MAY     9    19TT 


DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY 


EVANGELICAL  LUTHERAN  MTNISTERIUM 


PENNSYLVANIA  AND  ADJACENT  STATES. 


PROCEEDINGS  OF  THE  ANNUAL  CONVENTIONS 

FROM 

1748  to  1821. 

COMPILED    AND    TRANSLATED     FROM     RECORDS    IX    THE    ARCHIVES    AND    FROM 
THE    WRITTEN    PROTOCOLS. 


BOARD  OF  PUBLICATION 

OF   THE 

tarcul  Cnunril  of  tip  tongHiral  Interim  C4jnrr|j 

IN   NORTH   AMERICA. 


PHILADELPHIA 

1898. 


Copyright,  1898, 

BY 

BOARD  OF  PUBLICATION 

OF   THE 

General  Council  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church 
in  north  america. 


V 


PREFACE. 


At  the  one  hundred  and  forty-sixth  Convention  of  the  Ministerium  of 
Pennsylvania  anil  adjacent  States,  held  in  Philadelphia,  1893,  the  President 
in  his  official  report  suggested  that  steps  should  be  taken  to  secure  an 
accurate  and  reliable  history  of  the  Ministerium,  so  as  to  have  it  ready  for 
its  one  hundred  and  fiftieth  anniversary  in  the  year  1898.  The  Ministerium 
agreed  with  this  recommendation,  and  appointed  its  officers  and  the  Faculty 
of  the  Theological  Seminary  a  Committee,  to  lay  before  the  next  annual 
convention  a  plan  by  which  this  desirable  object  may  be  attained.  This 
committee  recommended  the  publication  of  a  volume  containing  the  Minutes 
of  the  Ministerium  for  the  first  hundred  years  of  its  history,  together  with 
such  historical  matter  as  is  now  contained  in  the  archives  and  other  sources 
of  information.  The  Ministerium,  after  some  discussion,  referred  the 
report  back  to  the  Committee  with  full  power  to  act.  An  editorial  Com- 
mittee was  appointed,  consisting  of  Professors  A.  Spaeth,  H.  E.  Jacobs  and 
G.  F.  Spieker,  and  all  questions  concerning  the  contents  and  preparation  of 
this  memorial  volume  were  referred  to  it.  Under  the  supervision  of  this 
Committee  the  work  of  collecting  and  preparing  the  material  for  the 
Memorial  Volume,  was  done  by  Mr.  W.  A.  Lambert,  a  student  in  our 
Theological  Seminary,  of  the  class  graduating  in  1898.  He  was  assisted  by 
Mr.  F.  E.  Cooper  who  translated  the  Protocol  of  the  Conventions  of  1814 
to  1820.  The  arduous  work  of  preparing  the  very  full  and  comprehensive 
indexes  was  done  by  Mr.  Charles  M.  Jacobs.  For  the  translation  of  the 
Constitution  in  force  in  1781,  we  are  indebted  to  the  Rev.  J.  W.  Early, 
who  published  it  in  the  Lutheran,  Church  Review  for  July,  1890. 

The  Editorial  Committee  had  intended  to  supplement  the  record  of  the 
Conventions  of  the  Ministerium  by  the  addition  of  valuable  documentary 
matter  from  the  Archives,  and  also  an  alphabetical  list  of  the  contents  of 
our  Archives.     But  as  the  work  progressed  it  was  found  that  the  simple 

iii 


iv  PREFACE. 

record  of  the  transactions  of  the  Ministerium  from  1748  to  1821,  the  year 
with  which  the  first  volume  of  the  written  Protocol  closes,  would  fill  a 
volume  of  about  550  pages.  And  beyond  this  limit  the  Committee  was  not 
willing  to  go  for  the  present.  But  it  is  hoped  that  the  Ministerium  will 
provide  for  the  continuation  of  this  work,  so  that  those  who  are  interested 
in  the  history  of  the  Mother  Synod  may  be  furnished  with  the  most 
important  documents  from  the  rich  treasures  of  our  Archives,  so  admirably 
arranged  and  preserved  through  the  efforts  of  our  late  Archivarius,  Dr. 
W.  J.  Mann. 

A  full  account  of  the  sources  from  which  the  material  of  this  volume  is 
drawn  will  be  found  on  page  1  sq.  With  the  exception  of  the  Hallesche 
Nachrichten  it  is  all  Manuscript  matter,  viz.,  the  diaries  and  correspondence 
of  our  venerable  Fathers,  the  Halle  Documents  (Halle  Doc.)  transcribed  at 
the  request  and  expense  of  our  Ministerium  through  Dr.  Germann  from  the 
Halle  Archives,  and  the  written  Protocol  which  begins  with  the  year  1781. 

The  volume  presents  a  full  and  exact  reproduction  in  the  English 
language  of  the  material  contained  in  these  sources  without  any  abridg- 
ment or  changes.  Even  the  spelling  of  names  and  localities  is  retained  as 
found  in  the  original  documents.  The  explanations  and  corrections  of  the 
Committee  are  inserted  in  brackets  or  in  foot-notes.  By  adhering  strictly 
to  this  principle  of  scrupulous  reproduction,  the  Committee  hor>ed  to  secure 
for  this  volume  the   character    of    an   exact   and   reliable   documentary 

chronicle. 

A.  Spaeth, 

H.  E.  Jacobs, 

G.  F.  Spieker 

Mount  Airy,  Philadelphia,  May  10(h,  1898. 


PART  I. 


1748-1780. 


CONVENTIONS. 


PAGE 

I.    Philadelphia,  1748 3 

II.    Lancaster,  1749 24 

HE.    Providence,  1750 27 

IV.    Philadelphia,  1751 33 

V.    Germantown,  1752 36 

VI.    Tulpehocken,  1753 41 

VII.    New  Hanover,  1754 41 

Vin-XII ,  1755-9       .    .  43 

XIII.  Providence,  1760 44 

XIV.  Lancaster,  1761 58 

XV.    Philadelphia,  1762 59 

XVI.    Philadelphia,  1763 68 

XVII,  XVIII 1764-5    .  83 

XIX.    Philadelphia,  1766 84 


PAGE 

XX 1767     ....  85 

XXI.    New  Hanover,  1768 86 

XXII.    Philadelphia,  1769 104 

XXIII.  Reading,  1770 121 

XXIV.  Philadelphia,  1771 128 

XXV.    Lancaster,  1772 129 

XXVI.    Philadelphia,  1773 139 

XXVII.    Lancaster,  1774 148 

XXVIII 1775    ....  149 

XXIX.    York,  1776 150 

XXX.     Philadelphia,  1777 151 

XXXI.    New  Hanover,  1778 154 

XXXII.    Tulpehocken,  1779 156 

XXXIII.    Providence,  1780 158 


SOURCES. 


(See  also  list  in  Hallcsclie  Nachrichten,  n.  e.  I.  264,  which  is  here  revised  and  enlarged.) 

1748.  Hallesche  Nachrichten,  o.  e.  76-79,  110-111,  284-288,  676;   n.  e. 

208-211  (Protocol)  ;  Schaum  Correspondence,  Kurtz's  Diary,  MS. 

1749.  Hallesche  Nachrichten,  o.  e.  329,  330,  404-406,  with  additions  in  n. 

e.  679  ;  o.  e.  78,  386,  676. 

1750.  Hallesche  Nachrichten,  o.  e.  352-354,  with  additions;  n.  e.  588,  etc; 

n.  e.  471-473  (Protocol) ;  o.  e.  122,  123  ;  516  f.,  676. 

1751.  Hallesche  Nachrichten,  o.  e.  436,  534,  n.  e.  688-689;  o.  e.  435,  438, 

458,  511,  625,  676. 

For  Conference  Dec.  17, 1751,  H.  N.,  o.  e.  511-512,  cf.  625  ;  n.  e. 
263. 

1752.  Hallesche  Nachrichten,  o.  e.  5G8  ff.  ;  n.  e.  689.     Halle  Doc.  I.  485. 

H.  N. ,  o.  e.  636,  655,  676. 

1753.  Hallesche  Nachrichten,  o.  e.  676.     Halle  Doc.  I.  500,  540. 

1754.  Hallesche  Nachrichten,  o.  e.  676,  662  f.,  661  ff.    Halle  Doc.  I.  500, 

499,  483.     H.  N.  o.  e.  646,  647,  688. 
1755-59.  Hallesche  Nachrichten,  851. 

1760.  Muhlenberg,  Letter  to  Gerock,  MS.    Hallesche  Nachrichten,  854- 

862.     Halle  Doc.  1216-1217,  MS. ;  H.  N.,  863,  948. 

1761.  Hallesche  Nachrichten,  865.     Muhlenberg  Diary,  May,  1761,  MS. 

H.  N.,  948.     Mann,  Life  and  Times  of  Muhlenberg,  385.     Muhlen- 
berg's Defence  against  Raus,  MS.,  Lancaster  Memorial  Vol.,  19,  20. 

1762.  Hallesche  Nachrichten,  916-920  and  MS.,  H.  N.,  954-961.     Halle 

Doc.  II.  1245.     Muhlenberg  Diary  MS.     H.  N.,  909,  1104. 

1763.  Hallesche  Nachrichten,  1122-1131,  MS.     Halle  Doc.  II.  1575-91. 

H.  N.,  1119. 

1764.  Hallesche  Nachrichten,  1161-62. 

1765.     


1766.  MS.  Muhlenberg  Diary,  1242,  1246. 

1767.     

1768.  MS.  Muhlenberg  Diary.     Halle  Doc.  HI.  2211-49. 

1769.  MS.  Muhlenberg  Diary.     Yorbericht  zur  12  Fortsetz.  \  2  (n.  e.  II.  p. 

265),  1245-48.     Halle  Doc.  2341  sqq.     H.  N.,  1283. 

1770.  Nova  Acta  Historica  Ecclesiastica,  XII.  337-351.    Halle  Doc.  III. 

2445-56. 

1771.  Hallesche  Nachrichten,  1338  f.    Nova  Acta  XH.  357. 

1772.  Muhlenberg  Diary,  MS. 
177.1.     Muhlenberg  Diary,  MS. 

1  1 


2  SOURCES. 

1774.  Muhlenberg  Diary,  MS. 

1775.  Muhlenberg  Diary,  MS. 

1776.  Muhlenberg  Diary,  MS. ,  Hallesche  Nachrichten,  1413. 

1777.  Muhlenberg  Diary,  MS.  1415. 

1778.  Muhlenberg  Diary,  MS. ;  Letter  to  Freylinghausen,  Oct.  31, 1778,  MS. 

Letter :  Nic.  Kurtz  to  Kunze,  Sept.  17,  1779,  MS. ;  Hallesche  Nach- 
richten, 1412  ff. 

1779.  Letter  of  Nic.  Kurtz  to  Kunze,  Sept.  17,  1779,  MS.;    Muhlenberg 

Diary,  MS.;  Hallesche  Nachrichten,  1420;  Lane.  Memor.  vol.62. 

1780.  Muhlenberg  Diary,  MS, 


FIRST   CONVENTION. 

1748. 


TENTH   SUNDAY  AFTER   TRINITY 

(August  15,  O.  S.;  August  20,  N.  B.,  1748,  Philadelphia). 


[Hallesche  Nachrichten,  n.  e.  pp.  150,  151 ;  o.  e.  7G,  77.] 

In  order  that  aid  might  be  given  to  several  congregations,  even  if 
only  one  preacher  could  be  sent,  it  has  been  thought  advisable  to  ordain 
to  the  ministry  Mr.  Kurtz  and  Mr.  Schaum,  who  until  now  have  been 
assistants,  since  they  have  been  very  faithful  in  the  matters  entrusted  to 
them  in  the  congregations,  and  have  gained  not  only  more  and  more 
experience  and  ability  for  the  ministry,  but  have  also  won  the  love  and 
confidence  of  the  congregations.  For  this  purpose,  as  well  as  for  the 
closer  union  of  the  preachers  and  of  the  United  Congregations,  and  for 
mutual  consultation  and  agreement  in  matters  concerning  all  the  congre- 
gations, a  meeting  of  the  preachers,  elders  and  deacons  of  all  the 
frequently  mentioned  congregations  was  arranged  to  be  held  in  Phila- 
delphia, August  15  [O.  S.],  26  [N.  S.],  1748. 

The  United  Congregations  were  at  first  only  the  three  congregations 
at  Philadelphia,  New  Hanover  and  Providence,  which  together  first 
applied  to  the  court  preacher  Ziegenhagen,  in  London,  and  to  Prof. 
Dr.  Francke,  in  Halle,  requesting  them  to  choose  and  call  for  them 
several  able  preachers.  When  the  first  preacher,  Mr.  Muhlenberg 
arrived  in  Pennsylvania,  the  fourth  congregation  at  German  town 
united  with  them,  and  later  Tulpehoeken  and  Lancaster,  with  Nordkiel 
and  Earlingstown  as  filials  of  the  latter  two ;  so  also  two  small  congre- 
gations at  Upper  Milford  and  Saccum  joined  the  two  in  Providence 
and  New  Hanover  as  filials.  The  delegated  elders  and  deacons  of  all 
these  congregations,  together  with  the  preachers,  appeared  at  this 
meeting,  which  was  further  attended  in  friendly  confidence  by  the 
Swedish  Provost,  Mr.  Sandin,  and  a  preacher  called  and  sent  by  the 
Honorable  Ministerium  at  Hamburg  upon  the  request  of  a  congnir.'i- 
tion  in  Jersey,  Mr.  Hartwig,  they  having  been  duly  invited.     This 

3 


4  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

more  definite  union  had  long  been  desired  and  requested  by  the  con- 
gregations, and  had,  in  fact,  been  attempted  by  a  meeting  held  five 
years  before ;  but  the  meeting  was  broken  up  by  the  opposition  of  the 
preacher,  Nyberg,1  and  was  without  results.  But  at  this  meeting 
everything  passed  off  peaceably,  and  all  the  congregations  mutually 
obligated  themselves  to  hold  together  as  one  congregation,  and  for  this 
purpose  to  assemble  once  each  year. 

II. 

[Letter  of  Pastor  Handschuh,  of  Lancaster,  to  the  congregation  at  York.] 

To  our  beloved  brethren  in  the  faith,  the  deacons  and  elders  and 
members  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  congregation  at  York : 

The  Gracious  Hand  of  our  God,  with  respect  to  our  brethren  in  the 
faith,  has  led  to  the  necessity  of  ordaining  Mr.  Kurtz  as  a  pastor, 
consecrating  with  proper  solemnities  the  church  at  Philadelphia,  and 
holding  in  connection  with  it  a  general  Church  convention.  The  time 
appointed  is  the  approaching  Tenth  Sunday  after  Trinity,  and  the 
succeeding  Monday,  and  probably  Tuesday.  To  these  peaceful  and 
public  solemnities  we -have  been  compelled  to  issue,  in  haste,  the  invita- 
tions to  the  church  councils,  deacons  and  elders  of  each  of  the  con- 
gregations connected  with  us.  We  ask  you,  therefore,  to  be  so  kind  as 
to  appoint  one  of  your  deacons,  and,  if  possible,  our  dear  brother,  Mr. 
Eichelberger,  and  to  send  him,  at  your  expense,  to  Philadelphia. 
Since  also  Mr.  Billmeier,  our  worthy  brother  in  the  Lord,  desires,  within 
the  next  three  weeks  to  make  a  trip  to  Philadelphia,  it  will  do  no  harm 
if  he  also  attend  the  meeting.  Kindly  invite  him,  therefore,  to  arrange 
to  accompany  Mr.  Eichelberger,  so  as  to  be  in  Philadelphia  by  next 
Saturday  evening.  If,  however,  his  business  prevent,  and  your  circum- 
stances so  permit,  you  might  defray  either  all  or  the  half  of  his  travel- 
ing expenses.  Confer  as  to  what  can  be  done,  without  any  great  loss  on 
your  part.  Leave  your  preacher,  our  beloved  Brother  Schaum,2  at  home, 
since  he  must  preach  next  Sunday  in  Connawaka,  and  cannot  travel  so 
far,  and  my  dear  brother  in  the  ministry  is,  for  other  reasons,  in  some 
uncertainty.  I  will  expect,  therefore,  to  meet  one  of  your  deacons,  and 
if  possible,  Mr.  Billmeier,  next  Saturday  evening  in  Philadelphia.  The 
Lord  bless  you  all.     May  He  prosper  every  effort  for  the  glory  of  His 

1  For  account  of  this  conference  in  May,  1744,  see  Acrelius'  History  of  New 
Sweden  (English  Translation),  pp.  242-254. 

2  Mr.  Schaum's  position  was  that  of  a  supply.  Up  to  preceding  May,  he  was 
school  teacher  in  Philadelphia,  and  had  been  sent  to  York  on  trial,  H.  N.,  new 
ed.,  p.  385.     He  was  not  ordained  until  1749,  lb.  p.  151. 


FIRST  CONVENTION,   1748.  5 

Name,  and  the  extension  of  His  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church,  and 
according  to  His  mercy,  give  your  delegates,  and  brethren,  a  safe  and 
pleasant  journey ! 

Mr.  Brunnholtz  would  have  invited  you  with  his  own  hand,  but  he 
thought  the  invitation  would  be  too  late.  I  have  thought  I  would  see 
if  it  were  .still  feasible,  because  of  the  especial  love  I  have  for  you,  my 
dear  brethren  in  the  faith.  I  remain  as  ever,  your  faithful  brother  and 
minister  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

John  Frederick  Handschuh. 

Lancaster,  August  8th,  1748. 

P.  S. — It  was  not  until  Saturday  afternoon,  that  I  received  this  infor- 
mation. 

III. 

[Past.  IIandschtjh's  Diary.     H.  N.,  n.  e.  172-3,  o.  e.  110-111.] 

Aug.  17  [N.  S.]  1748,  at  Lancaster,  Church  Council  met,  and  three 
of  its  members  and  one  deacon  were  chosen  as  delegates  to  attend  the 
church  consecration,  the  ordination  of  Mr.  Kurtz,  and  the  Synod  at 
Philadelphia.  To  the  others  the  attendance  was  left  free  according  to 
the  condition  of  their  external  circumstances.  In  Earltown  also  a 
deacon  was  appointed  to  go.  August  21,  early,  two  members  of  the 
Church  Council,  Mr.  Vigera  and  I  rode  away  towards  Philadelphia.  On 
the  22d,  in  the  afternoon  we  arrived  there  in  safety,  but  very  tired.  Found 
Brother  Brunnholtz  at  home,  where  Mr.  Hartwig  also  soon  joined  us. 
Aug.  23,  the  most  important  questions  from  all  parts  of  theology  were 
laid  before  Mr.  Kurtz  to  be  answered  in  writing.  August  24,  after  din- 
ner, Brother  Muhlenberg  with  his  wife  arrived  from  Providence.  Towards 
3  o'clock,  Mr.  Kurtz  handed  in  his  written  answers  to  all  the  questions 
given  him.  These  we  together  read  and  criticised  somewhat,  after 
which  he  was  orally  examined.  Afterwards  the  necessary  matters  con- 
cerning Mr.  Kurtz  were  talked  over  with  the  entire  Church  Council  of 
Tulpehocken.  August  25,  early,  towards  10  o'clock,  we  preachers  to- 
gether with  the  Church  Council,  elders  and  deacons  of  each  of  the  con- 
gregations united  with  us,  went  into  church  in  pairs.  Mr.  Muhlenberg 
consecrated  the  newly  built  church  at  Philadelphia,  and  the  consecration 
was  confirmed  by  a  brief  prayer  by  each  of  the  preachers  as  they  knelt 
about  the  altar.  I  preached  the  sermon  on  the  Gospel  for  the  Tenth 
Sunday  after  Trinity.  After  the  sermon,  Mr.  Hartwig  and  I  admin, 
istered  the  communion,  of  which  all  of  us  united  preachers  partook. 
In  the  afternoon,  Mr.  ITartwig  preached.  After  his  sermon  Mr. 
Kurtz  was  ordained.     Mr.  Muhlenberg  earnestly  and  impressively  de- 


6  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

livered  the  necessary  charge  to  him  ;  thereupon  the  hands  of  Muhlen- 
berg, the  Swedish  Provost,  Mr.  Sandin,  the  Swedish  preacher,  Mr. 
Magister  Nassmann,  Mr.  Hartwig,  Mr.  Brunnholtz  and  myself  were 
laid  upon  him,  and  then  we  all,  the  three  Reformed  preachers,  two  of 
whom  only  arrived  yesterday,  and  others  congratulated  him.  August 
26,  Mr.  Kurtz  preached.  After  the  sermon,  a  Synod  was  held  in  which 
everything  passed  off  in  an  orderly  and  peaceful  manner,  for  which  we 
cannot  sufficiently  thank  God. 

IV. 

[Diary  of  Past.  Kurtz,  Tulpehocken.] 

Aug.  12,  I  arrived  in  Philadelphia,  where  to  my  great  joy  I  met 
Pastor  Hartwig  from  New  York.  Toward  afternoon  ten  main  ques- 
tions, together  with  the  minor  questions  connected  with  them  were  laid 
before  me  in  writing,  for  me  to  answer,  which  I  did,  as  far  as  God  gave 
grace,  and  the  shortness  of  the  time  permitted. 

Aug.  13,  in  the  afternoon,  I.  was  examined  on  the  above  mentioned 
questions  by  Past.  Muhlenberg,  Hartwig  and  Handschuh.  In  the 
evening,  the  license  and  petition  for  a  regular  preacher  were  laid  before 
the  deacons  of  Tulpehocken  for  their  signatures,  and  I  signed  a  revers ; 
the  call  to  Tulpehocken  was  then  handed  to  me. 

Aug.  14.  To-day  the  church  in  Phil,  was  consecrated  by  P.  Muhlen- 
berg. P.  Handschuh  preached.  We  then  took  the  Communion.  In  the 
afternoon  at  3  o'clock  service  was  again  held.  Past.  Hartwig  preached 
on  Acts  20 :  18-21 :  "  What  a  teacher  has  to  do,  or  must  do,  if  he 
wishes  to  be  innocent  of  the  blood  of  his  hearers."  Then  my  duty  was 
denned,  and  I  was  consecrated  and  appointed  to  the  holy  ministry  by 
prayer  and  supplication,  by  P.  Muhlenberg,  in  the  presence  of  the 
Swedish  preachers.  P.  Muhlenberg  explained  the  meaning  of  the 
laying  on  of  hands,  certainly  a  difficult  and  important  office.  May  the 
gracious  and  merciful  God  keep  me  ever  mindful  of  this !  May  He 
assist  me,  and  grant  wisdom,  faithfulness,  watchfulness  and  untiring 
carefulness,  humility  and  purity,  not  only  that  I  may  save  my  own  soul, 
but  also  that,  with  all  faithfulness,  I  may  tend  those  entrusted  to  me, 
that  I  may  not  through  negligence  be  guilty  of  their  blood!  My  great 
unfitness  renders  this  office  difficult  for  me,  but  may  the  God  who  has 
called  me,  give  strength  and  fitness ;  for  this  reason  I  plead  humbly, 
"  Lord,  forsake  me  not,  and,  as  it  pleases  Thee,  bestow  upon  my  office 
Thy  blessing,  should  it  even  be  but  a  single  soul  that  I  may  save.  Thine 
shall  be  the  honor.     Amen." 

Aug.  15.  To-day  the  Synod  was  held ;  I  preached  on  the  text  given 


FIRST  CONVENTION,    1748.  7 

me,  Acts  26:  18,  from  which  I  showed  the  object  of  the  ministry:  1. 
In  what  it  consists  ;  2,  the  blesssed  gain  they  have  in  whom  it  is  attained. 

V. 

[Pastor  Muhlenberg's  Report,  174S.     II.  N.,  n.  e.  392-3  ;  o.  e.  284-6.] 

Aug.  14,  the  Tenth  Sunday  after  Trinity,  the  invited  preachers  and 
delegated  elders  of  our  United  Congregations  assembled  in  and  before 
Pastor  Brunnholtz's  dwelling,  and  went  to  the  church  in  procession. 
The  Swedish  Provost,  Mr.  Sandin,  and  Pastor  Hartwig  led ;  Pastor 
Brunnholtz  and  I  followed  with  the  Church  Councils  of  Philadelphia 
and  Germantown,  and  the  delegates  of  the  congregations  at  Providence, 
New  Hanover,  Upper  Milford  and  Saccum ;  after  these  came  Pastor 
Handschuh  with  the  delegates  from  the  city  of  Lancaster  and  Earl- 
town  ;  last  of  all  followed  Mr.  Kurtz  with  the  delegates  from  Tulpe- 
hocken  and  the  Nordkiel.  Mr.  Schaum  could  not  conveniently  attend 
with  his  delegates,  because  Yorktown  is  farthest  removed  and  the  invita- 
tion  was  not  received  early  enough  because  of  the  shortness  of  the  time. 
At  the  beginning  of  the  service  the  hymn  "  Komm  heiliger  Geid,  Ilerre 
Gott,  erfull  mit,"  etc.,  was  sung  antiphonally  and  in  harmony.  All  the 
preachers  present  stood  around  the  altar,  and  all  the  delegates  from  the 
congregations  formed  a  semicircle  on  the  organ  loft.  After  the  hymn, 
one  of  us  read  a  congratulation  written  in  English,  which  the  oldest  of 
the  Swedish  preachers  [Tranberg]  had  sent,  as  he  could  not  himself  be 
present.  Thereupon  one  of  us  made  a  short  address,  calling  to  mind 
that  the  foundation  stones  of  this  church  had  been  laid  with  the  inten- 
tion that  in  it  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  doctrine,  according  to  the 
foundation  of  the  Prophets  and  Apostles,  and  the  unaltered  Augsburg 
Confession  and  all  the  other  Symbolical  Books,  should  be  taught;  and 
recounting  under  what  sad  circumstances,  temptations  and  trials  (yea, 
under  how  many  buffetings  of  Satan)  God  and  so  many  worthy  friends 
for  God's  sake  hud  with  gentle  hand  sustained  us,  so  that  the  building 
had  been  brought  so  far,  though  with  difficulty.  Then  the  whole  church, 
and  its  parts,  the  pulpit,  the  baptismal  font,  and  altar  were  again  conse- 
crated to  the  use  of  the  only  saving  Word  and  the  Holy  Sacraments 
according  to  our  Symbolical  Books ;  and  the  Church  Board  ("  das  Kirchen 
Collegium  ")  of  Philadelphia,  had  to  promise  publicly  and  orally  that  they 
would  strive  with  God's  assistance  to  keep  the  church  (according  to  the 
foregoing  consecration)  unto  their  children  and  children's  children,  for 
the  aforenamed  purpose,  as  long  as  God  would  protect  it  from  fire, 
water  and  other  accidents.  Finally  the  fact  was  also  urged,  that  the 
church  was  oidy  an  external  structure,  and  had  been  built  to  the  end, 


8  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

that  through  it  the  hearts  of  all  hearers  should  be  prepared,  as  holy 
temples  of  the  Living  God.  After  this  address  several  stanzas  of  the 
hymn,"  Sei  Lob  mid  Ehr  dem  hbchsten  Gut,"  etc.,  were  sung.  Then  the 
preachers  and  delegates  knelt  and  with  hearty  and  earnest  prayer  com- 
mended to  the  Omnipresent  God  the  church  now  named,  St.  Michael's. 
Provost  Sandin  and  Mr.  Magister  Nasman  offered  prayer  in  Swedish, 
Pastors  Brunnholtz,  Hartwig,  Handschuh  and  Kurtz  in  German,  and 
the  contents  of  the  prayers  amounted  to  this,  that  in  this  house  the  Name 
of  the  Most  High  God  might  be  hallowed  through  pure  doctrine  and 
holy  life,  that  in  it  His  kingdom  might  be  advanced  and  His  will  done, 
and  thereby  the  holy  purpose  of  all  friends  and  benefactors  be  attained. 
After  this,  another  hymn  was  sung,  baptism  was  administered,  and  then 
a  very  edifying  and  forcible  sermon  was  preached  by  Pastor  Handschuh. 
After  the  sermon,  we  preachers  and  some  members  of  the  congregations 
partook  of  the  Lord's  Supper,  and  with  it  closed  the  service. 

In  the  afternoon,  we  again  went  to  the  church  in  procession.  Pastor 
Hartwig  preached  an  edifying  sermon  on  the  words,  Ezek.  33:  8. 
"  His  blood  will  I  require  at  thy  hand."  After  the  sermon,  Provost 
Sandin,  Pastors  Brunnholtz,  Hartwig,  Handschuh  and  I,  together  with 
the  candidate,  Mr.  Kurtz,  who  was  to  be  ordained,  took  our  places  about 
the  altar,  and  three  Reformed  preachers  were  witnesses.  The  delegates 
from  all  the  congregations  again  formed  a  semi-circle,  one  of  us  read  the 
formula  of  ordination,  offered  prayer  at  the  close,  and  with  the  other 
preachers  laid  his  hand  upon  the  candidate,  and  thereby  consecrated 
him  to  the  holy  ministry. 

August  15,  we  preachers  and  the  delegates  again  assembled  in  the 
church,  and  held  the  first  General  Conference  or  Synod,  as  it  is  to  be 
called,  the  transactions  of  which,  however,  as  yet  mostly  concerned  only 
the  external  organization. 

VI. 

Extract  and  Copy  of  the  General  Church  Protocol  kept  by  Rev. 
Brunnholtz  and  signed  by  those  present  ln  the  Evangelical  Luth- 
eran St.  Michael's  Church,  Philadelphia,  August  15, 1748.  Hallesche 
Nachrichten,  n.  e.  208-211. 

The  United  Congregations  held  a  meeting  at  which  were  present : 

Preachers  :  The  Swedish  Provost  Sandin,  Hartwig  from  New  York,  Muhlen- 
berg, Brunnholtz,  Handschuh  and  Kurtz. 

Trustee  of  the  Swedish  Church  :  Mr.  Koch. 

Delegated  Elders  and  Deacons  from  the  United  Congregations  :  From 
Philadelphia,  all  members  of  the  Church  Council  and  deacons  were  present. 

Germantown:  Michael  Eye,  John  Grothausen,  Anton  Hinkel  and  Deacon  Anton 
Gilbert. 


FIRST  CONVENTION,   1748.  9 

Providence:  Frederick  Marsteller,  Anton  Ileilman,  Ilieronymus  Haas. 

New  Hanover:  Jurg  Jurger,  Andreas  Kepner,  Carl  Beyer. 

Filial,  Upper  Milford :  Matthias  Ox,  Ileinricli  Hitter. 

Filial,  Saccum:  Balthes  Beil. 

Tulpeliocken  :  Balthes  Anspach,  Hannes  Immel,  Abraham  Lauk. 

Filial,  Nordkiel:  Andreas  Beyer. 

Lancaster :  I  >r.  Adam  Kuhn,  Christopher  Trenkel,  Ludwig  Stein,  Michael  Gross, 
Bernhard  Ilubele,  Micliael  Schreyak. 

Filial,  Earlingstown  :  Jacob  Leitner. 

To  New  York  across  the  Susquehanna,  where  Mr.  Schaum  is  stationed,  Mr. 
Handschuh  had  written,  but  on  account  of  the  shortness  of  the  time  and  the  length 
of  the  way,  no  one  was  here. 

The  hymn,  "  Da  siisse  Lieb,  schenk  uns  deine  Gimst,"  etc,  was  sung :  then  prayer 
was  offered. 

Muhlenberg  delivered  the  opening  address,  as  follows: 

This  union  has  long  been  desired,  but  until  now  it  has  not  been 
effected,  etc. 

It  is  known  that  five  years  ago  an  attempt  towards  this  was  made  in 
the  Swedish  Church.  But  one  of  the  preachers,  namely  Nyberg,  de- 
feated it,  because  he  said  the  Lancaster  people  had  already  prepared  an 
Order,  and  their  preacher  only  talked,  instead  of  preached  to  them. 
During  the  investigation  concerning  the  Moravians,  the  assembly  was 
broken  up,  the  matter  was  dragged  into  the  papers,  etc. 

A  twisted  cord  of  many  th reads  will  not  easily  break.  There  must 
be  unity  among  us.  Every  member  in  the  congregations  has  children. 
The  deacons  would  have  great  responsibility,  if  they  were  negligent  in 
helping  to  create  good  order,  especially  in  behalf  of  the  children,  who, 
if  they  "were  neglected,  would  help  to  condemn  their  parents. 

We  are  here  assembled  for  this  purpose,  and,  if  God  will,  we  shall 
assemble  yearly ;  this  is  only  a  trial  and  test.  We  preachers  who  are 
here  present,  not  having  wandered  hither  of  our  own  will,  but  called 
and  necessitated,  are  bound  to  give  an  account  to  God  and  our  con- 
science. We  stand  in  connection  with  our  Fathers  in  Europe.  We 
must  provide  not  only  for  ourselves,  but  also  for  our  posterity,  etc.,  etc. 

I.    EACH   CONGREGATION   WAS   ASKED   ON    WHAT   TERMS   IT    WAS    WITH 

ITS   PASTOR. 

The  Church  Council  of  Philadelphia  testified  that  they  were  well  sat- 
isfied with  their  Pastor  Brunnholtz,  that  he  exerted  himself  only  too 
much ;  they  wish  that  God  may  grant  him  good  health. 

The  Germantown  congregation  has  nothing  to  say  against  its  Pastor 
Brunnholtz. 

Providence  and  New  Hanover  are  very  well  satisfied  with  their  pastor, 
Mr.  Muhlenberg. 


10  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Tulpehocken  is  thankful  for  its  new.  preacher  Kurtz,  whom  the  whole 
congregation  desires.  They  ask  the  united  preachers  that  a  letter  of  in- 
troduction be  given  them  in  reference  to  him.  We  promised  it  to  them. 

Lancaster  and  Earlingstown  are  all  well  satisfied  with  Mr.  Handschuh, 
and  wish  that  he  may  be  appointed  as  their  regular  teacher  for  all  time. 

II.   THE   CONDITION    OF   THE   SCHOOLS. 

Brunnholtz  reports  concerning  his  schools.  In  Philadelphia  he  has 
out  of  love  for  the  common  welfare  had  a  school  held  in  his  house  for 
three  years  and  a  half;  has  supported  Mr.  Schaum  for  this  purpose; 
since  Easter  there  has  been  no  school,  because  there  was  neither  school- 
master, nor  the  necessary  support,  as  Mr.  Schaum  had  to  be  used 
elsewhere.  But  before  winter,  he  and  his  elders  will  do  all  in  their 
power. 

In  Germantown  he  now  has  two  school-masters.  The  one  is  Mr. 
Doling,  a  theological  student,  who  formerly  was  among  the  Moravians, 
but  left  them  several  years  ago.  He  keeps  school  in  the  heart  of  Ger- 
mantown and  has  many  children,  but  not  all  are  evangelical.  At  the 
extreme  end  of  Germantown,  there  has  been  a  school  for  almost  three 
years.  Near  Germantown,  there  has  also  been  a  school  of  some  twenty 
children.  But  it  is  now  broken  up,  because  of  the  lack  of  support  and 
a  school-master. 

Muhlenberg  reported  that  in  Providence  there  was  a  school  last  year, 
but  it  was  very  small ;  for  the  members  of  the  congregation  live  very  far 
apart.  The  elders  hope  to  be  more  zealous  in  the  future,  if  it  be  possible, 
to  bring  the  children  together. 

In  New  Hanover  there  is  a  fair  school.  Jacob  Loser  is  the  school- 
master.    The  congregational  treasury  contributes  somewhat  to  it. 

In  the  filials  Saccum  and  Upper  Milford,  there  is  no  school ;  if  the 
congregations  could  make  provision  for  a  school,  a  teacher  could  be 
had.  But  the  elders  answer  that  the  congregations  could  not  have  a 
school  together  on  account  of  the  distance.  The  proposition  was  made, 
whether  they  could  not  alternate  with  the  school-master  each  month. 
In  that  case  the  Synod  desires  an  early  answer  from  them. 

In  Tulpehocken  there  is  no  school.  Mr.  Kurtz  proposes  to  teach 
school  there  himself  this  winter,  if  he  have  time. 

In  Nordkiel,  a  filial  of  Tulpehocken,  the  congregation  is  scattered, 
one  part  belonging  to  Wagner,  one  part  to  Stover,  and  one  part  to  Mr. 
Kurtz,  and  therefore  no  provision  for  a  school  as  yet. 

Handschuh  and  his  elders  report  that  the  school  has  been  flourishing 
now  for  a  year,  since  Mr.  Schmidt  has  instructed  nearly  seventy  chil- 


FIRST  CONVENTION,   1748.  11 

dren,  in  which  woi*k  Mr.  Vigera  assisted ;  but  as  Mr.  Schmidt  has  de- 
cided to  go  to  Europe,  they  are  anxious  to  know  where  they  may  get 
another  in  his  place. 

In  Earlingstown  there  is  no  school. 

III.    CONCERNING   THE   CHURCH    CEREMONIES   THAT   HAVE    BEEN 
INTRODUCED. 

All  the  elders  of  the  congregations  testify  in  the  name  of  their  con- 
gregations, that  they  are  well  satisfied  to  use  the  same  ceremonies, 
since  the  preachers  are  united,  and  they  have  no  objections  to  our  agende, 
except  that  the  public  service  lasts  too  long,  especially  in  the  cold  win- 
ter. They  ask  that  it  be  made  briefer ;  they  leave  it  to  the  Ministerium, 
what  to  shorten  and  how. 

The  preachers  promise  to  strive  after  brevity,  and  before  they  sepa- 
rate, to  deliberate  and  decide  the  matter. 

IV.  WUY    OTHER   SO-CALLED    PREACHERS,  AS    STOVER,    STREITER,   AN- 

DREA  AND   WAGNER   WERE   NOT   INVITED. 

Mr.  Muhlenberg  shows  that  we  can  have  no  fellowship  and  close 
brotherhood  with  them,  for  1,  they  decry  us  as  Pietists,  without  reason  ; 
2,  they  have  not  been  sent  hither,  have  neither  an  inner  nor  an  external 
call ;  3,  they  are  not  willing  to  observe  the  same  Church  Order  that  we 
do  ;  each  wants  to  conform  to  the  ceremonies  of  his  home  ;  4,  six  years' 
experience  has  taught  Mr.  Muhlenberg  that  they  care  for  nothing  but 
their  bread  ;  5,  they  are  under  no  Consistorium,  and  give  no  account  of 
their  official  doings. 

V.  MR.  WAGNER  ACCUSES  MR.  MUHLENBERG  OF    HAVING    DRIVEN    HIM 

FROM  TULPEHOdkEN. 

The  Tulpehocken  elders  were  asked,  according  to  their  best  knowledge 
and  conscience,  to  inform  the  meeting  as  to  this  matter. 

The  Church  Council  of  Tulpehocken  answered  :  1,  Mr.  Muhlenberg 
did  not  force  himself  upon  them.  2,  The  congregation  and  its  elders 
have  since  1742  urgently  requested  Mr.  Muhlenberg  to  take  charge  of 
them;  3,  Mr.  Wagner  himself  resigned  in  Tulpehocken,  as  he  never 
succeeded  in  Tulpehocken,  and  the  divisions  in  the  congregation  con- 
tinually increased.  They  proposed  to  wait  to  see  how  matters  go  this 
year.     The  elders  are  exhorted  to  prayer. 

Whether  those  who  have  left  Evangelical  congregations,  and  again 
join  them,  but  refuse  to  acknowledge  themselves  members  of  the  con- 
gregation by  signing  their  names,  must  be  compelled  to  do  this,  and  if 
they  will  not  sign,  be  regarded  as  no  members? 


12  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

This  question  was  brought  up  by  Mr.  Handschuh,  because  the  people 
in  Lancaster  do  not  wish  to  receive  any  who  do  not  sign. 

The  meeting  thinks  that  brethren,  who  had  deserted,  should  be  mildly 
treated  at  first. 

Brunnholtz  produces  several  examples  of  such  persons,  who  formerly 
were  Moravians,  but  are  now  faithful  members  of  the  congregation, 
although  they  have  not  signed  the  congregation's  constitution. 

The  meeting  admonishes  the  Lancaster  people  to  act  wisely  in  the 
matter,  and  to  entrust  it  to  their  preacher. 

The  elders  from  Lancaster  abide  by  their  opinion,  and  will  let  the 
matter  rest  until  next  year. 

One  of  the  preachers  earnestly  before  God  exhorted  all  elders  who 
were  not  yet  entirely  converted,  to  be  converted  from  the  heart, 
because  otherwise  they  could  not  fill  their  office  as  they  ought,  and  too 
much  would  fall  upon  the  preacher  in  the  congregation. 

They  remained  silent. 

After  one  and  another  had  spoken,  and  since  this  was  only  arranged 
as  an  attempt  at  a  closer  union  and  a  trial  for  the  future,  the  meeting 
after  some  deliberation,  decided  that  our  annual  Synod  should  be  held 
alternately  in  the  two  cities,  Philadelphia  and  Lancaster.  Therefore  if 
God  will,  it  shall  be  in  Lancaster  next  year.  Two  elders  must  come 
from  each  congregation  at  the  congregation's  expense.  The  preachers 
appoint  the  time. 

Mr.  Hartwig  delivers  an  address  to  the  elders,  and  wishes  the  con- 
gregations all  prosperity.  Provost  Sandin  is  heartily  thanked  by 
Brunnholtz  in  the  name  of  the  congregations,  for  the  honor  of  his 
presence.  He  answers,  wishes  us  all  God's  blessing  and  grace,  and 
desires  to  be  a  member  with  us.  This  shall  serve  as  a  good  example  to 
him,  since  he  came  into  this  country  for  the  purpose  of  accomplishing  a 
similar  work  among  the  Swedes. 

The  Philadelphia  elders  thank  the  elders  for  their  presence  at  their 
church  consecration,  and  invite  them  to  partake  of  a  light  meal.  In 
closing,  "  Du  hochster  Troster,"  etc.,  was  sung. 

Signed  :  Muhlenberg,  Brunnholtz,  Handschuh,  Kurtz,  Henry  Schley- 
dorn,  in  the  name  of  the  others  from  Philadelphia,  Grothausen  from 
Germantown,  Marsteller  from  Providence,  Jurg  Jurger  from  New 
Hanover,  Christ.  Trenkel  from  Lancaster,  Abraham  Lauk  from  Tul- 
pehocken,  Andr.  Beyer,  Leitner,  Beil,  etc.,  etc. 


FIRST  CONVENTION,   1748.  13 

VII. 

Tiie  Church  Agenda  (Litorgy)  of  1748. 

[Begun  at  Providence,  April  27-29  (H.  N.,  n.  e.  p.  449),  and  com- 
pleted at  Philadelphia,  according  to  promise  made  the  lay  delegates,  as 
above  recorded.  The  translation  by  Dr.  C.  W.  Schaeffer  of  the  text  as 
prepared  by  Dr.  B.  M.  Schmucker  for  the  new  edition  of  H.  N.,  by  a 
comparison  of  two  MSS.,  is  herewith  given.  In  addition  to  the  two 
known  to  Dr.  Schmucker,  a  third  MS.,  that  of  Goering,  is  in  the  collec- 
tion of  the  Lutheran  Historical  Library  at  Gettysburg,  Pa.,  from  which 
Dr.  C.  A.  Hay  has  translated  extracts  in  his  "  Life  of  Goering,"  Phila- 
delphia, 1887.] 

[The  Agenda  of  174S  was  never  printed  ;  but  each  pastor  provided  himself 
with  a  written  copy  for  his  own  use.  Two  of  these  copies  came  into  the  hands  of 
the  late  Rev.  Dr.  J.  W.  Richards  of  Reading,  who  himself  was  a  descendant  of 
the  patriarch  Muhlenberg.  The  oldest  and  most  complete  copy  came  down  from 
the  hands  of  Pastor  Jacob  Van  Buskerk,  and  is  from  the  year  17G3.  It  has  the 
Chapters  and  paragraphs  numbered,  while  the  ritual  aud  liturgical  appointments 
are  complete.  The  other  copy  is  from  the  hand  of  Pastor  Peter  Muhlenberg, 
who  was  in  Dunmore  County,  Va.,  at  the  time  when  this  copy  was  written — that 
is,  in  1769.  Here  the  chapters  and  paragraphs  are  not  numbered.  The  directions 
for  the  several  divisions  are  not  given  in  full ;  but  the  liturgical  material  is  com- 
plete. 

What  we  here  furnish  in  print  is  taken  from  the  copy  of  Pastor  Van  Buskerk, 
and  varies  from  it  only  in  certain  unimportant  parts,  that  have  been  somewhat 
confused,  the  correction  being  supplied  from  the  copy  of  Peter  Muhlenberg. 
Notice  of  these  variations  is  always  given. 

AH  the  contents  of  the  Liturgy  are  given,  in  regular  order  ;  yet  only  the  more 
important  parts  are  printed  in  full.] 

CHAPTER  I. 

THE   MANNER   IN   WHICH   PUBLIC   WORSHIP   SHALL   BE   CONDUCTED   IN   ALL  OUR 

CONGREGATIONS. 

|I 

When  the  pastor  enters  the  church  the  service  shall  begin  with  the  singing  of 
the  hymn  "  Xun  bitten  wir  den  HeUUjen  Oeist,"  either  entire,  or  several  verses  of 
it ;  or  a  verse  of  the  hymn  "  Komm  Jleiliger  Geist,  Iterre  Oott." 

8  2. 

After  the  singing  of  the  hymn,  or  the  verse,  the  pastor  goes  to  the  altar,  turns 
his  face  to  the  congregation,  and  says  : 
Beloved  in  the  Lord  ! 
Thus  saith  the  High  and  Lofty  One  that  inhabiteth  eternity,  whose  Name  is 


14  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Holy  :  I  dwell  in  the  high  and  holy  place,  with  him  also  that  is  of  a  contrite  and 
humble  spirit,  to  revive  the  spirit  of  the  humble,  and  to  revive  the  heart  of  tbe 
contrite  ones  :  I  will  not  always  chide,  neither  will  I  keep  anger  forever  :  only 
acknowledge  thine  iniquity,  that  thou  hast  transgressed  against  the  Lord  thy  God. 

If  we  confess  our  sins,  He  is  faithful  and  just  to  forgive  us  our  sins,  and  to 
cleanse  us  from  all  unrighteousness. 

Accompany  me  therefore  in  making  confession  of  sins,  saying  : 

I,  a  poor  sinner,  confess  unto  God,  my  heavenly  Father,  that  I  have  grievously 
and  in  various  ways  sinned  against  Him  ;  not  only  by  outward  and  gross  sins,  but 
much  more  by  inward  blindness  of  heart,  unbelief,  doubt,  despondency,  impatience, 
pride,  selfishness,  carnal  lusts,  avarice,  envy,  hatred  and  malice,  and  by  other  sin- 
ful passions  which  are  naked  and  open  in  the  sight  of  my  Lord  and  God,  but 
which  I,  alas !  cannot  so  fully  understand.  But  I  do  sincerely  repent,  in  deep 
sorrow,  for  these  my  sins ;  and  with  my  whole  heart  I  cry  for  mercy  from  the 
Lord,  through  His  dear  Son  Jesus  Christ,  being  resolved,  with  the  help  of  the 
Holy  Ghost,  to  amend  my  sinful  life.     Amen. 

Lord  God  the  Father  in  heaven,  have  mercy  upon  us.  Lord  God  the  Son, 
Redeemer  of  the  world,  have  mercy  upon  us.  Lord  God  the  Holy  Ghost,  have 
mercy  upon  us  and  grant  us  Thy  peace.     Amen. 

§3. 

After  the  confession  the  hymn  "  Allein  Gott  in  der  Hoh  sei  Ehr"  shall  be 
sung. 

§4. 

During  the  singing  of  the  last  verse  the  pastor  goes  to  the  altar,  turns  his  face 
to  the  congregation,  and  says  : 

The  Lord  be  with  you. 
The  congregation  responds  : 

And  with  thy  spirit. 
The  pastor  says  : 

Let  us  pray. 

Then  he  prays  in  the  words  of  the  Collect  which  is  appointed  for  the  Sunday  or 
the  festival,  in  the  Marburg  Hymn-book.  After  the  Collect  the  lesson  from  the 
Epistle  shall  be  read,  being  introduced  with  the  following  words: 

Let  us  devoutly  listen  to  the  reading  of  the  lesson  for  this  day,  from  the,  etc. 

Then  shall  be  sung  the  principal  hymn,  selected  by  the  pastor,  from  the  hymns 
in  the  Marburg  Hymn-book — one  familiar  to  the  whole  congregation.  The  whole 
hymn,  or  only  a  part  of  it,  shall  be  sung,  as  circumstances  may  decide. 

2  6. 

After  the  singing  of  the  principal  hymn,  the  Gospel  lesson  shall  be  read,  being 
introduced  with  the  same  words  as  before  the  epistle.  After  the  Gospel  the  pastor 
repeats  devoutly  the  Creed,  in  verse,  "  War  glauben  all."  If  children  are  present 
to  be  baptized,  the  Gospel  and  the  Creed  are  omitted. 


FIKST  CONVENTION,   1748.  15 

§7. 

Before  the  sermon  the  hymn  "  Liebster  Jesu,  wir  sind  hier"  or  "Herr  Jesu 
Otrint,  Dich  zu  uns  wend,"  is  sung,  either  entire  or  in  part. 


Ordinarily  the  sermon  shall  be  limited  to  three-quarters  of  an  hour,  or,  at  the 
utmost,  to  one  hour.  If  the  pastor  is  moved  to  have  an  exordium  or  a  series  of 
supplications  before  he  begins  the  Lord's  Prayer,  he  is  at  liberty  to  do  so.  After 
the  Lord's  Prayer,  as  usual,  [the  Gospel  is  read?]  during  which  reading  the  con- 
gregation shall  stand.  The  sermon  being  concluded,  nothing  else  shall  be  read 
than  the  appointed  Church-prayer  here  following,  or  the  Litany  instead  of  it,  by 
way  of  change;  and  nothing  but  necessity  shall  occasion  its  omission.   .  .  . 

After  the  General  Prayer  petitions  for  the  sick  shall  follow,  in  case  request  has 
been  made  to  that  effect;  then  shall  follow  the  Lord's  Prayer,  and  then  whatever 
proclamation  and  notices  may  be  required.  When  all  is  done,  the  pastor  closes 
with  the  Yotum  : 

The  peace  of  God,  which  passeth  all  understanding,  keep  your  hearts  and  minds, 
through  Christ  Jesus,  unto  eternal  life.     Amen. 

2  9. 

[This  paragraph  is  taken  from  the  copy  of  Peter  Muhlenberg.] 
Then  a  hymn  shall  be  sung.     After  the  sermon  and  the  closing  hymn  the  pastor 
goes  to  the  altar  and  says  : 

"  The  Lord  be  with  you." 

Cong.  Resp.  "And  with  thy  spirit." 

Pastor.  "  Let  us  pray." 

Hold  us  up,  O  Lord,  Lord  our  God,  that  we  may  live;  and  let  our  hope  never 
make  us  ashamed.  Help  us  by  Thy  might,  that  we  may  wax  strong;  and  so  shall 
we  ever  delight  ourselves  in  Thy  statutes,  through  Jesus  Christ  Thy  dear  Son,  our 
Lord.     Amen. 

After  the  sermon  in  the  afternoon  shall  be  sung  the  hymn  "  Ach,  bleib  bei  uns 
Herr  Jesu  Christ."     Then  shall  follow 

The  Benediction. 

The  Lord  bless  thee  and  keep  thee, give  thee  peace,  in  the  Name  of  the 

Father,  and  of  the  ^on,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.     Amen. 
Then  a  verse  shall  be  sung  at  the  close. 

CHAPTER  II. 

OF    BAPTISM    AND  WHAT  IS   TO   BE   OBSERVED   AT   ITS   ADMINISTRATION. 

[This  agrees,  nearly  word  for  word,  with  the  printed  Liturgy  of  1786.] 
CHAPTER  III. 

OF   PROCLAIMING   THE   BANNS. 


16  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

CHAPTER  IV. 

OF  CONFESSION   AND   THE   HOLY   COMMUNION. 
§1- 

Ordinarily,  whenever  circumstances  admit  of  it,  the  Supper  of  the  Lord  shall 
be  administered  on  Christmas,  on  Easter,  and  on  Pentecost.  It  may  also  be  admin- 
istered at  other  times,  as  the  necessities  of  the  congregation  may  demand. 

12. 

The  pastor  shall  give  notice  from  the  pulpit  of  the  administration  of  the  Lord's 
Supper,  one  week  or  two  weeks  before  the  time  of  its  celebration.  To  this  notice 
he  shall  add  a  short  exhortation,  and  at  the  same  time  he  shall  inform  the  people 
as  to  the  day  when  they  shall  report  themselves  to  him  and  have  their  names 
recorded. 

§3. 

The  pastor  shall  keep  a  register  of  the  communicants,  which  is  to  continue  in 
the  care  of  the  congregation. 

14. 

In  case  the  pastor  should  know  that,  among  those  who  call  upon  him  to  report 
their  names  for  the  Holy  Communion,  there  is  one  or  more  who  are  living  in 
strife,  or  occasioning  public  scandal,  and  his  own  influence  should  not  be  sufficient 
to  remedy  the  evil,  he  may  call  the  vestry  of  the  congregation  together,  and  direct 
such  offenders  to  appear  before  them,  with  their  plea  and  answer. 

2  5. 

On  the  day  before  the  administration  of  the  Lord's  Supper,  and  at  the  hour 
appointed  by  the  pastor,  the  communicants  shall  all  assemble  in  the  church,  when 
the  following  order  shall  be  observed : 

1.  A  penitential  hymn,  or  a  hymn  suited  to  the  object  of  the  meeting,  shall  be 
sung. 

2.  After  the  hymn  the  pastor,  speaking  from  the  pulpit,  exhorts  the  people  to 
repentance  ;  and  in  the  application  makes  use  of  what  he  may  have  observed  and 
learned  about  their  spiritual  state  at  the  time  when  they  reported  their  names. 

3.  After  the  Lord's  Prayer  the  pastor  reads  aloud  the  names  of  the  communi- 
cants that  have  been  reported  to  him. 

4.  After  the  reading  of  the  names  a  verse  is  sung,  and  the  pastor  goes  before  the 
altar  and  receives  and  writes  the  names  of  those  persons  who,  for  satisfactory 
reasons,  could  not  report  themselves  before. 

5.  Then  the  pastor  calls  upon  the  male  communicants  first,  to  come  before  him, 
and  addresses  to  them  the  following  questions : 

I  now  ask  you  in  the  presence  of  the  omniscient  God,  and  upon  the  testimony 
of  your  own  conscience  : 

1,  2.  [The  first  two  questions  have  been  retained  unchanged  in  all  subsequent 
editions  of  the  Pennsylvania  Liturgy.] 

3.  I  ask  you:  Whether  you  are  fully  resolved,  with  the  help  of  God,  to  yield 
yourselves  entirely  to  the  gracious  direction  of  the  Holy  Spirit,  by  His  word  ;  in 
order  that  by  the  power,  the  help,  and  the  grace  of  the  same,  sin  may  be  subdued 


FIRST  CONVENTION,   1748.  17 

in  yon,  the  old  man  with  his  evil  deeds  and  corrupt  affections  be  weakened  and 
overcome  by  daily  sorrow  and  repentance,  and  that  you  may  win  a  complete  vic- 
tory over  the  world  and  all  its  allurements? 

If  this  be  your  serious  purpose,  confess  it  and  answer,  Yes. 

4.  Finally,  I  ask  you  :  Whether  any  one  of  you  yet  has,  in  his  heart,  any  com- 
plaint against  another. 

6.  After  these  questions  are  answered,  then  the  pastor  and  all  of  them  together 
kneel  down,  when  one  of  the  communicants  leads  in  repeating  the  confession  of 
sin  aloud,  the  pastor  himself  adding  a  few  words  of  prayer. 

[The  copy  of  Van  Buskerk  has  no  form  of  confession  for  this  act ;  Lut  the 
Muhlenberg  copy  supplies  the  following:] 

I,  a  poor  sinner,  confess  unto  God,  my  heavenly  Father,  that  I  have  grievously 
and  in  various  ways  sinned  against  Him, not  only  by  outward,  etc. ;  .  .  .  with  the 
help  of  the  Holy  Ghost  to  amend  my  sinful  life.  Amen.  [The  same  as  under 
\  2.] 

7.  The  pastor  pronounces  the  absolution  in  the  following  words: 

Upon  this  confession  of  sin  which  you  have  now  made,  I,  a  minister  of  my  Lord 
Jesus  Christ,  hereby  declare,  to  all  those  who  are  truly  penitent  and  heartily  believe 
in  Jesus  Christ,  and  are  sincerely  resolved,  in  heart,  to  amend  their  lives  and  daily 
to  grow  in  grace,  to  them  I  declare  the  forgiveness  of  all  their  sins ;  in  the  Name 
of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.     Amen. 

But,  on  the  other  hand,  I  declare  to  all  who  are  impenitent,  to  the  hypocritical 
as  well  as  the  openly  ungodly,  and  I  testify,  by  the  Word  of  God,  and  in  the  name 
of  Jesus,  that  so  long  as  they  continue  in  their  impenitent  state,  loving  sin  and 
hating  righteousness,  God  will  not  forgive  their  sins,  but  retains  their  sins  against 
them,  and  will  assuredly  punish  and  condemn  them  for  their  iniquities,  in  the 
end,  except  they  turn  to  Him,  now,  in  this  day  of  grace  ;  except  they  sincerely  for- 
sake all  their  evil  ways,  and  come  to  Christ  in  true  repentance  and  faith  ;  which 
we  heartily  pray  they  may  do.     Amen. 

Then  the  Service  shall  close  with  the  singing  of  a  verse,  and  the  Benediction 
pronounced  by  the  pastor. 

[Here  a  leaf  is  mi&siug  from  the  Van  Buskerk  copy,  that  retained  all  of  the 
Retentio,  after  the  words  "  open  ungodly,"  aud  the  beginning  of  the  order  for  the 
Holy  Communion.  The  missing  portions  are  supplied  from  the  Muhlenberg 
copy.  The  Van  Buskerk  copy,  which  is  defective  in  Sections  6  and  7,  begins 
again  in  Section  8.] 

THE    HOLY   COMMUNION. 

The  minister  goes  before  the  altar,  places  the  bread  and  the  wine  in  order,  then 
turns  to  the  congregation  and  says : 
Mi nister.  The  Lord  be  with  you. 
Congregation.  And  with  thy  spirit. 
Minister.  Let  us  lift  up  our  hearts. 
Congregation.   We  lift  them  up  unto  the  Lord. 
Minister.   Holy,  Holy,  Holy  is  the  Lord  of  Sabaoth. 
Congregation.  The  whole  earth  is  full  of  His  glory. 


Before  the  Communion  the  pastor  addresses  the  communicants  in  the  exhorta- 
tion here  following. 
2 


18  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Beloved  in  the  Lord  ! 

[Here  follows  Luther's  Paraphrase  of  the  Lord's  Prayer,  and  his  exhortation  to 
the  sacrament,  exactly  as  it  occurs  in  his  "Deutsche  Messe"  (German  Commu- 
nion) of  1526.] 

The  pastor  turns  his  face  to  the  bread  and  wine,  and  repeats  the  Lord's  Prayer 
and  the  Words  of  Institution. 
Let  us  pray :  Our  Father,  etc. 
Our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  in  the  night  ...  in  remembrance  of  me. 

§10. 

Then  the  pastor  turns  to  the  congregation  and  says : 

Now  let  all  those  who  are  found  to  be  prepared,  by  the  experience  of  sincere 
repentance  and  faith,  approach,  in  the  name  of  the  Lord,  and  receive  the  Holy 
Supper. 

§U. 

In  giving  the  bread  the  pastor  shall  say  these  words  : 

Take  and  eat :  this  is  the  true l  Body  of  your  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  given  unto 
death  for  you ;  may  this  strengthen  you  in  the  true  faith  unto  everlasting  life. 
Amen. 

In  giving  the  cup  : 

Take  and  drink  ;  this  is  the  true  Blood  of  your  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  of  the  New 
Testament,  shed  for  you  for  the  forgiveness  of  your  sins,  unto  everlasting  life. 
Amen. 

§12. 

The  communion  being  finished,  the  pastor  shall  say  : 

Oh  give  thanks  unto  the  Lord,  for  He  is  good  :  Hallelujah. 

The  congregation  responds  : 

And  His  mercy  endureth  forever  :  Hallelujah. 

Then  the  pastor  says  the  following  collect : 

We  give  Thee  thanks,  O  gracious  God,  our  Heavenly  Father,  because  Thou  hast 
refreshed  us  with  these  Thy  salutary  gifts ;  and  we  humbly  beseech  Thee  to 
strengthen  us,  through  the  same,  in  faith  toward  Thee,  and  in  fervent  love  toward 
one  another,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord  and  Saviour.     Amen. 

Receive  the  blessing  of  the  Lord. 

The  Lord  bless  thee  and  keep  thee,  etc.     Amen. 

In  the  Name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the  Holy  Ghost.     Amen. 

VIII. 

Examination  and  Ordination  of  Catechist  Kurtz. 

We,  the  undersigned,  on  the  twelfth  of  August,  submitted  to  Catechist 
Kurtz,  the  following  questions,  to  be  answered  in  writing,  as  a  prepara- 
tion for  the  examination  to  be  held  the  next  day : 

'The  insertion  of  "  true"  was  a  concession  to  Revs.  Wagner,  Stover,  etc.  See 
Mann's  "  Life  of  Muhlenberg,"  pp.  185  sqq. 


FIRST  CONVENTION,  1748.  19 

I.  N.  J.  C. 

I.  The  candidate  is  to  prepare  a  sketch  of  his  life,  giving,  in  as  brief 
;i  compass  us  possible,  an  account  of  its  chief  events  and  of  his  academ- 
ical studies.  As  this  may  readily  become  too  extensive,  it  will  suffice, 
if  he  briefly  narrate:  1.  His  first  awakening ;  2.  How  God  furthered 
the  work  of  grace  in  his  heart;  3.  What  moved  him  to  study  for  the 
holy  ministry,  and  where,  in  what  branches  and  under  whose  direction, 
he  has  attempted  to  prepare  himself. 

II.  What  theological  books  does  he  have  ? 

III.  Mention  the  Chief  Divisions  of  Theology,  and  answer  the  fol- 
lowing questions  concerning — 1.  What  is  Theology?  2.  A  general 
answer  to  the  question :  What  is  Sin,  and  a  more  specific  statement  as 
to  what  is  Original  Sin  ?  3.  Describe  the  Sin  against  the  Holy  Ghost ;  4. 
Give  an  extended  description  of  the  Justification  of  the  Sinner  before 
God,  and  confirm  it  with  proof  texts;  5.  What  is  Saving  Faith?  6. 
Whether  and  in  how  far  are  good  works  necessary  to  Salvation  ?  7.  What 
is  Sanctification,  and  how  is  it  promoted  ?  8.  In  how  far  is  Death  the 
Wages  of  Sin  (a),  in  the  converted,  (6),  in  the  unconverted  ? 

IV.  Whether  our  Evangelical  Lutheran  is  the  only  justifying  and  sav- 
ing faith,  and  upon  what  scriptural  foundations  does  it  rest? 

V.  Give  an  exegetical  explanation  of  Luke  16:  8. 

VI.  Prepare  from  this  the  theme  and  skeleton  of  a  sermon,  with  ap- 
plication. 

VII.  Describe  the  true  character  and  duties  of  an  evangelical 
preacher. 

VIII.  How  an  evangelical  preacher  should  conduct  himself  towTards 
the  dying  who  confess  that  they  are  sinners  in  general,  without  confess- 
ing any  special  sin  ? 

IX.  Whether,  and  in  how  far  evangelical  preachers  can  and  should 
be  in  subordination  to  one  another? 

The  answers,  with  the  questions  and  proofs,  to  be  neatly  written  out, 
and  to  be  ready  for  submission  by  three  o'clock  to-morrow  afternoon. 
All  for  the  glory  of  God,  and  the  good  of  the  Church ! 

Peter  Bkunnholtz. 

John  Frederick  IlANDscnun. 

John  Christopher  Hartwig. 

H.  Muhlenberg  had  not  yet  arrived. 

IX. 

[Of  the  answers  to  the  questions,  the  following  on  the  confessional  basis 
is  of  especial  interest.] 


20  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Whether  our  Evangelical  Lutheran  Doctrine  is  the  only  Saving 

Doctrine. 

I  hesitate  to  say,  yea,  I  dare  not  say,  that  those,  who  are  outside  of 
this  doctrine,  who  by  their  name  fail  to  confess  this  doctrine,  should  be 
condemned. 

Yet,  to  the  question,  whether  our  Evangelical  Lutheran  doctrine  be 
the  only  justifying  and  saving  doctrine,  I  reply :  Yea  and  Amen,  and 
this  I  prove  by  the  following : 

1.  Because  it  teaches  the  Word  of  God  in  its  truth  and  purity. 

2.  Because  we,  as  the  children  of  God,  lead  holy  lives  in  accordance 
with  it. 

It  is  the  first  proof  which  is  of  importance  to  me  here. 

With  us  the  Word  of  God  is  taught  in  its  truth  and  purity ;  therefore, 
our  doctrine  is  the  only  saving  doctrine.  Now  I  must  prove  the  first 
sentence : 

Those  principles  or  articles  of  a  doctrine,  which  clearly  and  plainly 
have  their  foundation  in  the  Word  of  God  and  again,  which  are  articles, 
necessary  to  salvation,  are  the  most  correct  and  best. 

Now,  since  the  fundamental  articles  of  the  Lutheran  doctrines  clearly 
and  plainly  have  their  foundation  in  the  Word  of  God,  and  since  they 
are  necessary  to  salvation,  they  must  be  the  most  correct  and  the  best. 

If  we  examine  our  Symbolical  Books,  which  contain  the  principles  of 
our  doctrine  or  religion,  we  will  find  that  they  are  taken  from  the  Word 
of  God  and  substantiated  by  the  Word  of  God.  Consequently  they  be- 
long to  the  class  of  symbols,  which  set  forth  the  correct  divine  truth. 
The  passage,  Acts  9  [4],  "  for  there  is  none  other  name,"  is  firmly  estab- 
lished with  us. 

The  passage,  "  Repent  ye  and  believe  the  Gospel,"  is  also  not  less 
firmly  established  with  us,  and  the  third  and  ninth  chapters  of  the 
Epistle  to  the  Romans  are  duly  recognized. 

The  doctrine  concerning  the  Person,  the  Offices  and  the  States  of  our 
Redeemer,  is  also  clearly  taught  among  us. 

X. 

From  "  Revers  "  of  John  Nicholas  Kurtz.     [H.  N.,  n.  e.,  p.  135]. 

I  acknowledge  myself  bound  to  carefully  fulfill  the  following  con- 
ditions of  my  call,  even  though  not  expressly  mentioned  in  the  written 
call: 

I.  To  show  the  respect  to  the  Rev.  Pastors  of  the  United  Congrega- 


FIRST  CONVENTION,  1748.  21 

tions,  to  which  I  was  bound  in  the  certificate  of  the  call,  given  me  by 
Dr.  Francke  at  Halle,  May  21,  1744. 

II.  To  regard  my  congregation  as  only  a  part  of  the  United  Congre- 
gations. 

III.  To  teach  in  my  congregation  nothing,  whether  publicly  or 
privately,  but  what  harmonizes  with  the  Word  of  God  and  the  Confes- 
sions of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church,  and,  to  this  end,  to  study 
them  diligently. 

IV.  To  introduce  no  other  ceremonies  in  public  worship,  and  the 
administration  of  the  sacraments,  than  those  introduced  by  "  the  College 
of  Pastors  "  of  the  United  Congregations,  and  to  use  no  other  formulas 
than  those  which  they  approve. 

V.  To  undertake  nothing  important,  either  alone  or  in  connection 
with  the  Church  Council,  without  communicating  with  "  the  College  of 
Pastors,"  and  receiving  their  opinion,  and  acquiescing  in  their  advice. 

VI.  To  give  an  account  of  my  official  acts,  either  orally  or  in  writ- 
ing, as  the  "  Reverend  College  of  Pastors  "  may  require. 

VII.  To  keep  a  diary  and  journal  and  enter  therein  my  official  acts, 
and  all  notable  incidents. 

VIII.  If  they  call  me  away,  to  accept  the  call,  and  not  resist. 
These  items,  and  everything  naturally  implied  therein,  I  acknowledge 
as  the  conditions  of  my  call,  and  my  obligation  thereto.  I  also  de- 
clare to  every  one  that,  if  I  intentionally  act  against  any  one,  or  more, 
or  all  of  these  particulars,  I  will  thereby  forfeit  all  the  privileges  to 
which  my  call  entitles  me,  and  will  acknowledge  myself,  as,  by  such 
unfaithfulness,  deserving  due  punishment. 

In  testimony  whereof,  I  attach  my  hand  and  seal,  in  the  presence  of 
the  undersigned  witnesses. 

John  Nicholas  Kurtz. 
"Witnesses  : 

Abraham  Lauck. 

John  Nicholas  Schwingel. 

Philadelphia,  August  13, 1748. 

XL 

From   a  Letter  to  the  Synod  from  the  Tuxpehocken   Congregation, 

[II.  N.,  n.  e.,  pp.  139  sq.]. 

The  reasons  that  move  us  to  have  recourse  to  the  "Reverend  Col 
lege  of  Pastors,"  in  regard  to  matters  pertaining  to  our  souls,  and  to  call 
them  as  our  pastors,  are.  among  others,  chiefly  the  following : 

1.  Their  true,  regular,  and,  consequently,  divine  call. 


22  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

2.  The  good  testimonies  given  by  the  spiritual  fathers  and  public 
teachers  of  our  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church  iu  Europe,  who  have 
shone,  for  many  years,  as  lights  in  the  entire  Protestant  Church, 
because  of  their  zeal  for  the  maintenance  of  the  evangelical  doctrine 
according  to  the  Unaltered  Augsburg  Confession,  and  their  correct  life 
in  accordance  with  the  same,  and  the  entire  Word  of  God,  from  which 
it  is  taken.  Of  these,  especially  important  are  the  testimonies  of  those 
of  the  University  of  Halle,  in  Saxony,  which  is  like  a  city  set  upon  a 

hill.  .  .  . 

3.  We  are  moved  also  by  your  steadfastness  in  the  confession  and 
doctrine  of  the  Unaltered  Augsburg  Confession,  which  is  violently 
attacked  here,  partly  by  false  brethren,  partly  by  fanatical  sects, 
partly  by  Epicureans,  as  well  as  by  others.  In  these  attacks  you 
have  stood  not  only  for  your  own  persons,  but  also  have  kept 
together,  collected  and  increased  the  members  of  the  Evangelical 
Lutheran  Church.     This  is  said  to  the  glory  of  God  who  aided  you. 

4.  We  are  impressed  by  your  faithful  administration  of  your  office, 
whereby  you  have  turned  many  from  darkness  to  light  and  from  the 
power  of  Satan  to  God,  and  retained  them. 

5.  Your  ministerial  gifts  and  prudence,  and  also  your  experience 
and  your  ability  to  accommodate  yourselves  to  the  peculiar  circum- 
stances of  this  country. 

6.  This  union  encourages  us  with  the  hope  that  the  blessings  experi- 
enced in  the  foundation  may  be  perpetuated  for  us  and  our  posterity. 

7.  The  fidelity  and  carefulness  you  have  shown  in  the  administration 
of  your  office,  not  only  in  your  own  United  Congregations,  but  also  in 
others  that  have  resorted  to  you. 

These,  and  still  other  circumstances,  have  moved  us,  in  view  of  our 
need,  to  place  confidence  in  you,  reverend  sirs,  next  to  that  which  we 
have  in  God ;  and  the  desire  has  arisen  that  we  may  be  incorporated 
with  the  United  Congregations  in  Pennsylvania,  and  be  recognized  as 
brethren  and  members  of  a  particular  congregation  of  the  Evangelical 
Lutheran  Church,  and  thus  share  in  the  pastoral  care  of  the  entire 
"  College  of  Pastors  "  of  the  United  Congregations. 

We  hereby  most  publicly  and  solemnly  petition,  recognize  and  de- 
clare all  the  pastors  of  the  United  Congregations  of  Pennsylvania,  as 
our  pastors  and  shepherds,  and  fully  authorize  them  to  care  for  the 
interests  of  our  souls  in  whatsoever  way,  and  through  what  means,  and 
as  long  as  they  may  wish.  We  promise,  furthermore,  to  recognize  the 
aforesaid  "  College  of  Pastors  "  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  congrega- 
tions in  Pennsylvania,  as  a  true  and  regular  Presbytery  and  Minis- 
terium,  and,  particularly,  as  our  chief  pastors,  and  to  respect  them  as 


FIRST  CONVENTION,  1748.  23 

such.  Nor  will  we  do,  determine  or  change  anything  in  church  mat- 
ters, without  their  previous  knowledge  and  consent.  Consequently, 
not  only  will  we  have  no  dealings  with  any  other  preacher,  but  we  will 
not  undertake  anything  important,  even  in  connection  with  the 
preacher  whom  they  send,  unless  said  undertaking  be  previously  known 
and  approved  by  them.  Whatever  said  "College  of  Pastors"  deter- 
mines in  regard  to  matters  pertaining  to  us  and  our  congregation,  when 
due  information  is  given,  we  will  accept,  and,  as  far  as  we  are  able, 
wiU  fulfill. 

Furthermore,  we  promise  that  whatever  minister  is  sent  by  the 
"  College  of  Pastors "  we  will  acknowledge  and  respect  and  obey,  as 
our  regular  and  divinely-called  pastor,  as  long  as  said  "  College  of 
Pastors "  deem  it  advisable  for  him  to  remain  with  us.  Nor  will  we 
object,  if,  for  important  reasons,  they  agree  to  call  him  elsewhere,  and 
supply  his  place  with  another  pastor.  Said  successor  will  be  received 
with  equal  love  and  fidelity.  We  also  promise  that  should  any  mis- 
understanding or  division  occur,  which  may  God  forbid!  either  between 
the  congregation,  or  a  part  thereof,  and  the  pastor ;  or  between  the 
members  of  the  congregation,  wfe  will  x-eport  the  same  to  the  "  College 
of  Pastors,"  await  the  result,  and  acepjiesce  in  their  decision. 


SECOND   CONVENTION. 

1749. 


SECOND  SUNDAY  AFTER  TRINITY 

(June  4,  in  Lancaster). 

I. 

[Pastok  Muhlenberg's  Report  of  his  Official  Transactions,  1749.     Hal- 
lesche  Nachrichten  (n.  e.)  492-3.     (o.  e.  329-330.)] 

The  congregation  at  Yorktown,  in  Pennsylvania,  where  Mr.  Schaum 
had  been  stationed  up  to  this  time,  earnestly  requested  us  to  ordain  their 
preacher,  because  Valentine  Kraft  and  his  followers  were  intimating 
there  that  Mr.  Schaum's  official  acts  were  not  valid.  Since  we  already 
had  provisional  permission  from  our  most  worthy  Fathers,  we  appointed 
the  fourth  of  June  for  the  ordination,  and  the  fifth  for  the  General  Con- 
ference in  the  city  of  Lancaster. 

....  June  3,  we  examined  Mr.  Schaum,  completed  the  papers  relat- 
ing to  the  call,  (vocation)  and  had  them  signed  by  those  deacons  and 
elders  from  Yorktown  who  were  present. 

June  4,  the  Second  Sunday  after  Trinity,  all  the  preachers  and  dele- 
gates of  the  United  Congregations  assembled  in  front  of  and  in  Pastor 
Handschuh's  dwelling,  and  while  the  bells  were  ringing,  went  to  the 
church  in  procession  in  the  following  order:  1.  Pastor  Handschuh  and 
his  church  council ;  2,  Pastor  Brunnholtz,  Mr.  Weiser  and  the  delegates 
from  Philadelphia  and  Germantown ;  3,  Pastor  Muhlenberg  and  the 
delegates  from  New  Hanover  and  Providence ;  4,  Deacon  Kurtz  and 
the  delegates  from  Tulpehocken  and  Nordkiel ;  5,  Mr.  Schaum  and  his 
church  council  from  Yorktown.  My  colleagues  made  me  preach  on  the 
Gospel  of  the  Great  Supper.  After  the  sermon,  all  present  formed  a 
semi-circle  around  the  altar,  and  were  our  witnesses,  and  prayed  with 
us,  while  we  ordained  Mr.  Schaum.  Afterwards,  we  preachers,  together 
with  several  members  of  the  congregation,  received  the  Holy  Commu- 
nion, and  with  it  closed  the  morning's  service.  At  the  afternoon  service, 
Mr.  Kurtz  preached.  In  the  evening  about  six  o  clock,  I  had  to  preach 
a  sermon  in  our  church  to  the  English  people,  because  they  have  no 
preacher,  and  greatly  desired  such  service. 

June  5,  all  the  preachers  and  delegates  again  went  to  the  church. 
After  Mr.  Schaum  had  preached,  they  held  a  conference  concerning 
24 


SECOND  CONVENTION,   1749.  25 

the  improvement  of  our  United  Evangelical  Congregations.  The 
congregations  at  Raritan,  Upper  Milford  and  Saccum,  had  sent  no 
representatives,  because  they  are  too  remote,  but  sent  letters,  which 
were  read  in  the  conference. 

II. 

[Pastor  Handschuh's  Diary.     H.  N.  (n.  e.)  538-9.     (o.  e.)  404-C] 

June  1.  .  . .  Very  late  Rev.  Streiter  arrived  with  a  deacon  from  Earl- 
town,  to  complain  to  me  of  his  need.  He  desired  to  plead  the  many 
advantages  to  be  gained  by  his  being  ordained  by  us,  and  to  enter  our 
fellowship.  The  ordination  oilered  him  by  Andrea,  Stover,  and  Wag- 
ner, he  did  not  want. 

June  2.  Since  the  ordination  of  Mr.  Schaum  as  preacher  at  York 
is  appointed  for  the  coming  Sunday,  and  the  general  meeting  of  Synod 
here  at  Lancaster  for  the  following  Monday,  my  dear  colleagues,  Mr. 
Muhlenberg  and  Mr.  Brunnholtz,  with  their  companion,  Mr.  Sehrenck, 
an  excellent  candidate  of  law,  arrived  this  afternoon.  Towards  evening, 
Mr.  Schaum  also  arrived  from  York.  The  whole  evening,  after  the  people 
gave  us  rest,  was  spent,  till  a  very  late  hour,  in  necessary  conferences. 

June  3.  In  the  afternoon  we  went  to  preparatory  services.  Mr. 
Brunnholtz  preached  the  sermon,  and  I  delivered  the  exhortation  to 
repentance  and  confession.  Among  the  twenty  who  confessed,  there 
was  one  man,  at  whose  request,  and  in  whose  name,  I  had  to  ask  the  con- 
gregation to  pardon  his  former  scandalous  life.  Nor  was  he  satisfied 
that  I  had  done  this,  but  he  also  did  it  in  his  own  words  with  many 
tears.  Whereupon  he  was  again  earnestly  exhorted  by  me,  and  he 
faithfully  promised  that  he  would,  by  the  grace  of  God,  thoroughly  re- 
form his  life.  About  five  o'clock,  wo  preachers  entered  upon  an  exam- 
ination of  our  former  helper,  Mr.  Schaum,  which  we  conducted  in 
turn,  amid  many  useful  reminiscences.  After  it  was  finished,  we  had 
the  ciders,  deacons,  and  other  members  of  the  congregation  at  York  on 
the  Cati lores  who  were  present,  come  before  us,  and  talked  with  them 
about  Mr.  Schaum's  call  and  ordination.  Pastor  Muhlenberg,  being  the 
oldest,  carried  on  most  of  the  conversation.  The  York  people  then  ex- 
tendi <1  their  call  to  Mr.  Schaum  (by  which  they  also  called  us  ordained 
preachers  to  be  their  rightful  teachers),  after  which  Mr.  Schaum's 
"revers"  was  read  and  signed  by  him,  and  his  church  members  as  wit- 
nesses, in  accordaneo  with  which  he  promised,  with  the  giving  of  his 
hand,  to  conduct  himself  faithfully  and  obediently  as  our  assistant. 
Finally  the  call  to  York,  signed  by  us  four  [Muhlenberg,  Brunnholtz, 
Handschuh  and  Kurtz],  was  extended  to  him,  and  with  hearty  con- 
gratulations, this  work  was  ended  at  a  late  hour. 


26  DOCUMENTARY   HISTORY. 

On  the  Second  Sunday  after  Trinity,  I  baptized  a  child,  and  Mr. 
Muhlenberg  preached.  After  the  sermon,  he  also  delivered  the  address 
to  the  one  to  be  ordained,  explained  to  him  his  official  duties,  etc.  Mr. 
Brunnholtz  offered  prayer,  and,  after  the  prayer,  we  consecrated  him 
[Schaum]  with  the  laying  on  of  hands.  During  the  Ordination  Ser- 
vice, all  of  the  delegates  of  church  councils,  and  deacons  of  the  con- 
gregations united  with  us,  and  stood  about  the  altar  as  witnesses.  In  the 
afternoon,  Mr.  Kurtz  preached  an  edifying  sermon.  About  five  o'clock 
in  the  evening,  Mr.  Muhlenberg  again  preached  to  the  English  in  their 
language. 

June  5,  at  half-past  eight,  all  the  members  of  church  councils  and 
deacons  of  the  United  Congregations  assembled  before  our  dwelling,  with 
whom  we  went  to  the  church,  two  and  two,  each  preacher  with  those  from 
his  charge.  Mr.  Schaum  preached  the  synodical  sermon.  After  the 
close  of  the  service,  our  Church  Convention  was  held,  thanks  to  God ! 
in  good  order,  love  and  unity.  The  following  is  what  was  unanimously 
decided  :  1 .  No  theological  student  or  ex-preacher  who  has  come  to  us 
without  a  regular  call  and  sufficient  testimonials,  shall  be  permitted  to 
preach,  until  he  have  been  satisfactorily  examined  by  us.  2.  In  the 
future,  parents  shall  in  baptism  be  asked  :  "  Do  you  in  the  name  of  this 
child  renounce,"  etc.  "  Do  you  in  the  name  of  this  child  believe,"  etc. 
3.  Toward  all  and  each  of  our  fellows  in  the  faith  and  church  members, 
who  live  in  open  crime,  we  are  to  conduct  ourselves  in  accordance  with 
the  precept  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  Matth.  18  :  15-17,  and  indeed  in 
such  wise,  that  such  an  one  be  brought,  (a)  before  the  preacher  alone, 
(b)  before  the  whole  Church  Council,  and  the  deacons,  (c)  before  all  the 
church  members  who  remain  standing  after  service,  and  they  shall  be 
addressed  in  a  brotherly  way ;  but  if  all  this  should  be  fruitless,  such  an 
one  is  to  be  (d)  publicly  excluded,  before  all  men  and  from  the  pulpit, 
from  our  church  communion  and  fellowship,  in  so  far  that  he  shall 
neither  stand  as  sponsor  to  any  child  in  baptism,  nor  go  to  Communion, 
until  he  shall  have  shown  genuine  proof  of  improvement.  4.  Next 
year  our  Church  Convention  shall  be  held  in  Providence  with  Pastor 
Muhlenberg.  5.  In  case  one  of  our  United  Preachers  should  die,  the 
other  preachers  shall  assist  his  congregation  and  serve  it  as  far  as  possi- 
ble. About  three  o'clock  in  the  afternoon  the  Church  Convention  closed, 
and  we  went,  each  preacher  with  his  delegates,  three  by  three,  out  of 
church,  through  a  part  of  the  city,  to  the  house  of  one  of  the  members 
of  our  Church  Council,  where  a  meal  was  prepared  and  more  than  sixty 
persons  dined.  During  the  meal,  edifying  hymns  were  sung  alternately 
in  each  of  the  rooms,  and  everything  was  ended  in  the  best  spirit  and 
to  general  satisfaction. 


THIRD  CONVENTION. 

1750. 


FIRST  SUNDAY  AFTER  TRINITY, 

(June  17,  in  Providence.) 


[Pastor  Muhlenberg's  Report  of  His  Official  Transactions,  1750 
Hallesche  Nachrichten  (n.  e.)  507,  595,  f.  (o.  e.)  352-4.] 

In  the  mouth  of  June  preparations  were  made  for  the  annual  meeting. 
Providence  was  appointed  as  the  place,  and  June  17  and  18,  as  the  time. 

June  11,  Pastor  Brunuholtz  arrived  in  Providence,  in  order  to  make 
the  necessary  arrangements  with  me,  and  to  refresh  himself  in  the 
country  air. 

June  15,  Mr.  Weygand,  with  three  elders  from  Raritan,  arrived,  as 
also  Pastor  Handscliuh  from  Lancaster,  but  his  congregation  sent  no 
delegates,  although  they  had  been  recpiested  to  do  so.  Further,  Assistant 
Schanm  came  with  two  delegates  from  his  congregation.  Finally 
Assistant  Kurtz  with  three  delegates  from  Tulpehocken,  Substitute 
Schrenck  with  four  men  from  his  congregations  also  arrived,  and  at 
evening  three  elders  from  Raritan. 

June  10,  we  laid  Latin  examination  questions  before  Mr.  Weygand, 
which  he  was  to  answer.  On  the  same  day  Mr.  Handscliuh  came  with 
his  wife,  but  the  congregation  sent  no  delegates,  which  increased  the 

confusion At  evening  the  three  leading  elders  of  the  Raritan 

congregation  arrived,  who  several  weeks  before  this  had  sent  in 
writing  eight  points  of  complaint  against  Mr.  Weygand.  They  pro- 
tested against  Mr.  Weygand's  ordination,  and  also  brought  the  men  who 
had  come  with  Mr.  Weygand  over  to  their  side.  We  preachers,  with 
Mr.  Weygand  and  the  men,  went  to  a  place  alone,  and  conferred  till 
late  at  night,  heard  both  parties,  and  censured  Mr  Weygand  severely 
for  the  points  in  which  he  had  erred  and  given  offence.  But  the  afore- 
mentioned three  men  insisted  that  at  this  time  he  should  not  be  ordained 
for  their  congregation.  They  wished  to  see  whether  he  would  improve; 
then  he  might  be  ordained  for  Raritan,  at  the  consecration  of  their  new 
church.  We  dared  not  ordain  him  by  force,  but  were  embarrassed  and 
Mr.  Weygand  yet  more  so,  because  it  had  become  a  matter  of  gen- 

27 


28  DOCUMENTARY  HISTOEY. 

eral  report  that  he  was  to  be  ordained.  This  protest  was  indeed  the 
greatest  punishment  that  Mr.  Weygand  drew  upon  himself  by  his 
indiscretions. 

June  17,  the  First  Sunday  after  Trinity,  there  assembled  in  and 
before  my  house  Messrs.  Brunnholtz,  Handschuh,  Kurtz,  Schaum, 
Weygand,  Schrenck,  Pause,  as  also  the  delegates,  in  number  as  fol- 
lows :  from  Philadelphia,  eight ;  Germantown,  six  ;  Providence,  twelve ; 
New  Hanover,  six ;  the  Swedish-English  congregation,  one ;  Tulpe- 
hocken  and  Heidelberg,  Mr.  Weiser  and  four  others ;  Yorktown,  across 
the  Susquehanna,  two ;  Lancaster,  one,  who,  however,  came  of  his  own 
accord,  and  was  not  sent  by  the  congregation ;  from  Upper  Milford, 
Saccum,  Fork  and  Saccuna,  four;  Indianfield,  two  ;  Goschenhoppen, 
two ;  the  Tohecka,  two ;  Macunshey.  two ;  Raritan,  six,  and  Cohenzy, 
two.  These  all  went  in  procession  from  my  house  to  the  church  and 
held  service  in  peace  and  reverence  before  God.  We  had  removed 
the  windows  and  made  protections  of  green  bushes  about  the  church, 
because  the  church  could  not  hold  the  mass  of  people.  Pastor  Hand- 
schuh preached  the  chief  sermon.  (The  people  complained  that  they 
could  not  understand  Handschuh  because  of  his  weak  voice.)  After 
the  sermon  I  made  a  short  address  to  the  people,  on  "  The  Footsteps  of 
God,"  how  for  eight  years  they  have  abounded  in  blessings  among  us 
scattered  Lutherans.  Afterwards  I  also  made  a  short  Latin  address  to 
my  colleagues.  After  the  service  the  members  of  the  congregation  at 
Providence  who  lived  nearest  took  their  guests  home,  and  shared  with 
them  what  the  Lord  had  granted  them  for  their  nourishment,  and  I 
acted  the  host  for  the  preachers  and  other  good  friends,  as  many  as  the 
house  could  hold.  Toward  evening  most  of  the  delegates  again  assem- 
bled at  my  house,  with  the  intention  that  they  would  have  an  edifying 
conversation  with  the  collegium  of  preachers.  I  did  not  know  with 
what  intention  they  came,  but  did  the  best  I  could,  related  something 
about  the  mission  among  the  Malabars,  among  the  Jews,  and  similar 
things,  that  were  edifying  and  easily  understood.  But  I  could  not 
continue  very  long,  as  I  was  wearied  by  the  great  work  of  the  day.  Mr. 
Brunnholtz  continued,  but  was  weak,  Mr.  Handschuh  had  no  strength, 
and  the  younger  men  hid  themselves  here  and  there. 

This  caused  dissatisfaction  among  the  delegates,  who  said  they  had 
come  so  far,  since  they  had  thought  ihey  would  be  edified  by  the  presence 
of  the  preachers,  as  they  seldom  had  the  opportunity  of  having  so  many 
together ;  but  that  most  of  the  preachers  had  taken  no  notice  of  them,  and 
therefore  they  had  but  scant  fare.  The  Swedish  Provost  did  not  come 
as  he  had  promised,  and  sent  no  letter  of  excuse,  which  confirmed  the 
conjecture  that  Nyberg  and  his  followers  had  made  some  attempt. 


THIRD  CONVENTION,  1750.  29 

June  18th  we  again  went  to  church  together,  had  Mr.  Weygand 
preach,  and  afterwards  held  a  long  conference  concerning  the  external 
condition  and  improvement  of  the  congregations.  Of  the  necessity, 
purpose  and  usefulness  of  such  a  yearly  meeting  and  conference  of  the 
preachers  and  delegated  elders  of  the  congregations  much  might  be 
written,  did  it  not  appear  to  all  how  and  why  they  are  necessary. 
Alter  the  conference  nearly  eighty  persons  were  supplied  with  food  as 
they  needed,  and  the  preachers  were  distributed  among  the  guests  seek- 
ing to  edify  the  delegates  and  other  members  of  the  congregations  with 
profitable  conversation.  After  the  meal  the  lesults  of  the  conference 
were  reduced  to  writing,  and  a  copy  given  to  each  of  the  congregations, 
and  the  delegates  started  on  their  journey  home.  Again  at  this  meet- 
ing and  conference  everything  passed  off  in  an  orderly  and  Christian 
manner.  The  preachers  remained  together  and  waited  for  Mr.  Wag- 
ner, who  arrived  on  June  19,  presented  his  complaints  and  agreed 
to  a  neighborly  amnesty  with  us.  God  grant  that  it  may  be  of  some 
advantage  both  to  us  and  to  him ! 

II. 

[Hallesche  Nachrichtex.     (n.  e.  pp.  471-3.)] 

Copia  Protocolll  Synodi,  held  in  Providence,  June  18,  1750.     Kept 
by  Pastor  Handschuh. 
The  names  of  the  preachers  and  members  of  this  meeting  present,  are  : 

I.  Preachers :  Messrs.  Muhlenberg,  Brunnholtz,  Handschuh,  Kurtz, 
Schaum. 

II.  Catcchists :  Mr.  Weygand,  Mr.  Schrenck. 

III.  Mr.  Conrad  Weiser  and  Mr.  Rauss,  as  friends. 

IV.  Members  of  Church  Councils  and  deacons: 

1.  Philadelphia:  Schoolmaster  Vigera,  Mr.  Schleydorn,  Mr.  Keppele, 
Mr.  Seckel ;  the  deacons :  Thomas  Siirmer,  Adam  Weber  and  Caspar 
Graf.  From  the  congregation  voluntarily  :  Wilhelm  Rausk,  Johannes 
Oswald,  Johannes  Eberle. 

2.  Germantown  :  Anton  Hinkel,  Christoph  Rabens,  Martin  Schwarz ; 
the  deacons:  Frederick  Engel,  Jurg  [?]  Hofmann. 

3.  Lancaster:  Dr.  Adam  Simon  Kuhn. 

4.  York:  Balthasar Knorzer,  Banhol.    Maul. 

5.  Tulpehocken:  Christoph  Nacker,  Leonhard  Holstein,  Conrad 
Lang. 

6.  Raritan  :  P>althasar  Pickel,  Johann  Mohlig,  Laurenz  Rolofsen, 
Jacob  Schubmann,  Adam  Vackerodt. 

7.  Saccum :  Balthasar  Beil. 


30  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

8.  Upper  Milford :  Thomas  Kerr. 

9.  The  Fork:  Gottfried  Mohlig,  Joh.  G.  Raup. 

10.  Birkensee :  Two  Deacons. 

11.  Goscheuhoppen  and  Indianfield,  where  Andrea  was  stationed: 
Reyer,  Schneider,  Lohr  and  B.  Crosmann. 

12.  Cohenzy  :  Gabriel  Trollinger,  Schoolmaster  Michael  Dielshofer. 

13.  Providence:  All  the  twelve  elders  and  deacons. 

14.  New  Hanover :  Four  elders. 

15.  Mackunshy :  Two  men. 

Acta  et  Conclusa  Synodi  Nov.  Provid.  d.  18  Juni,  1750,  habiti. 

1.  Pastor  Muhlenberg's  proposition  concerning  the  necessity  of  a 
Superintendent  over  all  our  United  Congregations,  to  be  elected  yearly. 
To  this  office,  although  one  of  the  Philadelphia  Church  Council  objected, 
because  of  his  delicate  health,  and  numerous  duties,  Pastor  Brunnholtz 
was  elected  for  this  year. 

2.  The  Acta  et  Conclusa  of  the  Lancaster  Synod  held  in  the  previous 
year,  together  with  the  names  of  the  members  at  that  time  present  from 
the  United  Congregations  present,  were  again  read. 

3.  To  the  question,  whether  there  were  peace  in  the  congregations 
between  ministers  and  congregations :  a.  Philadelphia  had  nothing  to 
reply,  b.  Germantown  complained  of  neglect  of  the  church,  whereupon 
Pastor  Brunnholtz  replied  that  they  had  always  had  services ;  sometimes 
Mr.  Rauss  had  preached,  and  sometimes  Mr.  Vigera  had  read  when  his 
own  enfeebled  condition  hindered  him  from  officiating,  c.  Lancaster : 
There  was  some  little  difficulty  between  Mr.  Handschuh  and  the  congre- 
gation, but  it  was  soon  removed,  and  Mr.  Conrad  Weiser  was  prevailed 
upon  to  give  an  impartial  judgment,  d.  York :  The  congregations  were 
well  satisfied  with  Rev.  Mr.  Schaum.  e.  The  Tulpehocken  congregation 
and  Providence  testified  similarly.  /.  The  misunderstanding  between  Mr. 
Schrenck  and  his  Birkensee  congregation  was  briefly  mentioned,  and  the 
deacons  placed  the  blame  for  the  separation  in  the  congregation  upon 
Mr.  Schrenk.  The  further  investigation  of  this  was  postponed,  g.  The 
Raritan  people  had  nothing  against  Mr.  Weygand's  teaching,  and  also 
wished  to  keep  him  longer.  Other  matters  had  been  already  taken  up 
and  settled  by  the  preachers  two  days  previously. 

4.  The  congregations  at  Goscheuhoppen  and  Indianfield  desire  to 
join  our  number,  and  to  be  served  by  us  United  Preachers,  since  with 
good  conscience,  they  neither  could  nor  would  keep  Andrea  any  longer. 
Pastor  Muhlenberg  promises  to  visit  them  as  soon  as  possible,  and  the 
other  preachers  also  obligate  themselves  to  care  for  them. 

5.  In  reply  to  the  urgent  request  of  the  congregation  in  Mackunshy, 


THIRD  CONVENTION,   1750.  31  > 

to  have  an  ordained  preacher,  it  was  informed  that  provision  would  be 
made;  at  this  time  it  is  impossible  to  supply  it  with  a  regular  pastor. 
Yet,  in  accordance  with  opportunity  and  ability,  Mr.  Schrenck  is  to  visit 
the  place  now  and  tben  and  preach.  This  congregation  was  then  also 
rec<  ived  into  our  fellowship. 

6.  The  deacons  of  the  congregation  at  Birkensee  were  again  called 
up  and  further  answer  made  them,  that  it  was  not  possible  to  have  them 
served  by  Mr.  Schrenck.  They  were  therefore  united  with  Old  Goschen- 
hoppen  and  Indianiield,  so  that  these  three  may  form  one  congregation. 

7.  The  congregation  at  Cohenzy  in  Jersey,  36  miles  from  Philadel- 
phia, asked  for  aid.  Their  schoolmaster  is  to  be  examined  in  the  after- 
noon and  be  given  a  certificate. 

8.  The  humble  petition  of  the  Church  Council  of  the  congregation  of 
Philadelphia,  to  keep  Pastor  Brunnholtz  for  themselves  alone,  and  free 
him  from  the  Germantown  congregation,  was  read  by  Pastor  Muhlen- 
berg, and  the  information  given  them  that,  without  the  knowledge  and 
permission  of  our  Fathers  in  Europe,  Ave  were  not  authorized  to  make 
any  changes;  that  we  had  written  to  the  Superiors  in  Europe  in  Novem- 
ber already,  of  the  previous  year ;  they  must  have  patience  until  the 
answer  is  received.     With  this  they  were  satisfied. 

9.  The  schools,  as  far  as  possible,  are  flourishing  in  all  the  congrega- 
tions, Goschenhoppen  and  the  other  small  congregations  excepted.  At 
York,  Schoolmaster  Maul,  ou  account  of  his  age,  desires  to  be  relieved 
from  further  service;  but  he  and  the  congregation  received  from  us 
ministers  a  certificate  authorizing  him  to  continue. 

10.  A  question  was  propounded  by  a  certain  man  in  Philadelphia 
as  to  whether  he  may  not  marry  again,  as  he  has  separated  from  his 
adulterous  wife,  has  a  certificate  of  divorce  from  her,  and  has  sent  her 
to  Holland.  The  answer  was :  In  accordance  with  the  laws  of  this 
land  the  question  does  not  belong  to  the  Synod  ;  we  must  not  encroach 
upon  the  government  in  this  matter.  It  could  only  be  decided  by  the- 
government,  where  he  should  have  sought  for  an  answer  before  she  went 
from  him  to  Holland. 

11.  Concerning  Church  discipline  in  the  case  of  persons  guilty  ox 
fornication  and  adultery,  resolved  that  such  persons  shall,  after  evi- 
dence of  penitence,  be  publicly  absolved  (abgclcsen  iverden)  ou  Sunday 
from  the  pulpit,  but  no  names  shall  be  mentioned. 

12.  A  "Guardian,"  for  the  newly  arrived  orphans,  whose  passage 
has  been  paid,  but  whose  parents  were  lost  at  sea,  shall  be  appointed 
at  Philadelphia,  who  shall  see  to  it  that  such  orphans  do  not  lose  their 

-ions  at  the  hands  of  deceivers   and   unjust   persons.     To   this 
duty  John  Eberle,  of  Philadelphia,  was  named,  who,  in  the  past  year, 


32  DOCUMENTAKY  HISTOKY. 

had  been  used  to  this  end  by  Pastor  Brunnholtz,  and  through  whose 
activity  much  mischief  had  been  prevented.  Compensation  for  his 
trouble  shall  be  paid  by  the  United  Congregations.  Some  other  points 
having  been  considered,  and  the  meeting  having  lasted  almost  four  hours, 
it  was  finally  resolved  at  about  three  o'clock :  that 

13.  Next  year  the  Synod  shall  be  held  in  Philadelphia,  and  on  the 
following  day  the  consecration  of  the  church  at  Germantown,  in  the 
month  of  May,  before  the  heat  becomes  great. 

Mr.  Handschuh  closed  with  a  prayer,  and  all  present  sang  a  hymn. 

As  a  memorial  of  this  and  upon  order,  this  brief  Protocol!  has  been 
signed  in  the  name  of  all  the  preachers  and  elders,  by 

Peter  Brunnholtz. 


FOURTH   CONVENTION. 

1751. 

[May  12th,  13th.] 


[Pastor  Muhlenberg's  Report.     Hallesche  Nachrichten,  p.  436  o.  e. ;  n.  e., 

II.:  10.] 

I  had  agreed  with  Pastor  Brunnholtz  that  we  would  postpone  our 
meeting  and  conference,  until  I  returned  from  New  York.  But  several 
elders  of  our  congregations  insisted  that  it  be  held  before  I  went  away, 
and  as  it  had  been  appointed  at  the  preceding  meeting,  that  is,  in  the 
month  of  May.  Consequently  we  were  required  to  make  preparations 
for  it.  The  twelfth  and  thirteenth  of  May  were  appointed,  and  notice 
sent  to  all  the  United  Congregations  and  their  pastors.  In  the  mean- 
while I  made  preparations  for  the  journey,  and,  with  a  heavy  heart,  said 
farewell  in  New  Hanover  on  April  28,  and  in  Providence  on  May  6, 
before  large  assemblies.  Starting  from  Providence  with  Mr.  Kurtz  on 
May  8,  I  arrived  in  Philadelphia  on  the  9th. 

May  10.  The  Swedish  Provost  [Acrelius]  visited  us,  with  whom  I 
held  a  conversation  about  Pennsylvania  Church  affairs.  He  excused 
himself  and  expressed  his  sorrow  that  he  could  not  attend  our  conven- 
tion on  the  following  Sunday  and  Monday,  as  he  had  been  informed  of 
it  too  late,  and  had  unavoidable  business  in  his  congregations,  but  his 
colleague,  the  Swedish  preacher  of  Philadelphia,  Mr.  Berlin,  would  meet 
with  as. 

May  1 1 .  We  were  much  disturbed  welcoming  the  delegates  of  all  the 
United  Congregations  and  questioning  them  about  the  condition  of  their 
congregations. 

May  12.  There  were  present,  of  ministers,  besides  the  Swedish  pastor, 
Mr.  Berlin,  Messrs.  Brunnholtz,  Handschuh,  Hartwig,  Kurtz,  Wey- 
gand,  Schrenck,  and  I.  Mr.  Schaum  could  not  attend  on  account  of 
illness.  Mr.  Hartwig  consecrated  the  new  organ,  and  I  preached  in 
the  morning,  Mr.  "Weygand  in  the  afternoon,  and  Mr.  Kurtz  in  the 
evening.  Everything  was  conducted  in  an  orderly  and  edifying  manner, 
and  no  accident  or  injury  happened,  though  a  great  crowd  of  people 
was  in  the  church. 

3  33 


34  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

II. 

[Pastor  Handschtjh's  Diary.     H.  N.,  o.  e.,  534;  II.:  269.] 

May  13.  Mr.  Hartwig  preached  the  synodical  sermon  and  Pastor 
Brunuholtz  opened  the  meeting.  One  of  my  most  bitter  opponents 
from  Lancaster,  who  always  secretly  excited  his  followers  against  me, 
was  also  present,  though  without  having  been  sent  by  the  congregation. 
When  Lancaster  came,  in  the  regular  order,  he  was  called  forward  and 
earnestly  asked  by  Pastor  Muhlenberg  whether  he  had  been  sent  as  a 
delegate,  and  what  he  and  the  whole  congregation  had  discovered  against 
my  teaching,  life,  and  conduct  in  office.  Whereupon,  full  of  shame,  as 
it  seemed,  he  answered,  that  neither  he  nor  any  one  in  the  congregation 
could  show  the  slightest  thing  against  my  teaching  and  life.  Every- 
thing else  in  the  meeting  also  passed  off  quietly  and  orderly,  and  what 
was  not  completed  was  postponed  until  afternoon.  We  dined  in  the 
outskirts  of  the  city,  in  the  house  of  one  of  the  Church  Council,  and 
then  the  rest  was  adjusted  between  the  parties. 

III. 

[Hallesche  Nachrichtem",  n.  e.  I.,  pp.  688-9.] 

Transactions  and  resolutions  of  the  United  Preachers  and  the  delegates 
of  their  united  congregations  in  their  Synodical  Convention,  May  13, 
1751,  at  Philadelphia  : 

1.  Rev.  Handschuh  was  elected  President  or  Superintendent  for  this 
year. 

2.  It  was  considered  well  by  all,  that  when  complaints  are  to  be  made 
concerning  the  doctrine  or  life  of  a  pastor  he  be  conferred  with  before 
the  matter  be  brought  before  the  convention,  in  order  that  small  matters 
may  be  settled  quietly,  and  the  precious  time  of  the  meeting  be  spent 
on  more  important  and  edifying  matters. 

3.  Rev.  Muhlenberg  promised,  in  answer  to  the  many  requests  of  the 
delegates,  to  return  as  soon  as  possible,  but  in  the  meantime  his  congre- 
gations are  to  be  cared  for  by  Rev.  Messrs.  Brunuholtz,  Handschuh, 
and  the  other  United  Preachers. 

4.  A  correct  "  Church  Order  "  was  considered  of  the  highest  neces- 
sity, by  means  of  which  the  pure  evangelical  doctrine  and  a  well-ordered 
church  discipline  could  be  transmitted  to  our  posterity.  This  is  to  be 
prepared  by  the  United  Preachers  and  laid  before  all  the  congregations 
for  approval. 

5.  In  the  future,  Holy  Communion  shall  be  held  before  the  10th  of 


FOURTH  CONVENTION,  1751.  35 

April  and  the  10th  of  September,  on  account  of  naturalization,  yet, 
if  possible,  always  on  Sunday. 

6.  Old  Goschenhoppen  and  Indianfield  have  called  the  Catechist,  Mr. 
Rauss,  as  their  regular  teacher,  and  this  shall  be  granted  them  as  soon 
as  possible,  if  he  will  accept  their  call. 

7.  The  congregations  at  The  Forks  have  asked  for  the  ordination  of 
their  preacher,  the  Catechist,  Mr.  Schrenck.  Action  postponed  till  our 
next  meeting. 

8.  A  small  congregation  on  the  Chamoni  (Neshaminy),  having  asked 
for  our  help  and  for  union  with  us,  all  possible  help  was  promised. 

9.  The  Makunschy  poeple,  who,  at  their  request,  were  received  by  us 
last  year,  have  left  us  again,  and  burdened  themselves  with  a  godless 
teacher  of  whom  they  would  now  like  to  be  rid. 

10.  Lancaster  appealed  to  us  as  to  whether,  with  clear  conscience,  we 
would  desert  them  for  the  sake  of  a  few,  since  no  one  in  the  whole 
congregation  had  any  complaint  to  make  against  Rev.  Handschuh  s 
teaching  and  life. 

11.  The  next  Synod  of  the  United  Congregations  shall,  God  willing, 
be  held  in  Germantown,  where  Rev.  Handschuh  will  be  stationed. 

Joh.  Friedr.  Handschuh. 

IV. 

[Letter  of  Pastor  Muhlenberg  to  Rev.  Ziegenhagen  in  London,  and 
Dr.  Francke  in  Halle,  Feb.  18,  1752.  H.  N.,  o.  e.  511-2  (cf.  H.  N., 
o.  e.  625).] 

After  a  general  consultation  of  our  United  Ministerium,  Rev.  Schultz 
has  been  appointed  assistant  in  the  congregations  of  New  Hanover  and 
Providence  on  trial,  and  Mr.  Heintzelmann  has  been  stationed  at 
Philadelphia  as  assistant  at  the  church  and  the  school  until  further 
arrangements. 

[Schultz  and  Heintzelmann  arrived  Dec.  1,  1751.  The  above-men- 
tioned conference  was  held  Dec.  17,  1751,  at  Philadelphia,  Pastors 
H  M.  Miihlenberg,  Brunnholtz  and  Handschuh  being  present,  and 
Jan.  15, 1752  at  Providence,  when  Schultz  and  Heintzelmann  were  also 
,  present  (H.  N.,  new  ed.  p.  263).] 


FIFTH  CONVENTION. 

1752. 


SEVENTEENTH  SUNDAY  AFTER  TRINITY. 

(October  2,  in  Germautown.) 

I. 

[Pastor  Handsctttjh's  Diary,  1752.     H.  N.,  568  ff.  n.  e.  II.:  90.] 

Sept  28.  As  on  the  approaching  Sunday  the  church  at  this  place, 
which  has  been  almost  entirely  rebuilt,  is  to  be  consecrated,  and  after 
that,  our  yearly  conference  is  to  be  held,  there  arrived  to-day,  towards 
evening,  first  Mr.  Rauss,  and  not  long  afterwards,  Mr.  Schulze,  with 
whom  I  conferred  preliminarily  concerning  their  circumstances  and 
those  of  their  congregations. 

Sept.  29,  early,  Pastor  Muhlenberg  and  Mr.  Kurtz  arrived.  We 
immediately  conferred  with  one  another,  and  read  Mr.  Muhlenberg's 
excellent  hymn  written  for  the  consecration  of  our  church.  Towards 
noon  Pastor  Brunnholtz  also  arrived,  with  whom  Mr.  Kurtz  and  I  went 

to  the  printer  Sauer  to  have  the  hymn  printed Towards  evening 

Mr.  Heintzelmann,  with  another  dear  friend,  arrived. 

Sept.  30,  early,  Mr.  Weygand  also  arrived. 

Oct.  1,  early,  a  conference  was  held  with  the  elders  and  deacons  of 
Germantown,  about  various  matters,  especially  concerning  the  mainte- 
nance of  external  good  order.  In  the  meanwhile  the  Swedish  Provost 
Acrelius  also  arrived,  and  soon  thereafter  Mr.  Schaum.  The  negro 
who  had  previously  been  instructed  by  me  was  also  brought  in  and 
various  things  talked  over  with  him.  When  about  ten  o'clock,  all  the 
preachers  except  Mr.  Schrenck  were  come  together,  and  all  the  delegated 
elders  and  deacons  had  assembled  before  my  dwelling,  we  went  to  the 
church  in  procession.  The  Germantown  elders  and  deacons  preceded, " 
then  we  preachers  followed,  of  whom  the  younger  men  carried  the  sacred 
vessels.  Then  came  the  visiting  delegates,  and  lastly  all  the  remaining 
people  of  all  classes,  who  had  come  in  great  numbers  in  spite  of  the 
rain  of  yesterday  and  all  last  night,  the  stormy  weather  and  wretched 
roads.  After  everything  had  become  quiet  and  orderly  in  the  church, 
the  service  was  opened,  1,  with  the  hymn,  "  Komm,  Heiliger  Geisf,"  etc., 
3G 


FIFTH  CONVENTION,  1752.  37 

sung  in  chorus.  The  first  two  stanzas  the  ministers  sang  alone,  accom- 
panied on  the  harp  by  a  schoolmaster  ;  the  third,  the  whole  congregation 
sang.  During  the  singing  Mr.  Schrenck  also  arrived.  2.  Mr.  Brunn- 
holtz,  standing  before  the  altar,  began  the  consecration  with  a  beautiful, 
brief,  and  most  timely  address,  after  which,  3,  the  Swedish  Provost 
Acrelius  consecrated  the  church  itself.  After  the  consecration,  4,  we 
preachers  all  knelt  around  the  altar  and  offered  prayer,  each  with  refer- 
ence to  some  matter  suggested  by  present  circumstances,  in  the  following 
order:  Messrs.  Muhlenberg,  Kurtz,  Schaum,  Weygand,  Heintzelmann, 
Schulze,  Schrenck,  Rauss,  and  I  (Handschuh)  was  the  last.  5.  From 
the  printed  consecration  hymn,  the  twenty-second  and  twenty-third 
stanzas  were  sung  by  us  preachers  accompanied  by  the  harp.  They 
read  as  follows : 

"Lass,  Jehova,  Dir  gefallen 

Was  Dir  Herz  und  Zunge  singt. 
Hure,  wie  Dein  Volk  nrit  Lallen 

Dir  dies  Haus  zum  Opfer  briugt, 
Und  es  widmet  Deiner  Ehre, 
Zum  Gebrauch  der  reineu  Lehre, 

Die  durch  Deines  Geistes  Kraft 

In  uns  neue  Herzen  schafft. 

"Pflanze,  Herr,  Dein  Bild  und  Tugend 

Durch  Dein  ewig  bleibend  Wort 
In  das  Alterthura  und  Jugend, 

Und  auf  Kindes-kinder  fort. 
Halte  dazu  treue  Knechte, 
Die  Dein  Zeugniss,  Bund  und  Kechte 

Rein  bewabren  in  der  Noth, 

Und  getreu  seyn  bis  in  Tod." 

6.  Mr.  Rauss,  standing  before  the  altar,  read  the  fifteenth  Psalm.  7. 
The  whole  congregation  then  sang  the  seventh  to  the  ninth  stanzas  of 
the  hymn  :  "  Sey  Lob  und  Ehr  dein  Iwchsten  Gut,"  etc.  8.  Mr.  Muhlen- 
berg preached  an  excellent  and  inspiring  consecration  sermon  on  John 
5 :  1-9,  of  which  he  made  most  pertinent  applications,  suited  to  the 
occasion.  9.  After  the  sermon,  the  hymn :  "Wachetauf!  ruft  uns  die 
Stimme,"  etc,  was  sung  in  chorus.  10.  The  negro,  thirty  years  of  age, 
was  led  before  the  altar  by  Pastor  Brunnholtz  and  Mr.  Schleydorn,  hia 
self-chosen  sponsors,  and  examined  and  baptized  by  me.  After  the 
baptism,  he  gave  to  all  the  preachers  present  the  right  hand  of  faithful- 
ness and  constancy  ;  at  wdiich  opportunity,  each  of  the  preachers  further 
wished  him  the  necessary  grace  of  God,  which  I  had  done  before  in  a 


38  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

prayer.  11.  Then  in  continuance  the  hymn :  "  0  Lamm  Oottes  unschul- 
dig,"  etc.,  was  sung  12.  We  preachers  all  knelt,  Mr.  Muhlenberg 
offered  the  prayer  of  repentance  and  confession,  and  Mr.  Brunnholz 
spoke  the  words :  "  Lord  God  Father  in  heaven,"  etc.  13.  I  conse- 
crated and  administered  the  sacrament  of  the  Lord's  Supper  to  my 
colleagues  first,  among  whom  also  was  the  Swedish  Provost,  and  then 
Pastor  Muhlenberg  also  gave  it  to  me.  14.  Then  "  Wie  bin  ich  do<-h  so 
herzlichjroh"  etc.,  was  sung,  and  finally  the  benediction  was  pronounced, 
and  the  words:  "  Unsern  Ausgang  segne  Gott,"  etc.,  were  sung. 

Nothing  as  pleasant,  edifying  and  inspiring  as  this  service  have  I  ever 
before  experienced  in  this  country ;  perhaps  not  even  in  Germany.  For 
we  preachers  had  all  one  heart  and  one  soul.  I  hope,  therefore,  that  a 
good  impression  for  the  future  also  has  been  left  in  the  hearts  of  all 
present.  The  entire  service  lasted  from  ten  to  two  o'clock ;  but  this 
time  seemed  to  us  all  as  though  it  had  been  but  a  quarter  of  an  hour. 
Toward  four  o'clock  we  again  went  to  church,  where  Mr.  Kurtz  preached 
a  thoroughly  elaborated  and  edifying  sermon  on  the  epistle  for  the  day, 
Ephes.  5  :  1-6.  The  evening  we  spent  until  late  at  night  in  singing, 
prayer  and  pleasant  talks,  as  well  as  it  could  be  done  in  this  vale  oi 
sorrow  and  tear3 ;  and  we  put  up  with  our  little  dwelling,  and  I  heard 
no  one  complain  of  any  discomfort. 

October  2.  About  eight  o'clock,  Mr.  Berlin,  the  Swedish  minister  in 
Philadelphia  arrived.  About  nine  o'clock,  we  all  went  with  the  dele- 
gated elders  and  deacons  to  church  to  hold  the  Church  Conference.  First 
of  all,  the  names  of  the  twelve  preachers  who  were  present,  and  of  the 
delegated  elders  and  deacons  of  our  congregations,  sixty-eight  in  num- 
ber, were  recorded ;  then  the  first  stanza  of  "  Komm,  Heiliger  Geist, 
Havre  Gott,"  was  sung.  Next  the  Swedish  Provost,  standing  before  the 
altar,  delivered  an  appropriate  Latin  address  to  the  whole  United  Minis- 
terium,  in  which  he  expressed  his  joy  in  our  behalf,  and  congratulated 
us,  and  Pastor  Muhlenberg  thanked  him  briefly  in  the  same  language. 
Then,  after  the  second  stanza  of  the  hymn,  "  Komm,  Heiliger  Geist" 
etc.,  was  sung  and  prayer  offered  by  me.  Mr.  Miihlenberg,  who  did 
most  of  the  talking,  announced  the  arrival  of  two  new  co-laborers, 
Messrs.  Heintzelmann  and  Schultz.    The  congregations  were  encouraged. 

II. 

[IIallesche  Nacjirichten.     (n.  e.  I,  p.  689.)] 

What  was  unanimously  resolved  in  the  meeting  of  the  United  Evan- 
gelical Preachers  and  the  delegates  of  their  congregations,  in  German- 
town,  October  2,  1752: 


FIFTH  CONVENTION,  1752.  39 

1.  Wherever  necessary,  schools  shall  be  organized  according  to  the 
excellent  model  of  the  Philadelphia  congregation. 

2.  Instruction  for  children  shall  be  held  by  the  ministers  here  and 
there  in  the  congregations,  where  necessity  requires,  at  opportune  times 
and  under  convenient  circumstances. 

3.  Old  Goschenhoppen,  Indianfield  and  Toheka  shall  remain  together 
as  they  have  been  to  the  present,  and  be  served  by  Mr.  Rauss,  but  .New 
Goschenhoppen  by  Mr.  Schultz. 

4.  The  congregation  in  Frederickstown,  Maryland,  shall  be  visited  by 
Rev.  Mr.  Schaum  as  often  as  possible  until  all  are  united  and  we  can 
help  them  further. 

5.  In  accordance  with  the  petition  of  the  Reading  people,  Rev.  Muh- 
lenberg will  preach  the  first  sermon  in  their  newly  built  church,  on  the 
Nineteenth  Sunday  after  Trinity. 

6.  To  satisfy  the  sureties  (Geburgteti),  the  people  in  Raritan  shall 
consider,  whether  out  of  brotherly  love  and  according  to  equity,  they 
may  not,  with  justice  to  them,  allow  Rev.  Weygand  to  preach  there  or 
hold  service  on  the  sixth  and  eighth  Sundays. 

7.  The  elders  or  deacons  with  the  ministers,  shall  see  that  the  people 
behave  quietly  and  orderly  in  church  before  and  after  service,  in  order 
that  all  distraction  and  vexation  be  prevented. 

8.  The  next  Church  Convention  shall  be  held  in  Tulpehocken. 

9.  In  order  to  lighten  the  toil  and  labor  of  the  older  ministers,  and 
also  by  reason  of  the  necessity  of  circumstances,  Messrs.  Schrenck  and 
Rauss,  heretofore  our  assistants  and  co-laborers,  shall  be  publicly  or- 
dained to  the  holy  ministry  in  Providence,  on  the  Twenty-second  Sunday 
after  Trinity,  November  5. 

10.  All  the  United  Preachers  shall  therefore  arrange,  if  at  all  possible, 
to  be  with  their  oldest  minister,  Rev.  Muhlenberg,  on  the  Thursday  pre- 
ceding November  2. 

11.  The  congregations  on  the  Schemini  and  in  Cohenzi,  shall  be 
served  as  far  as  possible. 

12.  Rev.  Ilandschuh,  of  Germantown,  shall  again  continue  for  this 
year  his  office  as  President,  to  look  after  the  affairs  of  the  United  Con- 
gregations and  their  preachers. 

13.  But  as  he  experienced  many  hindrances  in  the  correct  delivery  of 
the  letters  to  his  colleagues  and  their  congregations  during  the  past 
year,  to  the  injury  of  the  congregations,  it  was  resolved  and  promised, 
that  the  elders,  deacons,  or  other  any  trustworthy  men  from  the  upper 
and  more  remote  congregations,  when  they  came  down  [to  Philadel- 
phia], should  ask  at  his  place  in  Germantown,  or  at  Mr.  Brunnholtz's 


40  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

in  Philadelphia,  whether  there  be  anything  to  be  delivered  to  their 
teachers  or  congregations. 

John  Frederick  Handschuh, 

Lutheran  Minister  in  Germantown. 

To  be  published  to  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  congregations  in  Penn- 
sylvania aud  New  Jersey. 

[Halle  Doc.  I,  485.     Muhlenberg  to  Prelate  Weisensee,  July  18,  1754.] 

In  the  Fall  of  1752  our  old  honorable  Mag.  Schertlin,  with  his  family, 
arrived  here  in  safety.  Since  at  that  time  our  annual  convention  was 
held  in  the  newly-built  church  at  Germantown,  the  Swedish  Provost 
Acrelius  and  thirteen  of  our  United  Preachers  were  present  and  conse- 
crated the  church  by  the  Word  of  God  and  prayer.  Mr.  M.  Schertlin 
would  have  desired  to  attend  with  us,  but  Mr.  Wagner,  Jacob  Beyerle, 
Matthias  Gansle,  Riidelsfuhrer,  Michael  Eye  and  others  had  already 
brought  wood  and  fire  to  the  Germantown  revolution,  and  were  very 
busy  in  the  taverns  carrying  out  their  plans.  Mr.  Schertlin  was  un- 
wittingly drawn  into  it  by  the  force  of  circumstances  (because  the 
golden  rule,  et  audiatur  altera  pars,  has  entirely  gone  out  of  fashion), 
and  had  promised  to  accept  the  office  of  pastor  in  Germantown,  if 
Messrs.  "  Neuliinder  "  could  expel  the  old  Pastor  Handschuh,  who  was 
suspected  of  Pietism. 

Rev.  Mr.  Schertlin  heard  only  our  opponents,  and  that  in  the  taverns 
where  many  vapors  rise,  and  he  may  well  have  formed  the  very  worst 
ideas  of  our  Ministerium,  because  he  was  a  stranger.  The  church,  in 
the  meantime,  was  consecrated,  and  the  United  Preachers  edified  them- 
selves, as  the  disciples  at  the  Transfiguration  of  Christ  on  the  mountain, 
Mattli.  17,  because  they  were  afterwards  to  accompany  Him  to  Geth- 
semane. 


SIXTH   CONVENTION. 

1753. 


[Synod  met  at  Tulpehocken,  probably  in  October.     (H.  N.,o.  e.  G7C  f., 

n.e.  1,264.)] 

At  our  last  conference  in  Tulpehocken,  the  question  was  raised  pri- 
vately among  us  preachers,  whether  we  should  not  contribute  our  mites 
and  together  buy  a  suitable  piece  of  land,  where  it  is  cheap,  and  prepare 
it  for  a  "  retreat  "  for  ourselves  and  our  widows  in  case  of  need.  They 
all  agreed,  except  Mr.  Schultz,  who  answered  that  he  had  land  for  him- 
self, and  wished  to  have  nothing  to  do  with  common  property.  (There 
were  no  "mites;  "  Muhlenberg  proposed  to  sell  his  property  and  buy  a 
suitable  place,  but  would  do  nothing  without  consulting  the  Fathers.) 
[Halle  Doc,  I.,  540.     Muhlenberg  to  Albinus,  March  14,  1754.] 


SEVENTH  CONVENTION. 

1754. 

June  16, 17,  18,  New  Hanover. 


I. 

[Hallesche  Nachrichten,  o.  e.  646  f. ;  II.  183.] 

Our  Synod  is  to  be  held  on  the  first  Sunday  after  Trinity  and  the 
17th  of  June  following.  To  it  are  also  invited  the  four  Swedish 
preachers  united  with  us;  also  Mr.  Gerock,  in  Lancaster,  and  at  their 
request,  Mr.  Schertlin,  and  another,  Hausihl  by  name,  from  I  redricks- 
toWD  in  Maryland,  seventy  to  eighty  miles  beyond  Yorktown,  where 
Mr.  Schaum  lives. 

II. 

[Halle  Doc.,  I.,  500.    Muhlenberg  to  Prelate  Weiseusee,  July  18,  1754] 

In  the  preceding  Fall  we  had  invited  him  (Gerock)  to  our  Synodieal 
Meeting  at  Tulpehocken,  but  the  letter  was  sent  too  late.     This  jear 

41 


42  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

we  invited  him  earlier  to  New  Hanover,  and  received  reply  that  he 
would  attend ;  but  he  stayed  away,  and  sent  a  written  excuse,  promis- 
ing to  visit  us  privately  before  long. 

III. 

[H.  N.,  o.  e.,  I.,  662  sq. ;  n.  e.  II.  192.] 

The  Synodical  sessions  of  the  United  Preachers  of  the  Evangelical 
Lutheran  congregations  of  German  nationality  in  these  American  prov- 
inces, especially  Pennsylvania,  were  held  at  New  Hanover,  in  the 
county  of  Philadelphia,  June  16-18,  of  this  year.  They  were  attended 
by  the  Swedish  Provost,  one  Swedish  preacher,  and  fourteen  High 
German  ministers,  who  deliberated,  as  in  the  presence  of  God,  upon 
both  the  internal  and  external  condition  of  the  congregations.  After 
they  had  reported,  and  mutually  lamented  the  great  hindrances  each 
had  encountered  in  his  office,  and  had  considered  how  what  has  hereto- 
fore retarded  the  progress  of  our  Lord's  Kingdom  may  be  removed, 
and  devised  means  to  aid,  by  God's  help,  the  congregations  and  the 
numerous  ignorant  young  people  within  them,  they  gave  one  another 
their  solemn  pledge  that  they  would  earnestly  ask  their  Heavenly 
Father  for  mercy  and  deliverance.  They  also  promised  each  one,  on 
his  part  and  in  his  circumstances,  to  fulfill  his  office  with  all  fidelity, 
according  to  the  grace  given  him,  and,  by  pure  doctrine  and  a  godly  fife, 
to  destroy  the  Kingdom  of  Satan,  and  promote  the  progress  of  the 
Kingdom  of  God.  It  was  also  considered  most  necessary  to  lay  before 
our  most  worthy  Fathers  and  our  friends  in  Europe  the  condition  of 
our  affairs,  just  as  they  are,  and  to  this  end  to  write  to  you. 

[The  letter  is  written  and  signed  by  Heinrich  Melchior  Muhlenberg,  Senior 
Minist. ,  Peter  Brunnholtz,  Johann  Friedrich  Handschuh,  who,  as  the  three  eldest 
members,  were  appointed  by  the  Ministerium,  to  give  a  brief  history  of  the 
German  immigration  to  Pennsylvania,  and  the  condition  of  each  of  the  congre- 
gations.    It  covers  over  25  pp.] 

IV. 

[Haelesche  Nachrichten,  (o.  e.  661  f.)] 

On  the  past  17th  and  16th  of  June  we  held  our  Annual  Synodical 
Convention  in  New  Hanover,  where  Provost  Acrelius  and  Pastor  Unan- 
der,  of  the  Swedish  Church  and  various  German  preachers  and  several 
elders  were  assembled.  Among  other  necessary  matters,  it  was  resolved 
that  on  the  coming  15th  of  September,  a  day  of  repentance,  prayer 
and  thanksgiving  should  be  observed  in  all  our  United  Evangelical 
Churches  of  Swedish,  German  and  Hollandish  nationality,  and  that 


SEVENTH  CONVENTION,  1754.  43 

I  Sam.  7:  12  be  taken  for  the  introduction,  and  Joel  2:  12-17  as  the 
text  for  the  sermon.  May  the  Lord  seal  it  with  His  blessing,  for  His 
Name's  sake ! 

V. 

[Halle  Doc.  I.  499.   Muhlenberg  to  Prelate  Weissensee,  July  18,  1754]. 

I  was  living  in  hope  that  beneath  the  rough  shell  a  good  kernel 
might  yet  grow  under  the  influence  of  suffering  and  through  the  work- 
ing of  the  good  Spirit,  and  therefore,  with  the  consent  of  my  brethren, 
invited  him  (Mr.  Schertlin)  to  our  last  Synodical  meeting  at  New 
Hanover,  whore  he  attended  June  16  aud  17  A. a,  and  met  the  Swedish 
Provost  Acrelius  and  thirteen  United  Preachers  and  delegates  from 
Pennsylvania,  New  York,  New  Jersey  and  Maryland,  and  was  not  a 
little  astonished  that  everything  was  transacted  in  such  a  child-like, 
simple,  edifying  manner,  and  without  the  least  imperiousness  and 
ambitious  strife.     Cf.  "  Mann,  Life  of  Muhlenberg,"  p.  311. 

VI. 

[Halle  Doc.  I.  483.] 

Georg  Friedrich  Hartmann,  at  our  last  Synodical  meeting  in  New 
Hanover,  without  our  request,  handed  in  a  writing  and  offered  to 
establish  the  following,  concerning  M.  Engelland,  by  an  oath  before  the 
authorities,  namely :  After  his  disappearance  from  Wurttemberg  he  had 
entered  the  French  service  in  Strassburg,  became  Catholic,  deserted 
and  entered  the  Dutch  service,  and  exchanged  the  Catholic  for  the  Cal- 
vinistic  religion,  thence  he  went  to  the  Spanish  Netherlands,  etc. 


CONVENTIONS   EIGHT   TO   TWELVE. 


[These  conventions  exist  in  the  reckoning  of  the  Ministerium  only 
upon  paper,  since  during  the  years  1755-9  the  meetings  were  aban- 
doned.] 


THIRTEENTH  CONVENTION. 

1760. 

October  19,  20. 


I. 

[Letter  of  Muhlenberg  to  Rev.  Gerock,  of  Lancaster.    MS.  in  Muh- 
lenberg's Diary,  in  Archives.] 

Rev.  and  Dear  Brother :  I  take  the  liberty  to  announce  that,  God 
willing,  on  October  19th  and  20th  next,  viz. :  on  the  Twentieth  Sunday- 
after  Trinity,  the  Holy  Supper  will  be  administered,  and  on  the  follow- 
ing Monday  a  fraternal  Pastoral  Conference  will  be  held  here  in  New 
Providence.  The  reasons  it  is  unnecessary  to  state  at  length  to  any 
regularl)r-called  minister  who  has  at  heart  the  welfare  of  our  poor 
ecclesia  plantanda  in  the  American  wilderness,  for  to  him  they  are 
already  sufficiently  known ;  much  less  is  it  necessary  to  present  the 
motive,  since  letters  received  from  you  several  years  ago  make  the 
strongest  appeal  and  contain  the  strongest  arguments  for  such  a  frater- 
nal meeting,  and  I  have  not  forgotten  them.  The  manner  of  conduct- 
ing the  Conference  will  be  determined  by  those  present  according  to  the 
meekness  and  humility  which  they  have  each  learned  in  following  Christ, 
and  the  willingness  they  show  to  apply  the  gifts  of  the  one  Spirit  given 
them  to  the  good  of  the  whole.  All  ambitious  rivalry  will  be  far  dis- 
tant, and  he  who  will  humble  himself  as  the  child,  Matt.  18 :  4,  will  be 
the  greatest.  The  advantages  are  manifold,  and  are  best  known  to 
those  who  have  had  experience,  whether  in  Europe  or  here.  And 
although  in  this  country  we  are  mostly,  and  often  too  much,  dependent 
upon  the  vox  populi,  and  are  at  a  great  distance  from  our  European 
mother-church,  and  are  contending  against  many  sorrows  and  tempta- 
tions, and  have  many  pia  desideria,  nevertheless  I  hope  that  we  poor 
preachers  may  at  least  have  such  freedom  in  our  congregations  as  to  be 
able  now  and  then  to  meet,  to  tell  to  one  another  our  troubles,  to  partake 
of  the  Lord's  Supper  together,  to  decide  on  cases  of  conscience,  to  edify 
and  comfort  one  another  with  accounts  concerning  the  progress  of  the 
Kingdom  of  God,  and  to  afford  mutual  encouragement  under  difficult 
official  burdens.     The  congregations  can  have  less  objection  to  this  if 

44 


TIIIKTEENTII  CONVENTION,  1760.  45 

for  this  time  we  ask  no  delegates,  but  only  hold  a  preacher's  Conference, 
every  well-disposed  member,  however,  being  at  liberty  to  come  and  be  a 
spectator  and  listener  during  our  proceedings,  and  being  also  invited  to 
partake  of  our  humble  hospitality.  The  ministers  whom  we  expect  to 
attend  this  meeting,  some  of  whom  have  advised  it,  are  the  following : 
1.  Mr.  de  Wrangel,  Swedish  Provost  at  Wicaco,  court  preacher  to  His 
Majesty  the  King  of  Sweden,  Doctor  of  Theology,  a  man  who  has  the 
welfare  of  our  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church  at  heart,  and,  what  is 
best  of  all,  who  has,  under  oratio,  ientalio,  et  meditatio,  learnt  meekness 
and  humility  of  heart  in  the  school  of  Jesus  Christ.  2.  Mr.  Borell,  pastor 
of  Wilmington.  3.  Mag.  and  Pastor  Gerock,  of  Lancaster.  4.  Pastor 
Weygand,  of  New  York,  if  God,  health  and  weather  permit.  5.  Pastor 
Handschuh,  of  Philadelphia,  if  his  circumstances  permit.  6.  Rev. 
Hausihl,  of  Reading,  and  the  rest  of  us  from  the  country.  I  have  no 
doubt  that  you  will  do  us  the  honor  and  give  us  the  pleasure  of  your 
personal  presence.  You  are  willing,  I  know,  if  nothing  important 
happens  to  hinder  you.  Satan  and  his  allies  have  often  tried,  and  will 
continue  to  try,  to  prevent  such  fraternal  union,  because  united  power 
is  stronger,  and  is  harmful  to  his  kingdom.  But  if  a  Stronger  One 
abide  within  us,  there  will  be  no  danger.  In  case  you  definitely  decide 
to  come,  my  humble  request  is  that  you  select  a  text  for  the  chief  ser- 
mon on  the  Twentieth  Sunday  after  Trinity,  suitable  to  admonish  us 
preachers  of  our  pastoral  duties,  etc.,  but  so  that  the  people  may  also 
gain  a  lesson.  As  I  do  not  understand  your  present  Church  Constitu- 
tion, I  have  in  my  simplicity  sent  with  this  letter  a  few  lines  to  your 
honorable  Church  Council ;  but  I  leave  it  entirely  to  your  mature  judg- 
ment whether  to  hand  the  letter  to  them  or  to  withhold  it,  as  you  find 
best,  and  remain 

Your  servant, 

H.  Muhlenberg. 

New  Providence,  September  24,  1760. 

II. 

October  19, ,  Providence. 

[MS.  in  Archives.    HALLEScnENACHRicnTEN.     o.  e.  854  fl.    Halle  Doc. 

121-67.] 

Saturday,  October  18, 1760,  there  arrived  at  my  house  first,  Mr.  Paul 
Bryzelius,  of  whose  conferences  with  Mr  de  Wrangel  with  reference  to 
his  circumstances  we  had  been  informed  ;  2.  afterwards  Mr.  Win.  Kurtz, 
Junior,  Cathechist  from  Tohickon  ;  3.  Mr.  M.  Gerock.  Pastor  of  Lancas- 
ter, with  Esq.  Kuhn  and  Mr.  John  Schwab  ;  4.  Mr.  Nicolaus  Kurtz,  Sr., 


46  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Pastor  of  Tulpehocken ;  5.  Mr.  Hausihl,  Pastor  of  Reading,  etc.,  with  an 
Elder,  Mr.  Peter  Weiser ;  6.  Mr.  Albertus  Weygand,  Pastor  of  New  York, 
with  a  Low  German  Deacon  and  Captain  as  companion  ;  7.  In  the  even- 
ing about  7  o'clock,  we  had  the  pleasure  of  also  welcoming  Provost 
Wrangel  de  Saga.  Many  matters  pertaining  to  the  Kingdom  of  the 
Cross  and  a  spirit  of  harmony  banished  the  weariness  of  traveling,  and 
caused  us  to  sit  up  until  3  o'clock  at  night. 

Sunday,  October  19,  early,  the  preachers  and  elders,  among  whom 
also  appeared  Mr.  Caspar  Stover,  Preacher,  as  an  uninvited  guest,  and 

Mr.  Fr. ,  from  Upper  Saccum",  an  invited  catechist,  came  together. 

After  they  had,  with  thanksgiving,  partaken  of  nourishment  for  soul  and 
body  from  Bogatzky's  "  Schatzkastlein"  and  my  patriarchal  household, 
they  all  went  to  the  church,  and  took  their  seats  quietly  without  contention 
as  to  rank.  The  Provost  opened  the  service  in  presence  of  a  large 
assembly,  with  the  133d  Psalm  :  "  Behold,  how  good  and  how  pleasant 
it  is  for  brethren  to  dwell  together  in  unity ! "  Then  "  Komm,  Heiliger 
Geist,  Herre  Gott"  etc.,  was  sung.  After  the  hymn,  Pastor  Kurtz, 
Sen  ,  read  the  Confessional  Prayer,  baptized  children,  and  read  the 
Epistle  and  Gospel  for  the  Twentieth  Sunday  after  Trinity.  Then  Mr. 
Gerock,  Pastor  of  Lancaster,  went  into  the  pulpit,  and  preached  a 
sermon  well  suited  to  the  festival  occasion,  as  thorough  as  it  was  edify- 
ing, and  seasoned  with  salt,  the  text  being  the  Gospel  lesson,  Matth.  22 : 
1-14.  "  Of  the  right  relation  between  ministers  and  congregations, 
(hearers),  or  shepherds  and  sheep.  I.  How  true  servants  of  God  are  to 
act  toward  the  congregations  entrusted  to  them,  and  II.  How  the  con- 
gregations, toward  their  faithful  pastors  and  teachers."  This  important 
subject  was  treated  in  a  live  (and  charming)  manner  plane  et  plene, 
and  ended  with  a  fervent  prayer.  After  the  Litany  the  assembly  was 
dismissed  by  the  Provost. 

In  the  afternoon  the  Provost  edified  the  assembly  then  present  in 
the  church  with  an  English  sermon  on  Acts  24 :  24,  25,  and  set  forth : 
"  The  unhappy  efforts  made  by  obstinate  sinners  to  defeat  (abzukehren)  the 
gracious  visitations  of  God,  or  the  workings  of  the  Spirit  of  God  in  their 
souls."  This  exceedingly  important  theme,  which  is  closely  allied  to  that 
of  the  Gospel  lesson,  was  very  thoroughly,  clearly,  convincingly  and  earn- 
estly inculcated,  and  especially  emphasized  in  the  application,  so  that  it 
could  be  of  profit  not  only  to  the  ministers  present,  but  also  to  the  listen- 
ers, and  especially  to  the  Swedes  who  live  dispersed  about  here,  and  had 
come  from  sixteen,  seventeen  or  eighteen  miles.  After  the  end  of  the 
second  service,  the  assembled  preachers  had  a  Collegium  Bibliciim  in 
jny  house,  which  continued  for  two  hours,  about  the  essentials  of  the 
conversion  of  the  heart,  in  which  they  edified  one  another,  as  well  as 


THIRTEENTH  CONVENTION,  1760.  47 

they  could,  with  the  fruits  of  their  self-examination  and  experience, 
according  to  the  grace  and  gifts  they  had  received.  It  was  a  pleasure 
and  joy  to  the  heart  in  the  Holy  Spirit. 

The  evening  was  ended  in  an  edifying  way,  in  the  use  of  spiritual 
hymns,  and  in  conversations  concerning  the  internal  affairs  of  our  con- 
gregations. So  short  and  insufficient  did  it  seem,  that  it  was  not  until 
three  or  four  hours  after  midnight,  that  we  allowed  our  bodies  the  sleep 
that  was  their  due.  Oh,  if  poor  souls,  on  this  side  of  eternity,  who  have 
been  barely  awakened  from  the  sleep  of  death,  and  have  tasted  scarcely 
a  drop  of  the  grace  obtained  by  the  Saviour's  blood,  while  still,  like  pil- 
grims on  a  journey,  in  the  vale  of  tears,  and  burdened  with  a  mortal 
body  the  abode  of  numberless  faults  and  weaknesses,  that  weary  and 
discourage  them,  and  while  surrounded  on  all  sides  by  legions  of  wily 
enemies  from  the  kingdom  of  darkness,  in  a  world  which,  gradu  super- 
laiivo,  lies  in  evil,  and,  as  strangers,  are  subject  to  peculiar  tempta- 
tions,— if  such  persons,  under  such  circumstances,  can  find  so  much 
pleasure,  even  here,  in  harmonious-  conversation,  what  must  it  be  in 
Heaven ! 

Oh,  how  well  it  is  if  preachers  keep  themselves  undisturbed  by  polit- 
ical matters  of  party  and  strife,  seek  to  please  their  Lord  and  Master 
Jesus  Christ,  and  have  at  heart  the  true  welfare  of  their  Church  and  of 
the  souls  entrusted  to  them ;  and  therefore  are  willing  to  suffer  shame 
with  the  people  of  God,  rather  than  choose  the  treasures  of  Egypt ! 

Monday,  Oct.  20,  early,  the  matter  concerning  the  above-mentioned 
Mr.  Bryzelius  was  taken  up,  and  in  the  following  manner: 

(Here  in  the  MS.  follows  a  sketch  of  Bryzelius's  life.) 

After  several  conversations  he  made  the  following  declaration  (which 
is  to  be  published  to  all  our  congregations)  with  his  own  hand  and 
signature  before  the  assembly  : 

Since  I,  the  undersigned,  have  for  sufficient  and  convincing  reasons 
voluntarily  left  the  erroneous  teaching  and  government  of  the  so-called 
Moravian  Brethren,  and  afterwards  at  my  earnest  request  and  desire, 
the  honorable  Evangelical  Lutheran  Ministerium,  of  Swedish  and  High 
German  nationality  in  Pennsylvania  has  received  me  into  its  fellowship 
and  Church  ;  therefore,  I  herewith  promise  with  sincere  heart,  before 
God  the  Searcher  of  hearts,  in  my  ministry  of  the  Synod  hereafter  to  be 
rendered  in  these  congregations,  to  teach  nothing  except  what  is  well 
founded  on  the  Canonical  Books  of  the  Old  and  New  Testaments;  to 
conform  in  all  my  sermons,  public  and  private  instruction  and  in  the 
administration  of  the  Holy  Sacraments  to  our  Symbolical  Books,  as  also 
in  true  obedience  to  submit  to  the  Church  Order  and  directions  of  the 
above-mentioned  most  honorable  Ministerium.     In  testimony  and  con- 


48  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

firmation  of  this,  I  have  attached  the  signature  of  my  name  with  my 

own  hand. 

Paul  D.  Bryzelius. 
New  Providence,  October  20,  A.  Chr.  1760. 

Signed  and  delivered  in  presence  of  the  Ministerium,  of  which  the 
following  members  sign  as  witnesses : 

C.  M.  Wrangel, 

S.  S.  Th.  D.  et  Missionis  Luth.  Suec.  propositus. 
Henry  Muhlenberg, 

Sen.  Min. 
Johann  Siegfried  Gerock, 

Pastor  Lancastriensis. 

After  Mr.  Bryzelius  had  solemnly  made  this  declaration,  he  was 
received  into  our  fellowship  by  the  members  of  the  United  Ministerium 
present  with  prayer  and  a  hearty  benediction,  and  he  was  exhorted 
to  pray  God  and  Christ  for  all  needful  grace  and  strength  for  his  future 
service,  and  thereby,  in  all  faithfulness,  to  win  as  many  souls,  and  even 
more,  for  the  true  Saviour  of  the  world,  as  he  had  previously  led  to 
Antichrist  and  his  plans.  He  promised,  by  God's  grace  and  mercy  in 
Christ,  to  do  and  suffer  all  that  was  possible,  and  requested  that  we 
should  not  put  too  much  upon  him,  but  help  him  to  pray,  in  order  that 
a  way  of  escape  may  not  be  closed  for  the  thousands  of  poor  souls  who 
groan  under  the  yoke  of  the  taskmaster,  but  that  all  things  may  be  done 
gradually  with  fitting  wisdom.1 

Hereupon  Pastor  Handschuh  arrived  with  three  elders  from  his 
congregation.  On  the  day  before,  he  had  held  services  in  Philadelphia 
and  then  had  a  funeral,  and  although  they  had  started  in  the  afternoon 
they  could  not  reach  our  house.  Finally  Deacon  Schaum  also  arrived 
from  New  Hanover.  "We  had  also  invited  Mr.  Schertlin,  and  had  his 
promise  that  he  would  attend  the  Conference  on  October  20th,  if  it  were 
at  all  possible,  as  before  he  had  received  the  invitation  to  the  meeting, 
he  had  promised  to  administer  Holy  Communion  to  the  scattered 
members  some  fifty  to  sixty  miles  away  on  the  day  preceding.  About 
9  o'clock  a.m.  the  Conference  was  opened  with  prayer,  the  following 
being  present:  1.  Provost  Wrangel.  2.  Rev.  Mr.  Handschuh.  3. 
Rev.  Mr.  Gerock.  4.  Rev.  Mr.  Weygand.  5.  Rev.  Mr.  Kurtz,  Sr.  6. 
Rev.  Mr.  Hausihl.  7.  Adjunct  Mr  Schaum.  8.  Adjunct  Mr.  Kurtz, 
Jr.  9.  Catechist  Mr.  Fr .  10.  Mr  Bryzelius.  11,  Heinrich  Muhlen- 
berg.   12.  Two  captains  from  New  York.    13.  Three  elders  from  Phila- 

1  Parts  of  this  are  suppressed  in  H.  N.,  and  are  here  restored  from  Halle  MS. 


THIRTEENTH   CONVENTION,  1700.  49 

delphia.  14.  A  justice  of  the  peace  and  another  elder  from  Lancaster, 
and  Peter  Weiser  from  Beading.     Mr.  Handschuh  communicated  the 

orders  received  from  j\Ir.  Ziegenhagen.)  The  following  questions  were 
brought  before  the  meeting  for  consideration  and  decision,  and  were 
answered  by  votes: 

1.  Whether  it  be  necessary  and  advantageous  that  an  annual  meeting  of 
tlw  regular  ministers  of  one  Church  and  Confession  be  held  in  America  Z1 

Answer, per  vota:  It  is  necessary  and  advantageous  that  the  laborers 
of  one  Master  and  one  vineyard  learn  to  know  each  other,  even  unite 
themselves  more  closely  in  love  toward  one  purpose,  discuss  together 
whatever  can  benefit  the  ecclesia plantanda,  and  extend  the  Christian 
religion ;  that  each,  according  to  the  grace  granted,  offer  the  gift  re- 
ceived  for  the  good  of  all;  that  they  encourage,  exhort,  comfort  one 
another,  decide  cases  of  conscience,  in  love,  simplicity,  humility  and 
meekness ;  discover  and  correct  otherwise  unknown  faults ;  also  remove 
dissatisfaction,  strife  and  suspicion.  A  kingdom  that  is  divided  against 
itself  cannot  abide.  The  unity  and  harmony  of  spirit  among  ministers 
of  one  confession  makes  a  great  impression  on  the  minds  of  those  who 
listen  to  them  (of  friends  and  foes  [II.  N.]).  Besides  the  preachers 
who  wander  about  unordained  and  uncalled,  a  disgrace  to  our  religion, 
are  thereby  checked  to  some  extent ;  the  opportunity  for  slander  by 
hostile  parties  is  limited ;  the  intended  temple  otherwise  becomes  a 
Babel,  and  the  door  is  only  opened  wider  to  Satan  and  his  apostles.  On 
such  occasions,  the  young  preachers  might  profit  by  the  experience  of 
the  older  men,  etc.,  etc.  (For  these  reasons  the  meeting  is  to  be  retained. 
[II.  N,]) 

(Before  a  certain  preacher  present  gave  his  vote,  he  was  addressed 
[by  Muhlenberg]  as  follows  :  Rev.  Sir  :  A  rumor  is  widely  circulated, 
that  you  have  sinned  against  the  Sixth  Commandment.  Now,  we,  indeed, 
all  know  from  personal  experience,  that  even  upright  preachers  are,  in 
tlii-  entirely  too  free  country,  made  objects  of  scandal  and  calumny  by 
Satan  and  his  followers.  Although,  therefore,  our  meeting  has  nothing 
to  do  with  judicial  matters  that  belong  to  the  forum  juridicum,  and  we 
cannot  put  heart  and  mind  to  the  test,  yet  it  becomes  our  duty  to 
ask,  in  a  brotherly  way,  whether  the  rumor  have  any  foundation,  or 
whether  it  can  be  proved  to  be  false  and  untrue?  You  will  not  be 
offended  that  we  ask;  for  if  such  or  similar  scandal  that  incapacitates 
Bee  could  be  proved  to  be  founded  on  truth  in  reference  to  me  or 
any  member  of  this  assembly,  he  must  be  excluded,  etc.     Response: 

1  Whether  it  \<  necessary  and  advantageous  that  an  annual  general  assemb'y  of 
ministers  ami  delegated  elders  be  continued  in  the  United  German  Congregations? 
[II.  N] 


50  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

"  I  have  many  enemies,  who  do  their  best  to  bring  injury  upon  me,  but 
I  have  never  desired  to  answer  evil  with  evil.  But  as  this  rumor  also 
circulated  in  my  congregation,  at  the  suggestion  of  the  elders,  I  had  to 
have  the  matter  investigated  by  the  authorities,  and  consequently  have 
a  written  document  to  submit."  Hereupon  the  accused  minister  drew 
forth  a  document,  which  was  read  and  heard  by  all  those  present ;  the 
contents  were  briefly  the  following :  that  a  certain  woman  had  appeared 
before  one  of  His  Majesty's  justices,  and  on  her  solemn  oath  declared 
that  the  above  rumor  was  altogether  false,  and  that  the  preacher  men- 
tioned had  never  asked  anything  sinful  or  dishonorable  of  her. 
The  justice  from  Lancaster  and  several  others  testified  that  the  judge 
who  had  investigated  this  matter,  and  attested  it  with  his  hand,  was  an 
intelligent  and  impartial  man,  and  the  investigation  of  a  magistrate  of 
this  kind  must  be  believed  rather  than  hostile  rumors,  etc.)1 

Question  2.  What  are  the  impediments  which  make  a  fraternal  meet- 
ing and  union  difficult,  or  even  hinder  it  entirely  t  Response :  Satan  is 
indeed  the  chief  author  who,  as  long  as  he  can,  casts  impediments  in 
our  way  and  hinders  us,  to  the  advantage  of  his  kingdom.  One  men- 
tioned especially  that  for  some  years  rumors  had  been  spread  and  kept 
up  among  the  people  in  the  country,  that  the  preachers  sent  from  Halle 
were  Pietists,  secret  Zinzendorfians,  teachers  of  error,  no  true  Lutherans, 
but  seducers  and  dangerous  people,  etc. 

Muhlenberg's  Response :  "  We  are  regularly  called,  examined,  or- 
dained, and  sent ;  for  eighteen  years  we  have  publicly  taught,  so  that 
intelligent  hearers  have  had  sufficient  opportunity  to  test  our  doctrine 
and  life.  But  if  anybody  in  this  meeting  yet  retains  any  doubt  as  to 
our  call,  doctrine  or  conduct,  I  am  willing  to  be  the  first  to  substantiate 
his  claims  with  proofs  and  credentials,  or  will  gladly  be  examined  before 
such  as  have  the  authority."  Response:  "The  rumor  is  current  only 
among  the  ignorant  people,  and  was  brought  from  Lancaster  to  Phila- 
delphia, to  wit,  by  Rev.  Nyberg,  who  publicly  said  at  the  very  first 
conference  in  the  Swedish  Church  at  Wicaco,  that  the  Halle  men  were 
Pietists  and  no  true  Lutherans,  etc.  From  which  the  origin  and  the 
consequence  can  be  judged  and  therefore  no  further  proof  and  exami- 
nation is  necessary."  Muhlenberg  confirmed  the  statement  that  Nyberg 
had  done  this.  For  when  the  preachers  sent  from  Halle  took  the  field 
against  the  Zinzendorfians,  the  latter  had  no  other  weapon,  butthat  they 
made  the  people  believe  that  the  Halle  men  were  Pietists  and  false 
Lutherans.  When  they  opposed  the  wandering,  so-called  Lutheran 
preachers  who  came  of  their  own  accord  and  live  scandalously,  these 
knew  no  better  way  of  defending  themselves  than  that  they  fed  the 
1  Suppressed  in  H.  N.     Restored  from  MS.  at  Halle. 


THIRTEENTH  CONVENTION,  1760.  51 

poor,  ignorant  people  with  wicked  lies,  and  told  them  that  the  Halle 
mm  were  Becret  Zinzendorfians  and  would,  in  due  time,  bring  the  people 
under  the  yoke  of  Zinzendorfism.  When  we,  therefore,  preached  to  the 
people  of  change  of  heart,  living  faith  and  godliness,  the  people  who 
loved  sin  and  the  world  gladly  made  the  objection  that  we  were  Pietists, 
Moravians,  and  such  like,  carried  a  secret  poison,  etc.1 

Question  3.  Wliere  shall  the  meeting  be  held  annually  ?  Response : 
"Change  is  necessary  and  useful.  The  German  [H.  N.]  congregations 
all  have  an  equal  right,  none  is  subordinate  to  another  (or  dependent 
on  another  [H.  N.]).  Such  a  meeting  makes  a  good  impression  upon 
the  congregation  where  it  is  held  (and  encourages  it),  especially  are  the 
young  people  encouraged,  which  is  necessary  and  useful  at  all  places 
(in  all  congregations).  Next  time,  God  willing,  it  shall  (according  to 
unanimous  vote  [H.  N.])  be  held  In  Lancaster,  and,  if  possible,  in  May, 
but  so  that  it  do  not  fall  in  court  time,  and  not  on  the  27th  of  the 
month  (because  on  that  day  the  Provost  must  be  elsewhere  [PI.  N  ])." 

Question  4.  What  is  the  best  method  of  conducting  "  Kinderlehre  f  " 
Response :  "  The  same  catechism  should  be  used  in  all  the  United  Con- 
gregations. The  schools  in  the  towns  should  be  diligently  visited  by  the 
preacher.  In  the  country  provision  should  be  made  for  private  devo- 
tional exercises  and  catechisation  of  children  and  servants,  in  the 
houses,  in  presence  of  the  parents.  The  truths  should  be  taught  them 
out  of  the  Catechism,  simply,  intelligently,  impressively,  and  adapted  to 
their  capacity,  and  be  supported  by  proof-texts  from  Holy  Scripture. 
Above  all,  the  youth  should  be  objects  of  most  diligent  labor ;  they 
ought  to  be  spared  from  too  much  memorizing,  and  in  memorizing  a 
thought  the  object  should  be  that  it  be  well  analyzed  and  made  clear 
to  their  weak  intellectual  powers,  and  be  so  brought  to  them  that  it 
will  fill  not  only  the  memory,  but  also  the  other  powers  of  the  soul  with 
pleasure  and  with  life.  (Complaint  was  made  that  in  the  large  and  widely- 
BCattered  country  congregations  and  filials  little  time,  opportunity  and 
ability  remained  for  this  work, etc.)  In  visiting  at  the  houses  notice  .-liould 
be  taken  of  what  books  there  were  in  the  family,  as  harmful  ones  may 
sometimes  be  met  with.  The  Provost  said  that  in  his  visits  he  had 
made  a  table  in  which  he  wrote  the  names  of  parents,  children  and 
servants,  and  noted  their  excellencies  and  their  defects,  so  that  in  look- 
ing over  it  he  had  the  condition  of  the  whole  congregation  before 
his  eyes  (against  which  one  of  the  others  remarked  that  this  was  not 
practicable  in  large  congregations,  though  it  was  desirable  )  Fur- 
ther, one  might  now  and  then  give  the  children  who  were  most  diligent 
in  learning  a  small  gift,  which  would  encourage  them  to  greater  dili- 
1  Suppressed  in  II.  N.     Restored  from  MS.  at  Halle. 


52  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

gence.  The  remark  was  casually  made  that  the  children  in  school 
should  not  be  taught  spelling  and  reading  from  the  Testament  or  Bible, 
especially  if  they  were  scolded  or  punished  in  learning,  because  this 
occasioned  an  aversion  and  contempt  towards  the  Holy  Word  of  God,  so 
that  as  they  grow  older  they  evidence  a  dread  and  repugnance  towards 
it,  as  we  notice  in  our  daily  experience  with  old  and  young.  School- 
masters, catechists  and  teachers  must  take  care  that  the  Bible  is  presented 
to  the  children  as  the  highest  treasure  and  most  precious  gem,  and  so 
regarded  and  used  that  it  tastes  like  sugar  and  honey  to  them,  e.  g., 
if  one  gave  children  more  milk  and  bread  than  they  could  enjoy  and 
digest  they  would  spill  it,  tread  it  under  foot  or  spit  it  out  again.  Every 
man  has  indeed  a  natural  aversion  towards  divine  and  spiritual  mat- 
ters, but  this  disgust  is  certainly  increased  if  the  children  are  indis- 
creetly overfed  with  solid  food  from  the  Word  of  God,  etc.  There  are 
other  convenient  and  useful  books  to  be  found  in  which  the  children 
may  learn  to  spell  and  read.1  The  Bible  must  of  course  be  used  dili- 
gently, but  yet  as  the  holiest  of  all,  and  so  that,  when  it  is  opened 
before  the  children  they  will  feel,  according  to  their  limited  and  realistic 
conceptions  as  though  a  box  of  sweetmeats  and  all  kinds  of  delicacies  had 
been  opened  for  distribution.  (An  Elder  who  was  present,  and  did  not 
understand  it  rightly,  thought  that  we  wanted  to  banish  the  Catechism 
and  God's  Word  from  the  schools,  and  it  was  explained  to  him  more 
clearly.)  May  God  the  Lord  move  our  Fathers  in  the  European 
Mother-Church,  with  their  larger  experience  and  more  mature  judgment, 
to  teach  us  briefly  how  and  in  what  manner  the  Holy  Word  of  God 
may  obtain  the  reverence  due  it  from  old  and  young !  Books  and 
rules,  teaching,  in  general  and  specifically,  how  God's  Word  ought  to 
be  read,  regarded,  used  and  applied,  etc.,  are  indeed  not  wanting  in  our 
evangelical  church,  but  the  general  practice  shows  sufficiently  that  all  the 
rules  are  not  yet  sufficient,  but  that  the  Holy  Word  of  God,  the  richest 
treasure  and  most  precious  gem,  is  not  only  most  wickedly  buried  in  a 
napkin  by  the  Babylonian  woman,  but  even  among  learned  Protestants 
is  not  regarded  as  highly  as  the  Corpus  Juris  Romanum  is  among 
jurists,  and  is  treated  by  the  people  as  the  peddler's  sack  found  by  the 
sow.  The  Papists  actually  put  us  to  shame,  because  the  children  of 
the  world  are  wiser  than  the  children  of  the  light.  They  can  gather 
the  people  far  and  wide  with  a  bone  and  other  relics,  no  matter  where 
they  have  been  picked  up,  and  can  cause  them  to  be  honored  with 
great  reverence  as  so-called  "  sacred "  things,  and  to  be  kissed  with 
trembling,  etc.  When,  with  their  trickery,  they  show  a  "  monstrance  " 
the  people  fall  down  and  exhibit  the  greatest  reverence.  We  Protest- 
1  Here  followed  Report  in  H.  N.  much  condensed  and  altered 


THIRTEENTH  CONVENTION,   1760.  53 

ants  have  the  most  Holy  Word  of  God  in  the  original,  and  in  our 
mother  tongue,  and  regard  not  the  heavenly  gem,  but  make  an  apple 
of  discord  of  it,  etc.  There  certainly  is  some  fault  somewhere.  I  recall 
what  an  old  Bohemian  told  me  in  the  Oberlausitz:  A  hundred  and 
some  years  ago  several  Bibles  were,  through  the  gracious  Providence  of 
God,  brought  into  Bohemia  among  the  secret  Protestants.  Several 
families  kept  their  Bibles  in  secret.  The  grandfather  of  my  infor- 
mant also  had  inherited  one  of  them,  and  kept  it  concealed  in  a  secret 
place  in  the  cellar.  At  certain  times  he  had  all  his  children  and 
children's  children  come  together  as  though  he  had  prepared  a  feast  for 
them.  They  sat  together  till  late  at  night,  and,  in  order  that  the  clergy 
might  not  suspect  that  they  were  holding  Pietistic  conventicles,  pipes 
and  tobacco  were  lying  on  the  tables,  and  beer  and  brandy  stood  along, 
side,  which,  however,  were  but  little  touched,  although  they  were  the 
criteria  of  the  ignorant  orthodox  people,  and  removed  the  suspicion  of 
dangerous  heresy  or  pietism.  At  midnight  the  grandfather,  as  the 
head  of  the  family,  went  down  and  brought  up  the  treasure — the  Bible 
— in  his  bosom.  The  whole  family  sat  about  the  tables  and  waited  in 
great  attention  and  a-xoxapadoxta  to  see  and  hear  the  sacred  Book. 
The  grandfather  seated  himself  in  his  place,  drew  out  the  Bible,  kissed 
it  with  great  reverence,  pressed  it  to  his  breast,  and  could  not  restrain 
the  tears  of  joy  which  were  mingled  with  the  tears  of  the  whole  family. 
After  the  grandfather  had  shown  due  respect,  it  was  handed  to  the 
members  of  the  family,  according  to  their  ages,  and  caressed  with  equal 
reverence,  even  by  the  youngest.  After  this  some  one  who  could  do 
so,  read  a  passage  or  a  pithy  sentence  once,  twice  or  three  times,  so  that 
all  present  ate  and  drank  as  it  were  the  Word  of  life  with  great  zeal 
and  transformed  it  into  spirit  and  life.  When  this  had  been  quietly 
done  they  kissed  the  Bible  farewell,  put  it  again  to  its  secure  place  and 
walked  in  the  strength  obtained  from  this  food  until  they  again  found 
opportunity  to  make  a  feast,  and  also  after  the  meal,  showed  the  divine 
power  and  fruit  of  faith  in  a  godly  life  and  conversation,1  and  propa- 
gated the  Christian  religion  in  such  manner  that,  notwithstanding  all 
the  trickery  and  malice  of  Satan  and  his  following  directed  against  it, 
it  lias  not  quite  been  destroyed  even  to  the  present  day.  O!  that  we 
might  treat  the  Word  of  God  as  God's  Word,  use  it  as  it  deserves, 
Bad  believe,  teach  and  live  in  accordance  with  the  same,  while  it  is  yet 
day,  before  the  darkness  comes  upon  us  ! 

We  ought  also  be  supplied  with  small  books  in  which  divine  work- 
ings of  grace  (Gnadenzuge  u.  Wirkungeii)  on  little  children  are  rec- 

1  (They  found  contradictions*  apparamla,  neither  in  the  Old  Testament  nor  in 
the  New,  but  only  the  Word  of  Life  [Halle  Doc.]). 


54  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

orded ;  for  good,  edifying  and  easily  understood  examples  most  readily 
impress  the  tender  hearts  of  children.  I  have  before  now  seen  one  of 
this  kind  translated  from  English  into  German,  but  could  not  get  it  in 
this  country.  HCw  useful  such  little  tracts  prepared  cum  grano  sails, 
would  be  in  our  schools.1  If  nothing  is  accomplished  with  the  children, 
the  best  opportunity  is  lost.     Matth.  18 :  10." 

Question  5.  What  is  the  best  method  of  preaching  f  Response : 
The  Provost  begins  service  an  hour  earlier,  goes  through  a  passage  of 
the  New  Testament,  e.  g.  the  Gospel  according  to  St.  Matthew,  ana/ytice, 
exegetice  and  applicative.  The  sermon  is  well  thought  out,  composed 
and  digested  beforehand,  and  lasts  about  three-quarters  of  an  hour. 
Afterwards,  he  asks  his  hearers  what  they  have  specially  noted  and 
remembered  of  it,  points  out  to  them  the  nervum  probandi  in  the  proof 
texts  used,  and  shows  how  they  must  be  applied  in  secunda  persona. 

Another  says  that  he  has  also  done  this  in  the  country  congregations, 
preached  a  half  or  three-quarters  of  an  hour,  and  then  gone  over  it 
with  the  congregation  and  made  more  direct  applications. 

One  should  not  affect  erudition,  but  come  to  the  level  of  the  people, 
not  strike  at  the  air,  or  use  low  phrases,  teach  non  multa,  sed  multum, — 
one  fundamental  truth,  briefly  explained,  thoroughly  approved  and 
immediately  applied  ;  not  dryly,  but  practically ;  represent  the  Christian 
religion  not  as  a  burden,  but  as  a  pleasure — in  the  application  avoid 
personalities — not  allow  the  love  of  Jesus  to  be  colored  and  dimmed  by 
the  root  of  self  love,  when  hurt  by  some  one — distinguish  between  per- 
son and  thing — personal  matters  should  be  settled  privately  during 
pastoral  visits,  and  not  be  brought  into  the  pulpit.  Elenchus  must  not 
therefore  be  neglected. — Rightly  formulate  the  thesis,  but  do  not  forget 
the  antithesis ; — for  since  our  church  members  dwell  among  all  kinds  of 
parties  and  unfriendly  sects,  polemics  must  also  be  treated,  yet  without 
mentioning  names,  and  as  Doctor  and  Professsor  Anthon  did,  so  that 
the  unholy  founts  of  all  heresy  and  sectism  are  exhibited,  and  we  still 
remain  humble  and  moderate. — As  many  parties  dwell  together,  inter- 
marry and  have  relations  of  business  and  life  one  with  another,  a  danger- 
ous indifferentism  is  easily  occasioned  ;  therefore  it  is  necessary  at  times 
to  point  out  the  differences,  as  otherwise  the  suspicion  of  indifference 
may  also  fall  upon  the  preacher — The  moral  condition  of  the  members 
ought  to  be  diligently  investigated,  and  be  used  to  guide  our  homiletics 
— Above  all  to  sow  with  tears !  and  have  the  edification  of  each  indi- 
vidual at  heart,  and  take  care  unto  ourselves  and  unto  the  doctrine. 

Question  6.  What  advantages  are  to  be  noticed  in  the  Holy  Communion  f 

Response :  "  The  doctrine  of  Holy  Communion  must  be  diligently  taught, 
1  Latter  paragraphs  not  iu  H.  N. 


THIRTEENTH  CONVENTION,  17G0.  55 

correctly  explained  and  well  impressed.  Dr.  Fresenius's  small  book 
for  Confession  and  Communion  is  excellent.  The  doctrine  is  often  ex- 
pounded too  dryly,  too  legalistically,  too  gently,  in  too  lofty  or  in  too 
undignified  a  manner.  When  it  is  rightly  understood  and  placed 
where  our  Most  Gracious  Saviour  placed  it,  it  is  a  most  comforting  part 
of  the  Order  of  Grace,  a  help  in  conversion,  the  closest  application  of 
atonement,  an  essential  part  of  the  New  Covenant,  a  treasure  above 
all  treasures.  The  Swedish  members  formerly  had  excessively  legalistic 
ideas,  ami  some  shrank  from  it  until  their  old  age  or  upon  their  death 
beds  ;  but  now  that  they  have  been  better  informed,  they  come  weeping 
ami  praying  and  ask  for  it.  The  High  Germans  are  mostly  hyper- 
evangelical  in  this  matter,  and  in  using  the  Lord's  Supper  they  pre- 
sume upon  their  justification  before  God  and  men  without  repentance 
and  faith ;  this,  however,  is  opposed  by  our  testimony.  The  Lord's 
Supper  is  announced  beforehand  in  all  the  United  Congregations. 
In  the  towns,  the  members  have  sufficient  opportunity  to  give  in 
their  names  on  week-days,  and  confer  with  their  pastors  privately  con- 
cerning the  condition  of  their  souls,  and  to  settle  strife,  etc.,  with  the 
help  of  the  Church  Council,  if  it  is  necessary.  But,  in  the  country, 
where  the  people  sometimes  live  ten  to  fifteen  miles  from  the  ehurch, 
must  cross  streams  of  water,  are  poor  and  have  no  horses  to  ride,  or  are 
servants  of  harsh  and  ill-disposed  parties,  it  is  with  difficulty  that  they 
can  be  gotten  together  on  Saturday  for  announcement  and  preparation. 
Such  far  distant  and  poor  people  or  servants  should  come  on  Sunday 
morning  early,  announce  themselves,  confess,  and  afterwards  receive  the 
Communion  with  the  rest.  It  was  suggested  that  such  members  should 
rather  be  spoken  to  one  or  more  Sundays  before,  instructed  and  pre- 
pared, so  that  the  pastor  might  at  least  have  a  better  opportunity  to 
learn  the  condition  of  their  souls." 

Question  7.  Whether  preachers  should  be  present  at,  or  absent  them- 
selrr*  from  marriage  feasts  f 

1  !•  -ponse :  "Several  well-meaning  parents  and  young  people  have  earn- 
estly requested  that  their  ministers  should  be  with  them  at  the  marriage 
feast ;  and  they  have  been  there  and  spent  the  day  in  edifying  dis- 
course and  the  singing  of  spiritual  hymns.  Other  parents  have  made 
the  same  request,  and  it  has  been  granted  them.  As  long  as  the 
preacher  was  present,  everything  was  quiet  and  respectable.  But  as 
soon  as  he  had  turned  his  back,  the  people  carried  on  their  calf-worship, 
with  dancing  and  other  disorders,  and  then  it  was  reported  around  the 
country,  that  the  preacher  too  was  at  the  wedding.  The  unanimous 
advice  was,  that  the  preachers  should  rather  stay  away  enlirely,  since  at 
such  times  there  was  little  good  to  be  done,  as  the  people  occupied  them- 


56  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

selves  more  with  material  and  visible  matters  than  with  spiritual.  How. 
ever,  each  is  free  to  attend  in  special  cases,  where  it  may  be  necessary 
and  advantageous,  although  more  could  be  accomplished  in  a  house  of 
mourning.  In  cases  where  the  preacher  is  required  to  perform  the  cere- 
mony in  the  house,  he  can  without  harm,  take  something  as  he  needs 
it,  and  then  withdraw."  ' 

Question  8.  Should  not  a  President  of  the  Ministerium  be  elected 
annually,  and  be  charged  with  the  duty  of  visiting  all  the  United  Congre- 
gations, and  attending  the  Swedish  synodical  meetings  as  delegate? 
Response  :    "  Yes,"  unanimously.2 

After  this,  Pastor  Handschuh  and  several  elders,  who  had  on  the 
evening  before  lodged  in  the  same  house  with  Rev.  Caspar  Stover  and 
had  talked  with  him,  stated  that  Mr.  Stover  was  offended  because  we 
had  not  invited  him,  and  when  he  had  joined  us  yesterday  we  had 
treated  him  so  coldly,  although  he  sought  nothing  else  than  Christian 
fraternal  fellowship  in  his  old  age,  and  would  like  to  have  the  congre- 
gations which  he  yet  served  prosper  after  his  death.  Answer  was  made 
that  in  1753  he  had  been  at  the  synodical  meeting  in  Tulpehocken, 
and  afterwards  had  greatly  abused  the  privilege,  and  even  in  the  pre- 
ceding year  had  treated  several  members  of  the  Ministerium  unfairly; 
and  as  to  the  cold  treatment,  we  did  not  know  how  to  do  better  than  we 
had  done,  since  he  was  at  our  two-hour  private  conference  last  evening 
and  heard  the  most  valuable  practical  truths,  and  also  joined  in  the 
conversation  himself.  If,  in  the  meantime,  he  would  conduct  himself 
in  a  Christian  manner,  and  we  could  in  any  degree  see  that  it  would 
be  an  advantage  to  all,  and  especially  to  him,  he  might  be  invited  next 
time,  God  willing. 

Pastor  Handschuh  then  read  a  letter  from  a  young  preacher, 
Schwerdtfeger  by  name,  in  which  he  complained  bitterly  because  we 
had  not  invited  him.  He  has  married  the  daughter  of  a  well-meaning 
elder  who  was  present  from  the  Lancaster  congregation  ;  he  came  into 
this  country  without  a  call,  and  without  authority  received  ordination 
from  several  like  himself,  at  which  the  Provost  was  very  much  sur- 
prised and  grieved. 

Thus  was  the  Conference  for  this  time  ended  in  love,  peace  and  unity, 
and  closed  with  prayer  and  thanksgiving.  In  the  afternoon,  at  about 
three  o'clock,  the  Ministerium  began  to  examine  the  younger  Mr.  Wil- 
liam Kurtz,  since  Pastor  Kurtz,  Sr.,  desired  to  have  him  as  assistant 
in  his  filials,  and  requested  that  he  be  therefore  publicly  examined, 
and,  if  it  were  found  advisable,  ordained.      After  a  prayer,  he  was 

1  Much  condensed  in  H.  N. 

2  Suppressed  in  H.  N. 


THIETEENTH   CONVENTION,   1760.  67 

required  to  open  the  Greek  Testament  to  the  third  chapter  of  I  Cor- 
inthians and  explain  it  in  Latin,  which  was  done  satisfactorily  without 
hesitation.  Afterwards  the  117th  Psalm  was  given  to  him  in  Hebrew, 
and  he  was  asked  to  translate  it  into  Latin,  ex  tempore,  according  to 
the  genuine  literal  sense,  which  again  was  done  readily  and  skilfully. 
Further,  lie  was  also  required  to  treat  the  second  Psalm  similarly. 
The  Provost  was  pleased,  and  said  that  he  had  not  suspected  anything 
like  this  in  Pennsylvania,  and  began  to  examine  him  in  theology  in 
Latin.  Mr.  IVL  Gerock  followed  the  Provost,  and  examined  the  candi- 
date in  difficult  theological  questions.  Further,  Pastor  Handschuh 
among  other  questions,  asked  him,  what  are  the  criteria  or  charaderes 
of  a  true  servant  of  Jesus  Christ?  Pastor  Hausihl  tested  him  with 
various  questions  in  Polemics.  Pastor  Weygand  argued  with  him  on 
Beveral  articles  in  Theology.  After  the  examination  he  was  required 
to  withdraw,  in  order  that  the  Ministerium  might  declare  their  opinion, 
which  was  as  follows:  1.  Provost:  "  Very  good."  2.  Mr.  Weygand: 
-  Wry  good  "  3.  Mr.  Handschuh  :  "  Good."  4.  Mr.  Gerock  :  "  Pie 
has  sufficient  foundation  ;  he  must  be  diligent  in  practice  and  build  upon 
it."  5.  Mr.  Hausihl:  Same  as  Mr.  Gerock.  6.  Mr.  Schaum:  "Good.'' 
7.  Mr.  Bryzelius:  "Very  good."  Hereupon  Latin  questions  were 
handed  him  which  he  was  to  answer  in  writing.  The  ordination  is 
p  istponed  to  another  time,  when  it  shall  be  held  publicly. 

In  the  evening  the  election  of  a  President  was  held  per  plurima  vota, 
which  were  as  follows: 

No.  1.  "  Prseses  esto,  Rev.  Mr.  Muhlenberg."  No.  2.  "Pastor  Muhl- 
enberg." No.  3.  "Senior  Myhlenberg."  No.  4.  "  S.  T.,  Mr.  Muhlen- 
berg, Sr."  No.  5.  "Senior  Muhlenberg:  Votum  Weygand."  No.  6. 
"II.  Muhlenberg."  No.  7.  "Senior  Muhlenberg  —  Kurtz."  No.  8. 
"  Dn  Sen.  Muhlenberg  :  Si  omnes  consentiunt,  ego  non  dissentio."  No. 
9.  "  P.  Muhlenberg." 

After  the  business  was  finished,  the  ministers  and  elders  present  were 

cheered  by  the  singing  and  playing  of  hymns.    Some  who  were  tired  went 

to  their  rest,  and  the  others,  the  Provost,  Mr.  M.  Gerock,  Pastor  Wev- 

gand,  Mr.  Kurtz,  Sr.,  and   Muhlenberg,  conferred  on  times  past   and 

,  until  3  o'clock  in  the  morning. 

On  Tuesday,  Oct.  21,  the  ministers  and  friends  present  after  break- 
fast, ended  with  prayer,  sanir,  in  closing,  the  last  stanza  of  the  hymn: 
"Nunfreut  euch  lieben  Christen  gmein"  etc.,  "  Has  ick  gethan  huh.  und 
gelehrt,  tin*  x<>lt  dn  limn  und  lehren"  etc.,  said  farewell,  and  started  on 
their  journeys  to  their  respective  homes. 

Psalm  133. 


FOURTEENTH  CONVENTION. 

1761. 


TRINITY  SUNDAY, 

(May  17-18,  Trinity  Church,  Lancaster.) 


[Haklesche  Nachrichtest,  o.  e.  865  ;  n.  e.  II.  374.     Muhlenberg  Diary,  MS., 

May,  1761.] 

Ill  the  month  of  May,  1761,  our  annual  preachers'  Convention  of  the 
United  Swedish  and  German  Ministerium  was  held  in  Lancaster,  upon 
occasion  of  the  laying  of  the  corner-stone  of  a  new  Lutheran  church  at 
that  place. 

(Cf.  also  H.  N.  o.  e.  948  ;  n.  e.  II.  427 :  Ordination  in  this  meeting  of  Kurtz, 
Jr.;  Mann,  Life  and  Times  of  Muhlenberg,  385:  attack  of  Rauss  on  Muhlenberg  v. 
Muhlenberg's  Defence,  MS.:  ''Mr.  Rauss  at  the  meeting  in  Lancaster,  May  19  A.c, 
expressly  promised  before  the  members  of  the  Rev.  Ministerium  of  Swedish  and 
German  nationality,  that  he  would  prove  in  writing  to  the  chosen  arbitrators  that 
Muhlenberg  is  a.  heterodox  in  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  doctrine,  and  b.  unchris- 
tian in  life  and  conversation.  The  Swedish  pastors,  Dr.  Wrangel  and  Borell,  were 
appointed  arbitrators."  Muhlenberg's  defence,  or  rather  his  review  of  Rauss'  brief 
of  charges,  is  in  Archives  of  the  Ministerium,  both  in  his  own  handwriting,  and  in 
documents  transcribed  from  those  at  Halle.  It  would  fill,  if  here  printed,  about 
seventy-five  pp.  of  this  volume.  Reference  to  this  meeting  is  found  also  in  Lan- 
caster Memorial  Volume,  pp.  19,  20.) 
58 


FIFTEENTH  CONVENTION. 

1762. 


THIRD  SUNDAY  AFTER  TRINITY. 

(June  27-29,  Philadelphia.) 


[Rev.  Muhlenberg's  Diary,  1762.     H.  N.  916  ff.  and  MS.] 

Friday,  June  25,  .  .  .  Toward  evening  [after  4  o'clock],  I  rode  out 
to  Wicaco  with  Messrs.  Gerock  and  Sckwertfeger  to  the  Swedish  Pro- 
vost. We  asked  Mr.  Schwertfeger  whether  he  was  willing  to  undergo 
an  examination,  as  we  could  not  otherwise  receive  him  into  ministerial 
fellowship.  He  answered  :  "  Yes."  Thereupon  Provost  Wrangel  and 
Pastor  Gerock  were  requested  to  examine  him  on  the  morrow,  and  to 
give  their  opinion  of  it  in  the  public  meeting.  In  the  evening  Pastor 
Weygand  held  a  service,  and  edified  those  present,  his  text  being  II 
Cor.  4  :  6,  7.  The  appointed  Conference  of  preachers  caused  joy  among 
the  members  of  the  congregation,  who  said :  Such  a  thing  had  not 
happened  for  years  ["since  Mr.  Handschuh  stood  alone  and  held  aloof 
from  the  Ministerium."  .  .  .  .] 

Saturday,  about  eleven  o'clock,  I  had  a  private  conference  with  Mr. 
Weygand  concerning  New  York  congregational  affairs. 

In  the  afternoon,  about  four  o'clock,  I  had  asked  for  a  conference  in 
the  school-house,  on  account  of  the  matters  that  were  to  come  up  in  the 
Synod,  at  which  conference  there  were  present:  Dr.  Wrangel,  Rev. 
Gerock,  Rev.  Weygand,  Rev.  Bryzelius,  Rev.  Handschuh,  and  I.  It 
was  late  when  we  separated. 

Sunday,  June  27,  about  nine  o'clock,  the  following  preachers  grad- 
ually assembled:  1.  The  Swedish  Provost  WrangeL  2.  Mr.  Borell, 
Swedish  preacher  from  Wilmington.  3.  Mr.  Wicksel, Swedish  minister 
from  Racoon,  in  Jersey.  4.  Rev.  Gerock  from  Lancaster.  5.  Rev. 
Hausihl  from  Reading.  6.  Rev.  Bryzelius  from  Raritan.  7.  Rev. 
Weygand  from  New  York.  8.  Rev.  Schwertfeger  from  Conestoga.  9. 
Pastor  Handschuh,  and  10,  I  (Muhlenberg).  As  delegates  there  were 
present  Esquire  Coultas,  a  real  patriot  of  our  church  from  Kingcess; 

59 


60  DOCUMENTAKY  HISTORY. 

Esquire  Kulin  from  Lancaster;  Mr.  Rade  from  Lebanon;  two  from 
Tulpehocken ;  the  others,  from  Reading  (Samuel  Weiser),  New  Han- 
over (one,  Mr.  Jurger),  New  York  (two,  Messrs.  Grim  and  Ebert), 
and  Jersey  (two,  Jacob  Oeff  and  John  Appleman),'  and  Mr.  Stiegel 
from  the  Elizabeth  Iron  Furnace.  The  deacons  of  the  Philadelphia 
congregation  preceded,  and  all  the  rest  followed  to  the  church  in  pro- 
cession [Muhlenberg  with  the  Provost,  Gerock  with  Borell,  Hausihl 
with  Wicksel,  Handschuh  with  Weygand,  and  then  the  elders  and  dele- 
gates with  Captain  Coultas.] 

In  the  church,  winch  was  much  too  small,  1.  Dr.  Wrangel  opened 
the  services  with  reading  the  146th  Psalm.  2.  Muhlenberg  read  the 
confession  and  collects,  etc.2  3.  Mr.  Handschuh  baptized  children. 
4.  As  the  chief  hymn  we  sang,  "  Zeuch  mich,  zeuch  mich  mit  den 
Armen,"  etc.  5.  Rev.  Gerock  preached  on  the  Gospel  for  the  Third  Sun- 
day after  Trinity,  and  set  forth  "The  love  of  Jesus  Justifying  Itself  in 
receiving  Publicans  and  Sinners,'  in  a  very  edifying  manner.  6.  Rev. 
Borell  closed  with  prayer  and  the  benediction.  After  this  the  preachers 
went  to  Mr.  Handschuh's  parsonage,  where  a  light  meal  had  been  pre- 
pared at  the  congregation's  expense. 

About  three  o'clock  in  the  afternoon  the  services  in  the  church 
again  began.  Mr.  Bryzelius  rode  to  Kingcess  with  Esq.  Coultas,  to 
preach  there  in  Swedish.  The  Swedish  Provost  preached  the  first 
German  sermon  in  our  St.  Michael's  Church  in  the  presence  of  a  very 
large  audience,  on  John  20  :  19-21.  On  "The  First  Festive  Appearance 
of  the  Risen  Saviour  to  Ten  of  His  Disciples."  It  was  an  excellent,  exe- 
getically  instructive  and  edifying  discourse,  such  as  I  had  not  yet  heard 
in  this  part  of  the  world.  After  the  sermon  we  sang,  "  Mein  Heiland 
nimmt  die  Sunder  an,"  etc.,  and  Pastor  Wicksel  closed  with  the  bene- 
diction. 

Afterwards  the  preachers  went  to  the  school  house  and  had  edifying 
conversations  with  one  another.  In  the  evening,  about  seven  o'clock, 
we  went  to  church  for  service.  Mr.  Weigand  delivered  a  discourse 
on  Rom.  7:  12,  "Of  the  Nature  and  Use  of  the  Law,"  etc.  (It 
seemed  to  some  that  Mr.  Weygand  intended  to  give  a  hint,  as 
though  in  the  two  preceding  sermons  the  friend  of  sinners  and  publi- 
cans, Jesus,  had  been  pictured  too  evangelically,  etc.)  After  this  hour 
we  again  went  to  the  school  house,  where  Pastor  Kurtz  and  his  younger 
brother,  as  also  Pastor  Schaum,  joined  us.  At  my  request,  Pastor  Kurtz 
had  preached   impressively  at  Barren  Hill    in   the  morning,  and  at 

1  Names  in  parenthesis  supplied  from  MS. 

2  MS.  "  And  rend  the  Epistle." 


FIFTEENTH  CONVENTION,  17G2.  61 

Germantown   in   the    Reformed   Church   in    the  afternoon,  and    Mr. 
Kurtz,  Jr.,  had  held  services  '  at  Upper  Dublin. 

Monday,  June  28,  early,  delegates  from  Indianfield  arrived,  bringing 
a  preacher  with  them,  whom  they  wished  to  have  examined  by  the 
Ministerium.  Further  delegates  from  Germantown,  Barren  Hill  and 
Upper  Dublin  presented  themselves. 

II. 

[Repobt  of   ttte   Preaciters'  Conference   in  June,  1762,  Prepared   by 

Pastor  Handschuh.     H.  N.  954.     (Sup.  II.  Doc.  II.  1245), 

MS.  Muhlenberg's  Diary  in  Archives.] 

Reverend  Fathers  in  Chrld  : 

We  shall  hereby  most  obediently  render  to  you  a  short  account  of 
the  Church  Conference  called  together  by  Rev.  Muhlenberg  and  held  in 
St.  Michael's  Church,  Philadelphia,  at  the  end  of  June,  1762.  The 
preachers  who  arrived  one  after  another  and  were  present  at  it  were  the 
following:  1.  Provost  Dr.  Wrangel ;  2.  Mr.  Borell;  3.  Mr.  Bryzelius ; 
and  4.  Mr.  Wicksel,  who  are  the  four  Swedish  colleagues ;  further,  5. 
Mr.  Muhlenberg ;  6.  I.  Handschuh  ;  7.  Mr.  Kurtz,  Sr. ;  8.  Mr.  M.  Ge- 
rock,  9.  Mr.  Schaum  ;  10.  Mr.  Weygand  ;  11.  Mr.  Hausihl;  12.  Mr.  Kurtz, 
Jr.;  13.  Mr.  Schwertfeger ;  and  14.  Mr.  Roth.  There  were  two,  three 
and  four  delegated  elders  and  deacons  from  each  of  the  outside  congre- 
gations, and  from  some  even  more ;  no  small  number  altogether.  On 
the  Third  Sunday  after  Trinity  all  the  preachers,  together  with  all  the 
delegated  elders  and  deacons,  assembled  in  the  large  room  of  our  school- 
house,  a  good  half  hour  before  the  last  forenoon  bell-ringing,  and  from 
there  went  to  the  church  by  twos.  Pastor  Muhlenberg  read  the  Public 
Confession  and  what  belongs  to  it,  Pastor  Handschuh  baptized  the  chil- 
dren, Mr.  M.  Gerock  preached  and  one  of  the  Swedish  preachers  offered 
the  prayer  and  pronounced  the  benediction  standing  before  the  altar. 
After  service  was  ended  the  preachers  went  by  twos  to  the  parsonage 
[where  they  and  their  wives  had  dinner,  and  received  every  attention 
possible  from  Handschuh  and  various  elders  of  this  place.]  From  the 
parsonage  the  preachers  again  went  to  the  church  by  twos  as  the  bells 
were  ringing  for  afternoon  service.  After  the  hymn  the  preacher  read 
the  133d  Psalm,  Provost  Wrangel  preached,  and  the  third  Swedish 
preacher  offered  the  prayer  and  pronounced  1  he  benediction  from  before 
the  altar.  In  the  evening,  about  seven  o'clock,  service  was  held,  at 
which  Mr  Weygand  preached.  After  its  conclusion  every  preacher 
retired  to  his  lodging-place. 

1  MS.,  "and  communion." 


62  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

On  the  Monday  following,  June  28,  at  nine  o'clock,  the  public  wor- 
ship in  the  church  again  began,  to  which  the  preachers,  elders  and  dea- 
cons of  the  various  United  Congregations  had  gone  by  twos  as  on  the 
preceding  Sunday.  One  of  the  preachers  stood  before  the  altar  and 
read  a  Bible  passage,  Mr.  Kurtz,  Sr.,  preached  the  Synodical  sermon 
and  one  of  the  Swedish  brethren  standing  before  the  altar  offered  the 
prayer  and  pronounced  the  benediction.  After  the  close  of  the  service 
the  preachers,  and  the  elders,  deacons  and  other  delegates  of  the  vari- 
ous United  Congregations  in  Pennsylvania,  New  Jersey  and  New  York 
who  were  present  remained  in  the  church,  and  the  public  Conference, 
over  which  Pastor  Muhlenberg  presided,  was  opened  by  him  with  a 
prayer.  [The  President  appointed  Pastor  Handschuh  to  act  as  Secre- 
tary, and  opened  the  Synod  with  the  Litany,  after  which  the  second 
verse  of  "Komm  Heiliger  Geist,  Herre  Gott,"  was  sung.  H.  N.  o.  e.  918.] 

Then  the  following  matters  were  taken  up,  one  after  the  other  : 

I.  The  testimonial  of  Mr.  John  William  Samuel  Schwertfeger  from 
his  native  country  was  openly  read,  also  the  examination  certificate  of 
his  eligibility  for  the  office  of  preacher,  which  Dr.  Wrangel  and  Mr. 
M.  Gerock  had  given  him  in  writing.  Thereupon  his  reception  into 
our  fellowship  was  approved  by  all  the  preachers  present.  Rev.  Muhl- 
enberg then  read  to  him  very  distinctly  the  most  important  Scripture 
passages 2  in  regard  to  the  ministry,  and  then  he  received  from  all  and 
each  of  the  preachers  a  hearty  wish  of  blessing.  Finally  Mr.  Schwert- 
feger expressed  his  most  humble  thanks  to  the  whole  Ministerium  for 
his  reception.  At  the  close  of  this  first  transaction  :  "  Was  ich  gethan 
hab  und  gelehrt,"  etc.,  was  sung. 

II.  A  necessary  inquiry  was  made  about  the  schools  in  each  of  the 
United  Congregations,  upon  which  the  following  reports  were  made : 
1.  New  Providence  has  several  small  schools,  but  the  main  school  at 
the  church  is  vacant.  2.  New  Hanover  still  has  one  school,  and  has 
been  somewhat  assisted  by  the  society  in  London,  but  this  assistance 
has  lately  been  withdrawn  again.  3.  The  condition  of  our  schools  at 
Philadelphia  is  sufficiently  well  known,  and  the  public  examination  on 
the  morrow  shall  testify  of  it.  4.  In  the  Swedish  congregations  the 
Swedish  schools  have,  alas !  been  neglected  for  several  generations.  But 
Dr.  Wrangel  has  started  an  English  school  in  one  of  his  congregations 
in  which  the  Lutheran  catechism  is  taught  in  an  English  translation. 

5.  In  the  Raritan  congregation  the  German  school  is  as  yet  wanting. 

6.  In  New  York  the  German  school  is  badly  managed  by  reason  of 
a  worthless  schoolmaster.    7.  In  Mr.  Schaum's  congregations,  at  Oley,  a 

1  On  I  Thess.  5  :  12. 

aM.S.  from  Timothy  Titus,  etc. 


FIFTEENTH  CONVENTION,  1762.  63 

worthless  schoolmaster  had  to  be  discharged,  hence  the  school  has  fallen 
into  decay  at  preseut.  8.  In  Vincent  Township  there  is  a  good  school : 
they  have  an  excellent  schoolmaster  and  nearly  sixty  scholars.  9.  In 
Beading  there  is  a  well-managed  school  of  eighty  children  or  more.  10. 
Richmond  also  has  a  fair  school.  11.  In  Rev.  Kurtz,  Sr.'s,  congrega- 
tions there  are  several  schools ;  in  Tulpehocken  one  of  forty,  and  in 
Heidelberg  one  of  thirty  children.  12.  In  Lebanon  there  are  no 
schools  yet  on  account  of  the  poverty  of  the  people.  13.  In  Easton 
there  is  no  permanent  school  because  the  people  are  too  scattered.  14. 
At  the  Nordkiel  Mr.  Kurtz,  Jr.,  keeps  school  himself  in  winter,  and  at 
first  had  about  thirty  children,  but  afterward  the  number  decreased  on 
account  of  the  high  water.  15.  In  Lancaster  the  German  school  has 
from  fifty  to  sixty  children  in  summer,  but  from  eighty  to  ninety  in 
winter.  It  is  supported  by  the  congregation  itself,  without  outside 
assistance.  Its  schoolmaster,  Jacob  Loser,  is  a  ready  and  gifted  man, 
who  would  be  well  capable  of  still  more  important  service.  Yet  it  is 
to  be  regretted  that  the  lack  of  room  and  of  a  proper  code  of  rules 
interferes  with  its  efficiency. 

III.  The  increase  of  the  congregations  since  the  synod  of  the  pre- 
ceding year,  through  Holy  Baptism  :  1  In  Rev.  Muhlenberg's  congre- 
gations at  Providence  and  New  Hanover,  one  hundred  and  twenty 
children  and  seven  or  eight  grown  persons.  2.  In  Philadelphia,  one 
hundred  and  thirty  or  forty,  among  whom  were  several  grown  people. 
3.  In  Dr.  Wrangel's  congregations,  one  hundred  and  fifty  children, 
and  of  adult-s  four  negroes  and  six  white  persons,  one  of  whom  had 
been  a  Quaker ;  beside  these,  there  is  one  more  under  instruction.  In 
Malatte  an  Engli>hman  was  instructed  and  baptized.  4.  In  Lancaster, 
two  hundred  and  fifty.  In  Biber  Creek,  some  twenty  to  thirty  children 
and  some  six  adults.  5.  In  Wilmington  and  the  congregation  belong- 
ing to  it,  ninety  children  and  six  or  seven  adults.  6.  In  Mr.  Bryzelius' 
congregations,  in  the  Province  of  New  Jersey,  some  eight  adults  were 
instructed  and  baptized,  two  others  are  yet  under  instruction  ;  and  of 
baptized  children  there  are  at  least  over  a  hundred.  7.  In  New  York, 
Mr.  Weygand  lias  one  child  of  seven  years  under  instruction,  the 
number  of  those  baptized  he  will  send  in  later,  as  he  does  not  know  it 
exactly,  8.  In  Reading  and  the  congregations  belonging  to  that  charge, 
two  hundred  and  fifty  children ;  besides  these,  one  adult  was  baptized 
on  last  Whitsunday,  and  another  is  still  under  instruction.  9.  Mr. 
Kurtz,  Jr.,  has  baptized  one  person  whose  parents  are  Dunkers. 

IV.  The  number  of  the  confirmed  who  communed  for  the  first  time : 
In  Barren  Hill,  twenty  souls;  in  Cohenzy,  eleven;  in  Philadelphia, 
sixty-five  ;  in  Dr.  Wrangel's  congregations,  eighteen  ;  among  them  one 


64  DOCUMENTARY   HISTORY. 

who  had  been  a  Roman  Catholic ;  in  Racoon,  six  Swedes  and  four 
Germans ;  in  Lancaster,  forty,  from  fourteen  to  twenty  years  of  age ; 
among  them,  also,  one  Roman  Catholic ;  in  Wilmington,  fourteen ;  in 
New  Germantown,  in  Jersey,  fifteen;  in  Mr.  Schaum's  congregations, 
fourteen  ;  among  them  one  married  woman ;  in  Mr.  Hausihl's  congre- 
gations, forty-four ;  among  whom  were  one  married  man  and  seven 
married  women.  As  to  New  York,  Mr.  Weygand  will  send  the 
report  later.  Mr.  Kurtz,  Sr.,  instructed  and  confirmed  twenty-two 
persons  there,  among  whom  was  one  Roman  Catholic ;  in  Tulpehocken, 
thirty-six  souls  ;  in  Heidelberg,  twenty-one ;  on  the  Nord.kiel,  twenty- 
one  are  to  be  confirmed  next  Sunday  ;  in  Mr.  Schwertfeger's  congrega- 
tions, thirty-nine;   among  them  one  married  man. 

V.  As  to  the  reception  of  new  congregations,  there  were  the  following : 
1.  Lebanon,  whose  petition  to  the  United  Preachers  was  read  from  a 
letter  by  Rev.  Kurtz,  Sr.  2.  Greenwich,  in  Berks  county,  whose  letter 
asking  for  a  pastor  from  our  Ministerium,  was  read.  Special  request 
was  made  for  Mr.  Schaum.  3.  In  New  York,  the  separated  Meadow 
congregation  also  applied  to  this  Ministerium,  which  matter  was  after- 
wards decided  in  a  private  conference.  4.  Barren  Hill,  Upper  Dublin, 
Cohenzy,  Saccum,  New  Hanover,  and  New  Providence,  shall  be  further 
provided  for.  5.  The  consideration  of  Germantown  was  postponed  until 
the  private  conference.     Adjourned  with  prayer  and  a  hymn. 

Then  all  present  went,  two  by  two,  from  the  church  to  the  school- 
house,  and  there  dined.  The  young  English  preacher  of  the  High 
Church,  Mr.  Duchee,  and  several  members  of  his  congregation,  were 
present  by  invitation. 

In  the  private  conference  of  the  preachers,  held  in  the  afternoon,  the 
following  matters  came  up  :  1.  In  reference  to  Germantown,  the  many 
points  of  complaint  against  their  pastor,  Mr.  Rapp,  were  read.  The 
delegates  from  that  place  were  listened  to,  one  after  the  other,  and  upon 
their  urgent  request  Ave  promised  to  receive  them  and  those  at  Barren 
Hill  as  far  as  possible,  and  that  Rev.  Kurtz,  Sr.,  should  go  to  German- 
town  as  soon  as  he  could,  and  make  a  trial  of  six  weeks;  his  place  is 
to  be  supplied  by  his  nearest  colleagues  who  were  willing,  especially 
Provost  Wrangel,  Mr.  Tvl.  Gerock,  Mr.  Kurtz,  Jr.,  Mr.  Schaum  and 
Mr.  Schwertfeger.  2.  The  election  of  a  new  President.  The  majority 
of  votes  were  for  Rev.  Muhlenberg,  in  which  office  success  and  blessing 
were  then  Avished  him  by  all  of  the  preachers. 

[The  MS.  of  Muhlenberg  differs  here,  introducing  the  deliberations  concerning 
New  York,  not  reported  in  H.  N.,  until  the  final  decision  next  day.  It  is  as 
follows: 


FIFTEENTH  CONVENTION,   1762.  65 

[The  matter  of  the  New  York  congregations  was  taken  up  and  the 
delegates  of  hoth  congregations  given  an  audience.  We  scarcely  know 
how  to  decide,  Bince  we  need  laborers,  and  at  this  time  it  seems  impos- 
sible to  unite  the  two  congregations  into  one.  The  matter  was  post- 
poned for  more  mature  deliberation  until,  D.  V.,  to-morrow  morning. 
There  being  a  little  time  left,  the  Ministerium  proceeded  to  the  election 
of  a  President.  I  begged  to  be  excused  from  the  office,  and  gave  my 
reasons,  but  they  again  elected  me,  and  asked  that  I  remain  in  office 
only  until  the  congregations  were  brought  into  better  order.] 

In  the  evening  about  seven  o'clock,  the  service  began  in  church. 
Provost  Wrangel  preached,  and  one  of  the  Swedish  brethren  offered 
prayer  and  afterwards  pronounced  the  benediction  before  the  altar. 
After  the  close  of  the  evening  service  every  one  went  home. 

Tuesday,  June  29,  all  the  preachers  came  together  in  one  of  the 
upper  school  rooms,  at  about  nine  o'clock  in  the  forenoon,  for  a  further 
conference,  at  which  the  following  matters  were  taken  up :  1.  Mr. 
Roth,  who  had  formerly  been  a  Roman  Catholic  student  at  Siegen,  was 
taken  aside  into  another  school-room,  and  carefully  examined  as  to  his 
doctrine  by  Dr.  Wrangel,  Mr.  M.  Gerock  and  Rev.  Handschuh, 
Mr.  Weygand  attending,  as  his  strength  permitted.  He  was  earnestly 
exhorted  and  requested  to  wait  for  his  reception  into  our  fellowship 
until  further  information,  and  then  in  fervent  prayer  commended  to 
the  Lord,  which  was  not  done  without  tears  and  heart-felt  emotion  on 
his  part.  2.  The  circumstances  of  the  New  York  congregations  were 
again  earnestly  taken  up.  Rev.  Kurtz's  diary  of  his  and  Provost 
Wrangel's  journey  to  New  X°rk  and  their  doings  there,  his  proposition 
for  union  presented  to  the  above  congregations,  and  the  answer  to  it 
from  Rev.  Weygand  and  his  elders  and  deacons  were  read  ;  whereupon 
it  was  finally  decided,  after  much  and  somewhat  laborious  consideration, 
that  another  attempt  at  the  union  of  these  two  separated  congregations 
must  be  made,  and  Rev.  Mr.  Gerock  was  unanimously  chosen  to 
accompany  the  delegates  from  New  York  home  and  undertake  such 
attempt.  Rev.  Kurtz,  Sr.,  and  Mr.  Schwertfeger  were  willing  to 
supply  his  place  in  Lancaster,  in  the  meantime,  and,  perhaps,  also  Mr. 
Muhlenberg  for  one  Sunday.  Thereupon  the  delegated  elders  and 
deacons  from  both  the  New  York  congregations  were  earnestly  exhorted. 
After  the  close  of  this  private  conference,  several  preachers  and  the 
New  York  elders  remained  and  dined  with  Mr.  Handschuh ;  others 
went  with  Rev.  Muhlenberg  to  his  house,  and  others  to  their  several 
lodging  places. 

In  the  afternoon,  at  about  two  o'clock,  all  the  preachers  came  together 
5 


66  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

in  the  church  for  the  public  school  examination,  to  which  not  only 
all  the  preachers,  resident  and  non-resident  elders  and  deacons  who 
were  present,  but  also  the  parents  of  the  children,  had  been  publicly 
invited  the  day  before.  There  was  an  unusually  large  number  of  the 
school  children,  who  had  been  led  in,  each  class  two  by  two,  and  had 
been  seated  in  suitable  order  by  their  schoolmaster  Homer.  The  exami- 
nation was  opened  with  singing  and  prayer  by  the  school  children.  The 
higher  classes  were  examined  by  the  preachers,  especially  by  the  non- 
resident Germans ;  but  the  schoolmaster  examined  the  lower  classes, 
the  examination  being  interspersed  with  the  singing  of  beautiful  hymns. 
When  this  was  finished,  the  schoolmaster  catechized  all  the  school 
children  in  the  order  of  their  classes ;  in  which  the  children  were  so 
hearty  and  ready,  also  in  repeating  the  best  proof-texts,  that  all  the 
non-resident  preachers,  elders  and  deacons  present  were  not  a  little 
astonished,  and  listened  with  the  greatest  satisfaction.  Finally  Mr. 
Kurtz,  Jr.,  came  before  the  altar,  made  an  edifying  address  to  the 
children,  and  closed  with  prayer ;  and  at  last  the  exercises  ended  with 
singing  and  the  distribution  of  pretzels. 

In  the  evening,  about  seven  o'clock,  a  public  service  was  again  held 
in  the  church.  Mr.  Hausihl  preached  [on  Rev.  3  :  1-2,  for  almost  two 
hours],  and  another  offered  prayer  and  pronounced  the  benediction  from 
before  the  altar.  Since  the  public  services  in  day  time,  as  well  as  in 
the  evening,  were  attended  by  an  unusually  large  number  of  listeners, 
and  attentively  followed  to  their  end,  the  audience  was  invited  to 
another  service  on  the  following  evening  in  the  Swedish  Church  at 
Wicaco. 

On  Wednesday  morning  some  of  the  preachers  again  prepared  for 
the  journey  home ;  the  resident  preachers  and  those  who  yet  remained, 
at  the  invitation  of  Provost  Wrangel  dined,  together  with  their  wives, 
at  his  home.  [After  dinner  some  rested  awhile,  others  went  together 
into  his  garden,  others  shut  themselves  in  a  room  to  discuss  in  quiet, 
all  manner  of  congregational  and  ministerial  matters  especially  concern- 
ing Yorktown.]  Toward  evening  quite  a  number  of  people  came  to 
the  Swedish  church,  although  many  had  a  long  way  to  come  from  the 
city.  For  the  sake  of  those  who  understood  no  German,  the  Swedish 
preacher  Bryzelius  preached  in  English  [on  John  17:3.  Sermon 
much  confused,  as  he  extemporized],  and  Rev.  Muhlenberg  addressed  a 
German  exhortation  [on  Ps.  73 :  25],  to  those  who  did  not  understand 
the  English  [and  thanked  the  Swedish  ministers  for  their  faithful  and 
edifying  attendance,  and  wished  his  colleagues  a  happy  journey  home]. 
The  English  sang  in  English,  and  the  Germans  in  German,  each  in 
their  order.     Several  preachers   remained  with  Provost  Wrangel  for 


FIFTEENTH  CONVENTION,  1762.  67 

supper ;  others  who  had  business  to  transact,  returned  the  long  distance 
to  their  homes  with  their  wives.  Thus  the  Conference  for  this  time  was 
closed,  with  the  gracious  aid  of  God,  and  presumably  not  entirely  with- 
out blessing  and  encouragement.     The  Lord  be  praised  ! 

Henry  Melcfiior  Muhlenberg. 
John  Frederick  Handschuh. 

Philadelphia,  April  26,  1763. 


SIXTEENTH   CONVENTION, 

1763. 


TWENTIETH  SUNDAY  AFTER  TRINITY, 

(October  16-19,  Philadelphia.) 

[Pastor  Muhlenberg's  Diary,  1763.    H.  1ST.  1122  ff.;  MS.;  Supplemented  by 
Halle  Doc.  II.  1575  ff.] 

October  15.  The  delegates  and  preachers  gradually  arrived,  various 
members  of  the  congregation  handed  in  their  names  for  communion  to- 
morrow, and  besides  much  other  coming  and  going,  I  had  also  to  visit 
some  sick  people.  About  two  o'clock  in  the  afternoon,  I  went  to  the 
Conference  in  the  parsonage  [where  there  were  present  Dr.  Wrangel, 
Messrs.  Hornell,  Gerock,  Hausihl,  Bager,  Handschuh  and  IJ.  Here  I 
read  them  the  minutes  of  the  last  meeting,  then  I  communicated  to 
them  the  correspondence  received  respecting  the  congregations  [among 
which  also  was  the  Latin  letter,  which  especially  offended  the  Provost 
with  its  blind  prejudices).  Arrangements  for  the  sermons  and  evening 
services  were  made.  [We  conferred  concerning  the  invitation  of  old 
Rev.  Stover  and  Mr.  Roth.]  We  also  discussed  whether  we  should  not 
invite  Mr.  Whitefield  and  the  two  friendly  disposed  preachers  of  the 
Episcopal  Church  for  Monday  and  Tuesday,  especially  to  the  examina- 
tion of  the  children.  Dr.  Wrangel  mentioned,  among  other  reasons, 
that  Mr.  Whitefield  had  assisted  our  poor  distressed  brethren  in  Prussia 
by  means  of  collections.  In  the  evening,  Dr.  Wrangel  took  me  with 
him  to  Mr.  Whitefield,  and  in  the  name  of  the  Ministerium  we  invited 
him,  and  at  the  same  time  the  Rector  of  the  High  Church  [Rev.  Peters] 
who  was  present.  He  promised,  if  he  were  well,  to  attend  next  Tues- 
day. In  the  evening  from  8  to  11,  Pastor  Gerock  was  with  me  alone, 
and  had  much  to  confer  about,  but  I  could  endure  the  strain  no  longer, 
being  wearied  and  exhausted. 

October  16.  I  was  visited  by  Deacon  Roth,  and  by  the  delegates  from 
Tulpehocken,  who  anxiously  requested  that  we  should  soon  send 
Mr.  Kurtz  home  again  from  Germantown,  as  the  congregation  was  in 
danger  of  being  scattered.  I  had  also  a  visitor  from  Indianfield. 
After  nine  o'clock  in  the  forenoon,  I  went  to  the  school-house,  where  I 
68 


SIXTEENTH  CONVENTION,  1763.  69 

found  the  preachers,  our  church  council  and  the  delegates  assembled. 
Toward  ten  o'clock  we  went  in  procession  to  the  church  [a.  the  six  dea- 
cons of  the  Philadelphia  congregation  preceding,  b.  then  the  Provost, 
Gerock  and  I,  c.  Messrs.  Heggeblad  and  Hornell,  d.  Messrs.  Hausihl 
and  Bager,  c  Messrs.  Handschuh,  Stover,  Kurtz,  Jr  and  Roth,/,  the 
delegates,  and  last  our  trustees  and  elders]. 

Public  worship  was  held  in  the  following  order:  It  was  opened  with 
the  reading  of  the  117th  Psalm  by  Wrangel,  and  then  "  Komm  Eelliger 
Geist,  Herre  Gott,"  etc.,  was  sung  with  instrumental  music.  Then  the 
Confession,  Collect  and  Epistle  were  read  by  Muhlenberg,  and  the  hymn, 
"  Sey  Lob  und  Ehr  dem  hochsten  Gut,"  etc.,  was  sung.  Hereupon  one 
of  the  preachers,  Rev.  Bager,  read  the  Apostles'  Creed.  A  selection  of 
Church  music  was  rendered,  and  Dr.  Wrangel  preached  an  excellent 
and  powerful  sermon  on  II  Cor.  5 :  14,  "  For  the  love  of  Christ  con- 
straineth  us,"  etc.  The  theme  was  :  "  How  far  the  service  of  converted 
and  of  unconverted  preachers  could  be  effective  and  pleasing  to  Christ." 
The  distinction  between  the  efficacy  and  the  administration  of  the  Gospel 
was  very  well  shown,  but  only  the  first  part  could  be  treated,  the  time 
being  too  short  The  second  part  of  the  fruits  of  converted  laborers 
was  postponed  to  some  other  opportunity.  After  the  sermon  [the  first 
two  stanzas  of]  "  Wachet  auf,  rxift  una  die  Stimme"  etc.,  were  sung  [chor- 
weis],  and  then  the  Coufession  and  the  Absolution  were  read  [by  Rev. 
Handschuh.]  and  the  bread  and  wine  consecrated.  [Dr.  Wrangel  and 
I  administered  the  communion.]  Six  ministers  and  about  seventy 
members  of  the  congregation  received  the  Holy  Communion.  After 
the  Benediction  had  been  pronounced  [by  Rev.  Hornell,]  all  the 
preachers  went  to  the  school- house  after  one  o'clock  and  dined.  Pastor 
Handschuh  had  a  Reformed  woman  to  bury,  who  had  died  in  child- 
birth, and  to  preach  the  funeral  sermon  in  the  old  Reformed  Church. 
About  half-past  two  in  the  afternoon,  we  [all  except  Dr.  Wrangel  who 
stood  as  sponsor  for  Rev.  Duchee's  son]  again  went  to  the  church. 
After  the  hymn,  " Mache  dick,  viein  Geist,  bereit"  etc.,  had  been  sung, 
and  Mr.  Hausihl  had  baptized  four  children,  Mr.  Stover  preached  on 
the  Epistle  lesson  for  the  Twentieth  Sunday  after  Trinity,  Eph.  5: 15- 
21 :  "Of  the  Prudent  Walk  and  Conversation  of  the  Christian."  1.  In 
regard  to  ministers,  2.  To  hearers.  Finally,  "Ach  bleib  mit  deiner 
Gnade  bey  una,  Herr  Jesu  Christ"  etc.,  was  sung.  Afterwards,  several 
of  the  preachers  and  delegates  again  went  to  the  school-house,  where 
the  elder  Mr.  Kurtz  who  had  labored  in  his  congregation  in  the  fore- 
noon, also  joined  them.  In  the  evening  at  about  seven  o'clock,  we  again 
went  to  church,  where  a  large  crowd  had  gathered.  Rev.  Bnger,  of 
the  High  German  congregation  in  New  York,  a  former  pupil  of  Drs- 


70  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Baumgarten,  Knapp  and  Clausnitz,  preached  a  very  refreshing,  instruc- 
tive and  edifying  sermon  on  Heb.  11 :  24-26  [Of  a  Wise  and  Intelligent 
Choice.     1.  What  to  reject;  2  What  to  choose  and  take.] 

Monday,  Oct.  17.  The  younger  Mr.  Kurtz  was  called  to  Germantown 
to  attend  a  funeral  for  his  brother.  Towards  ten  o'clock  the  preachers 
and  delegates  assembled  in  the  school-house  and  went  in  procession  to 
the  church.  The  synodical  sermon  was  preached  [by  Rev.  Hausihl]  on 
Rev.  3  :  4.  ["  Thou  hast  a  few  names  even  in  Sardis,  which  have  not 
defiled  their  garments."]  He  preached  especially  on  the  following 
words  :  "  And  they  shall  walk  with  me  in  white,  for  they  are  worthy." 
After  the  sermon  the  business  sessions  began  in  the  following  order : 

I.  The  President  requested  Mr.   Kurtz,  Sr.,  to  record  the  minutes. 

II.  The  delegates  were  called  up  and  enrolled :  1.  From  the  Philadelphia 
congregation,  the  trustees,  elders  and  deacons  present.  2.  From  Ger- 
mantown, John  Groothaus,  John  Nebal,  Adolf  Gillman  and  John 
Engel.  3.  From  White  Marsh  or  Barren  Hill,  Christoph.  Robin,  Valen- 
tine Muller,  Matth.  Sommer.  4.  From  Lancaster,  Esquire  Kuhn  and 
Caspar  Singer.  5.  From  Yorktown,  across  the  Susquehanna,  Jacob 
Billmeyer.  6.  From  Frederickstown,  in  Maryland,  no  one  was  present 
on  account  of  the  lateness  of  the  season,  but  instead  there  was  a  written 
report.  7.  From  Providence,  no  one  had  come,  partly  because  the 
elders  are  offended  since  they  had  expected  me  to  return.  8.  From 
New  Hanover,  Mr.  Michael  Walter.  9.  From  Reading,  on  the  Schuyl- 
kill, Jacob  Rabolt.  10.  From  Tulpehocken,  Andreas  Kreuzer  and  Jacob 
Fischer.  11.  From  New  Germantown,  Bedminster,  etc  ,  in  Jersey,  none 
were  present,  because  the  invitation  had  not  been  correctly  delivered. 
12.  From  New  York,  a  letter  of  excuse  [by  Rev.  Weygand]  from  the 
Low  German  Congregation,  but  from  the  High  German  a  delegate, 
Peter  Grim.  13.  The  Low  and  High  German  Congregations  in  Hack- 
ensack,  Remmersbach,  Wahlkiel,  etc.,  had  sufficiently  excused  them- 
selves, having  paid  us  a  visit  several  weeks  before  and  reported  the 
condition  of  the  church.  14.  From  Rhinebeck,  Camp,  Staatsburg, 
Claverack  in  the  Province  of  New  York,  two  hundred  miles  from  here, 
an  adequate  excuse  was  received.  They  stand  in  friendly  relations 
towards  us.  15  From  Earltown,  Conestoga  and  Muddy  Creek,  in 
Pennsylvania,  Conrad  Schreuber  and  John  Schultz.  16.  From  Easton, 
on  the  Delaware,  Greenwich,  etc.,  two  delegates.  17.  From  Macunschy, 
Heidelberg,  Jordan,  etc.,  nobody  came  on  account  of  the  danger  from 
Indians  [for  a  sufficient  excuse,  because  a  short  time  before  the  Indians 
had  killed  several  of  our  members].  18.  From  Indianfield,  Saccum, 
and  Upper  Dublin  Frederick  Wambold,  Melchior  Knceple,  Valentin 
Pough  and  Jacob  Timanus.     19.  From  Upper  Milford,  Allentown,  etc, 


SIXTEENTH  CONVENTION,  17G3.  71 

a  letter  of  excuse,  on  account  of  fear  of  attacks  by  the  Indians.  20. 
From  Cohenzy,  in  Jersey,  no  one,  because  I  had  been  there  and  noted 
the  circumstances.  21.  From  Conewaga,  Manchester  and  Paradise  in 
Pennsylvania  a  written  application  and  delegate,  Nicolaus  Biedinger. 
22.  Prom  Oley,  Whitendahl,  etc.,  an  excuse  on  account  of  fear  of  the 
Indians,  and  2.'>,  from  Winchester,  in  Virginia,  written  communications 
[because  they  also  are  in  danger  of  Indian  troubles]. 

III.  Letters  were  read,  one  concerning  Pastor  Roth,  a  testimonial 
regarding  his  uprightness  in  life,  and  his  activity  in  his  duties.  Another 
from  the  inhabitants  of  Allenstown  in  Hampton  Co.,  who  desired  the 
above-mentioned  Mr.  Roth  as  their  preacher,  but  siuce  that  time  have 
mostly  been  put  to  flight  and  scattered  by  the  Indians.  Further,  a 
written  excuse  from  Mr.  Schertlin,  on  account  of  his  age  and  danger 
from  the  Indians,  with  the  request  that  we  remember  him  in  our  prayers. 
Then  a  petition  from  Oley,  recently  called  Stoor,  to  have  preaching 
every  four  weeks. 

IV.  The  President  requested  that  the  brethren  be  pleased  to  report  at 
their  convenience,  how  many  children  and  adults  were  baptized  in  the 
United  Congregations,  how  many  had  received  instruction  and  were 
confirmed,  and  how  many  members  had  died.  This  they  promised  to 
do.  After  the  above  and  other  necessary  letters  had  been  considered, 
we  returned  to  the  school-house. 

The  ministers  and  laborers  present  this  time  were:  Dr.  Wrangel,  the 
Swedish  missionary  Mr.  Heggeblat,  Pastor  Gerock,  of  Lancaster  ;  [Mr. 
Hornell,  of  Yorktown  ;]  Pastor  Kurtz,  Sr.,  of  Germantown  ;  [Mr  Hau- 
sihl,  of  Reading ;]  Pastor  Bager,  of  New  York ;  Pastor  Stover,  of 
Swatara  ;  Deacon  Kurtz,  from  the  Nordkiel ;  Deacon  Roth,  of  Saccum  ; 
Indianfield,  etc.,  Pastor  Handschuh,  and  Muhlenberg.  Absent  ministers : 
Pastor  Borell,  of  Wilmington;  Pastor  Wicksel,  of  Racoon,  in  Jersey. 
Missionaries:  Pastor  Schaum,  of  Whitendahl ;  Pastor  Weygaud,  of 
New  York;  Pastor  Graf,  of  Hackensack,  in  Jersey;  Pastor  Riess,  of 
Rhinebeck  ;  Pastor  Bryzelius,  of  New  Germantown,  in  Jersey  ;  Pastor 
Fried,  of  the  Blue  Mountains. 

In  the  forenoon  we  discussed  whether  Deacon  Roth  could  be  finally 
received  into  the  union,  and  those  present  from  Indianfield  and  Saccum 
were  questioned  as  to  the  sentiment  of  the  congregations,  and  in  the 
name  of  the  congregation  expressed  their  desire  for  it.  The  Minis- 
terium  therefore  considered  it  advisable  to  receive  him,  under  the  follow- 
ing conditions :  1.  That  a  necessary  admonition  be  addressed  to  him 
beforehand.  2.  That  it  be  understood  that  we  retain  the  right  to 
exclude  him  for  sufficient  reasons.  The  President  addressed  the  admo- 
nition to  him,  and  the  other  members  gave  their  assent  and  received  him 


72  DOCUMENTAKY  HISTORY. 

with  the  right  hand,  and  hearty  congratulations.  He  also  prepared  a 
letter  for  the  congregations  in  Indianrield,  Saccum  and  Upper  Milford, 
gave  it  to  the  delegates  to  take  with  them,  and  dismissed  them  to  go  home 
in  peace,  as  they  very  much  desired  on  account  of  Indian  disturbances.  In 
the  meantime,  the  two  ministers  of  the  High  Church,  Messrs.  Peters  and 
Duchee,  arrived,  whom  we  welcomed  gladly  and  talked  on  I  Cor.  3 :  11, 
"  For  other  foundation  can  no  man  lay,"  etc.,  concerning  the  best  way 
of  building  on  that  foundation.  [The  President  asked  the  English 
clergymen  to  give  us  a  sentence  for  our  encouragement.  They  answered  : 
"Other  foundation  can  no  man  lay,"  I  Cor.  3:  11.]  Mr.  Ingliss,  of 
Dover,  was  also  present.  All  the  ministers  and  delegates  present  dined 
in  the  lower  hall  of  the  school-house,  where  the  Church  Council  of  the 
place  very  attentively  waited  upon  them.  During  the  meal  there  was 
pleasant  conversation,  and  several  inspiring  stanzas  of  evangelical 
hymns  were  sung.  The  English  gentlemen  left  with  an  affectionate 
farewell,  and  the  Ministerium  proceeded  to  further  work. 

The  delegates  from  Tulpehocken  sadly  and  earnestly  requested  that 
their  old  preacher,  Mr.  Kurtz,  again  return  from  Germantown,  if  his 
congregations  were  not  to  be  divided  and  scattered,  as  they  had  already 
begun  to  be  since  his  absence.  The  answer  was :  That  we  could  not 
desert  the  Germantown  people  in  their  really  critical  circumstances 
without  great  harm  and  offence.  Pastor  Kurtz  should  rather  make  a 
trip  up  there  immediately  after  Synod,  visit  the  congregations  and 
strengthen  them  with  the  Means  of  Grace,  and  stay  with  them  several 
weeks  ;  in  the  meantime,  Germantown  must  be  provided  for  from  Phila- 
delphia, until,  through  God's  mercy,  help  comes  from  Europe,  when 
Mr.  Kurtz,  God  willing,  may  return  to  them  for  their  good.  Further 
advice  there  was  none  to  give.  They  received  this  with  saddened 
countenances  and  went  away  perplexed. 

Hereupon  the  delegates  from  Reading  and  Easton  came  before  us. 
The  people  from  Easton  insisted  that  the  pastor  from  Reading,  who  had 
accepted  their  call,  must  move  to  Easton  before  Winter.  The  Presi- 
dent asked  whether  the  change  might  not  be  postponed  until  next 
Spring,  as  it  was  dangerous  to  travel  at  that  time  on  account  of  the  In- 
dians, and  the  vacancy  in  Reading  could  not  be  filled  so  quickly.  But 
they  let  it  be  understood  that  Reading  could  more  conveniently  be 
visited  by  the  neighboring  preachers  than  Easton,  and  that  their  circum- 
stances allowed  of  no  delay.  The  decision  was  that  the  change  must 
take  place,  God  willing,  and  that  in  the  meantime  the  Reading  congre- 
gation, as  far  as  possible,  should  be  visited  by  the  other  preachers 
alternately,  until  help  came  from  Europe.  [This  congregation  after- 
wards received  Mr.  Krug  as  its  regular  preacher.] 


SIXTEENTH  CONVENTION,  1763.  73 

The  Ministeriuin  then  went  into  the  lower  room  of  the  school-house 
to  discuss  several  matters  more  publicly  before  all  the  delegates.  [A 
call  to  the  pastorate  from  the  Church  Council  in  Yorktown,  for  Mr. 
Horiull,  was  publicly  read.  The  Ministeriuin  resolved  that  t he  call 
was  satisfactory, and  little  or  no  objection  could  be  made.  It  was  unani- 
mously approved,  signed  and  given  to  Mr.  Hornell.]  The  delegates 
from  Earltown  and  Conestoga  presented  a  letter  to  the  Ministeriuin, 
asking  for  a  regular  preacher.  It  was  unanimously  resolved  that  the 
younger  Mr.  Kurtz  accept  the  call.  The  delegates  thought  he  was  some- 
what too  young  and  weak  for  their  congregations,  and  that  it  was  very 
necessary  that  the  elder  brother  have  nearer  supervision  and  visit  them 
occasionally  from  Tulpchocken.  This  was  approved  by  the  Ministeriuin, 
and  the  above  call  was  ordered  to  be  extended  to  the  younger  Mr.  Kurtz, 
with  this  condition,  and  the  elder  Mr.  Kurtz  was  advised  that,  on  his 
intended  visit,  be  should  further  straighten  out  matters.  Further, 
several  members  of  the  Ministerium  asked  whether  Pastor  Stover  might 
join  the  union  this  time?  Answer:  "  Yes,  if  he  desired  it,  and  the 
Ministerium  consented."  Pastor  Gerock  arose  and  asked  Pastor  Stover 
his  opinion,  whether  he  wished  to  be  a  member?  Answer  :  "That  it  was 
his  desire,  if  the  aim  of  the  Ministerium  be  the  honor  of  God,  the  propa- 
gation of  the  pure  evangelical  doctrine,  and  the  up-building  of  our 
Church."  The  President  replied  that  no  worldly  honor,  no  material  in- 
terest, as  also  no  carnal  pleasure,  but  the  honor  of  God  and  the  welfare 
of  our  congregations  was  the  basis  and  aim  of  our  union.  Pastor  Stover 
remarked,  while  outside  of  the  union  be  had  taught  and  done  as  best 
he  knew.  The  President  answered  :  "  Jf  the  Most  Holy  God  wished  to 
reckon  with  the  best  of  his  servants  concerning  their  office  and  condi- 
tion, not  a  single  thing  in  a  thousand  could  be  answered."  When  the 
votes  in  approbation  of  his  reception  were  asked  for,  and  Dr.  Wrangel 
was  asked  first,  he  answered  that  he  had  directions  from  the  most 
worthy  Archbishop  to  live  in  harmony  with  the  regular  German  Minis- 
teriuin, and  that  if  we  found  sufficient  reason  for  receiving  Pastor 
Stover  he  would  not  hinder  us.  The  President  perceived  that  it  was 
unanimously  approved  by  all  the  members  of  the  Ministerium  present, 
and  extended  to  him  hand  and  heart  with  congratulations,  as  also  did 
all  the  others,  one  and  all  laying  aside  old  misunderstandings.  By  this 
time  evening  had  come.  The  President  had  thought  that  the  younger 
Mr.  Kurtz  would  preach  the  evening  sermon  in  the  church,  but,  as  he 
had  not  returned  from  Germautown,the  elder  Mr.  Kurtz  was  requested 
to  speak  a  word  of  exhortation.  About  seven  o'clock,  therefore,  we 
went  to  church,  where  we  found  a  large  assembly,  and  Mr.  Kurtz 
preached  on  I  John  3:  23,  "And  this  is  his  commandment,"  etc.,  as 


74  DOCUMENTARY  HISTOHY. 

well  as  the  Lord  granted  and  the  disturbances  of  the  whole  day  per- 
mitted him.  Finally  it  was  announced  that  to-morrow  forenoon,  God 
willing,  the  public  examination  of  the  school  children  was  to  be  held. 
After  the  service,  Dr.  Wrangel,  Pastor  Handschuh  and  three  trustees 
went  to  Mr.  Whitefield,  and  asked  whether  he  would  attend  our  exami- 
nation in  the  church  to-morrow  forenoon,  and  address  an  earnest  word 
to  the  children  ?  Answer :  "  Yes,  if  his  strength  permitted  and  it  was 
God's  gracious  will." 

October  18,  about  ten  o'clock  in  the  forenoon  we  went  to  the  church 
and  took  the  children  along.  The  following  ministers  joined  us : 
Messrs.  Duchee  and  Ingliss,  of  the  High  Church  ;  President  Dr.  Fin- 
ley,  of  the  Jersey  Presbyterian  High  School,  Senior  Tennent,  a 
Presbyterian  preacher  from  Newark,  and  finally  Mr.  Whitefield,  and 
with  him  a  number  of  English  friends,  so  that  the  church  was  filled 
with  English  and  Germans,  and  the  children  were  crowded.  Mr. 
Whitefield  went  into  the  pulpit,  offered  a  fervent  and  impressive 
prayer,  then  turned  to  the  children  and  made  a  simple  and  easily- 
understood  address  about  pious  children  of  the  Old  and  New  Testa- 
ments, and  gave  some  modern  examples  which  had  happened  in  his 
time.  He  was  deeply  moved,  and  wept,  and  afterwards  also  impressed 
their  duty  upon  the  parents.  After  this  the  children  were  catechised, 
partly  by  Dr.  Wrangel,  partly,  also,  by  me  in  German ;  but  as  Mr. 
Whitefield  was  very  weak  physically,  and  the  crowd  in  the  church 
became  too  great,  we  had  to  stop,  and  closed  with  a  selection  of  Church 
music. 

The  preachers  and  other  delegates,  elders  and  deacons  who  yet 
remained  dined  in  the  school- house,  where  the  aged  Mr.  Tennent  pre- 
sided and  refreshed  us  with  edifying  discourse.  Afterwards  the  Minis- 
terium  again  went  to  its  work,  taking  several  elders  along. 

1 .  A  messenger  (Nicolaus  Budinger)  arrived  from  the  congregations 
in  and  about  Conowago  across  the  Susquehanna,  with  letters  to  the 
Ministerium,  in  which  request  was  made  for  a  preacher.  But  if  they 
could  not  at  present  be  supplied  writh  one  they  asked  for  a  certain  cate- 
chist,  C.  W.,  who  formerly  had  held  school  among  them,  and  had 
already  conducted  worship  in  Winchester,  in  Virginia,  from  which 
place  he  had  come  to  them  on  account  of  Indian  disturbances.  The 
Ministerium  debated  long  on  this  point,  and  finally  resolved  that, 
until  further  knowledge,  the  above-mentioned  catechist  and  school- 
master might  labor  in  the  congregations  and  baptize  the  children,  and, 
in  extreme  necessity,  give  communion  to  a  sick  person,  and  should  be 
under  the  nearer  supervision  of  the  preacher  in  Yorktown,  in  con- 
nection with  which  it  was  advised   that   instructions   be   given   him, 


SIXTEENTH  CONVENTION,  176S.  75 

defining  his  official  duties  and  relations.  Pastor  Gerock  prepared  Buch 
instructions,  specifying,  among  other  things,  also,  with  the  approval  of 
the  Ministerium,  that  he  should  keep  a  diary  and  send  it  in,  as  also,  at 
the  same  time,  testimonials  of  his  conduct  from  Winchester,  etc.  With 
this  the  messenger  was  dismissed. 

2.  [In  the  meantime  Apoth.  S.  entered  and  handed  in  a  writing  of 
complaint  and  also  a  separate  writing  against  Bey.  Handschuh  and  the 
Church  Council  of  the  Philadelphia  congregation  with  the  request  that 
the  Reverend  Ministerium  should  adjust  their  quarrel.  I  answered  that 
this  could  not  he  attended  to  immediately  upon  their  request,  because 
there  was  much  business  to  be  transacted  with  the  delegates  of  the  dis- 
tant congregations,  which  must  first  be  finished.  He  answered  that  we 
could  call  him  at  any  time,  and  he  would  come.] 

3.  The  younger  Mr.  Kurtz  being  now  present,  the  call  from  Earl  town 
and  Conestoga  was  delivered  to  him  with  due  exhortation  and  wish  of 
blessing,  and  wTas  accepted  by  him  after  it  had  been  approved  by  the 
Ministerium  in  writing.  As  it  was  evening  we  went  to  church,  found 
the  house  crowded  and  listened  to  an  edifying  sermon  by  Mr.  Kurtz, 
Jr.,  on  II  Cor.  6:1:  "  That  ye  receive  not  the  grace  of  God  in  vain." 
Afterwards  we  again  went  to  the  school-house  to  our  work. 

4.  Attention  was  called  (by  Mr.  Hausihl)  to  the  fact  that  as  the 
preacher  of  Reading  would  move  to  Easton,  au  old  and  important  filial 
congregation  in  Richmond  would  become  vacant,  it  was  asked  whether 
Pastor  Schaum,  who  lived  nearest  to  it,1  might  not  serve  this  congrega- 
tion along  with  his  others  ?  The  Ministerium  voted :  Yes,  if  Pastor 
Schaum  were  willing  to  render  the  service  and  the  congregation  wanted 
him. 

5.  The  delegate  from  New  York  was  called  in,  and  a  letter  of  com- 
plaint signed  by  fourteen  dissatisfied  men  was  read.  Rev.  Bager  and  the 
delegate  objected,  saying  that  among  the  subscribers  and  complainants 
only  a  few  belonged  to  their  congregation,  and  that  their  points  of  com- 
plaint were  mostly  not  in  accordance  with  love  and  truth.  But  as  the 
complainants  were  not  personally  present,  no  impartial  judgment  could 
be  given,  and  it  was  left  to  the  President  to  write  an  answer  and  send  it 
with  these  men,  viz.:  1.  That  the  point  concerning  the  collectors  did  not 
belong  to  our  forum,  and  as  the  matter  was  already  given  into  the  hands 
of  four  impartial  arbitrators,  and  agreements  made  by  both  parties,  we 
could  do  nothing  in  the  matter.  2.  And  as  to  the  election  of  the  dea- 
cons, in  the  future  it  must  be  conformed  to  the  order  of  the  other  United 
Congregations. 

6.  Finally,  late  at  night,  the  written  complaint  of  Apoth.  Schu.  and 

1  About  seven  miles  away. 


76  DOCUMENTAEY  HISTORY. 

twelve  other  subscribers  against  Mr.  Handschuh  and  the  old  Church 
Council  was  opened  and  read  in  the  Ministerium,  and  contained  the  fol- 
lowing points:  1.  Mr.  Handschuh  was  accused  of  blasphemy;  2.  The 
charge  was  made  that  Mr.  Handschuh  and  the  former  elders  and  dea- 
cons [in  the  congregational  strife  going  on  before  Muhlenberg  came,] 
had  bound  themselves  together  by  oaths  against  the  complainants;  3. 
They  desired  to  know  the  summa  summarum  of  the  building  of  the 
school-house ;  4.  And  that  fixed  salaries  might  be  decided  upon  for  the 
preachers. 

As  the  Ministerium  was  alone,  and  no  delegates  were  present,  a  dis- 
cussion of  the  matter  in  general  and  in  detail  was  held.  1.  Of  the  so- 
called  blasphemy  of  Mr.  Handschuh.  The  status  controversies  was  this  : 
a,  Mr.  Handschuh  was  said  to  have  met  Apoth.  Sch.  and  Peter  Miiller 
at  a  certain  time  not  far  from  the  church,  and  to  have  asked  Peter 
Miiller,  whether  he  would  not  soon  leave  the  Moravians  and  return  to 
the  church.  Further  Mr.  Handschuh  is  to  have  added  :  "  If  God  the 
Lord  does  not  destroy  the  Moravians,  root  and  branch,  in  ten  years,  He 
is  no  righteous  God  !  If  Jesus  Christ  does  not  destroy  the  Moravians, 
root  and  branch,  he  is  no  righteous  Jesus  !  "  Whereupon  P.  M.  is  said 
to  have  answered:  "  Pastor,  you  set  me  a  bad  example."  b,  After  it  was 
taken  for  granted,  that  the  words  were  so  uttered  and  spoken,  and  could 
be  verified  by  witnesses,  each  member  of  the  Ministerium  gave  his 
opinion,  whether  this  were  blasphemy ;  but  first  Mr.  Handschuh  was 
allowed  to  explain  under  what  circumstances  and  with  what  intention 
he  had  spoken  such  words,  since  it  is  necessary  that  altera  pars  be  also 
heard,  c,  Mr.  Handschuh  said  that  he  had  on  that  day  and  before, 
read  's  book  on  the  errors  of  the  Moravians,  and  especially  a  con- 
gregational address  by  Count  Zinzendorf,  by  which  he  was  rendered 
both  sad  and  indignant,  and  as  not  only  Mr.  L.  W.,  but  also  this  P. 

M r  came  within  his  hearing,  these  words  or  similar  might  well 

have  been  uttered  by  him.  The  members  present  decided  that,  if  the 
intention  were  considered,  it  was  not  indeed  blasphemy,  yet  it  was  a 
hasty,  thoughtless  and  sinful  way  of  speaking,  for  which  he  must  repent 
before  God  and  pray  for  forgiveness,  and  not  use  it  in  the  future.  Rev. 
Gerock,  however,  would  not  express  his  opinion,  though  much  urged  to 
do  so,  for  reasons  that  seemed  sufficient  to  him,  and  therefore  requested 
that  Mr.  Handschuh  retire,  which  he  did ;  and  thereupon  Mr.  Gerock 
said,  that  he  did  not  believe  that  Mr.  Handschuh's  intention  and  mean- 
ing were  to  blaspheme  God,  but  the  words  nevertheless  sounded  like  blas- 
phemy. Rev.  Hausihl  suggested  that  we  ought  to  inquire  whether  Mr. 
Handschuh  insisted  that  he  had  spoken  rightly,  when  he  was  censured 
for  it,  or  whether  he  confessed  on  having  his  attention  called  to  it,  that 


SIXTEENTH  CONVENTION,  17G3.  77 

he  bad  spoken  unjustly.  In  making  the  inquiry  it  could  not  be  clearly 
learned  whether  bo  were  sorry, or  considered  himself  in  the  right;  con- 
sequently be  was  advised  by  all  the  members  present  to  recognize  bis 
rashness,  pray  God  for  forgiveness,  and  on  the  morrow,  God  willing, 
explain  matters  to  Mr.  Scbu.  in  unequivocal  words,  and  again  make 
amends  for  the  scandal  that  had  been  occasioned.  2.  In  reference  to  the 
second  point,  the  oath  of  Mr.  Handschuh  and  the  elders  and  deacons, 
the  Protocol  was  asked  for  and  brought,  in  order  to  examine  the 
formula  used.  In  it  the  formula  stands  at  the  end,  viz :  "  To  the  above 
We  bind  ourselves  in  His  Most  Holy  Name,  as  true  as  God  will  grant 
us  help  and  assistance  in  His  time,"  and  then  follow  the  signatures. 

[In  Halle  Doc] 

[X.  B. — I  was  frightened  by  this  Protocol  record,  and  wished  it 
were  no  longer  in  existence,  because  I  best  understood  the  purpose  and 
contents  of  it.  For  the  obligation  by  oath  was  made  on  January  12, 
1761,  when  a  short  time  before  the  so-called  dissatisfied  parties  had 
ridden  over  to  me  at  Providence  and  urged  me  to  come  down  and  help 
the  congregation,  so  that  the  obligation  was  not  only  against  the  com- 
plaining members,  but  also  against  the  Provost  and  myself,  as  the 
answer  of  the  Church  Council  of  February  20, 1761,  shows  more  clearly, 
in  which  Mr.  Handschuh  expressly  writes:  "We  have  bound  ourselves 
by  oath  and  fraternally  to  stand  by  one  another."  Now,  since  neither 
the  complaining  members,  nor  the  Provost,  nor  I  were  at  any  time 
heard,  and  yet  judgment  passed  against  the  complaining  party,  and 
moreover  this  was  recorded  in  the  Church  Book  as  an  everlasting  me- 
morial, and  we  on  the  other  hand  in  the  new  Church  Order  had  declared 
Mr.  Handschuh  and  all  the  elders  blameless  and  honorable,  and 
attested  this  with  our  names  for  future  generations  to  read  it ;  it  was 
very  unjust  that  we  and  our  children  should  be  immortalized  in  the 
Church  Protocol  as  condemned  rebels.  This  was  executio  si>ie  causa 
oognitione.~\ 

I  let  the  others  judge  as  impartial  members  after  I  had  made  the 
following  remarks,  viz. :  That  it  seemed  to  me  that  as  disturbances  and 
dissatisfactions  had  arisen  in  the  congregation,  the  elders  and  deacons 
bad  become  afraid,  and  worried  lest  finally  a  division  might  result 
among  themselves,  since  they  bad  the  example  of  the  Gennantown 
congregation  in  mind,  and  that  they  therefore  bound  themselves 
together  to  stand  as  one  man  ;  further,  I  said  nothing.  The  members 
considered  the  above  formula  in  the  Protocol  for  a  while,  and  finally 
voted  that  it  was  not  a  formal  oath,  but  was  rather  a  wish.1  As  it  was 
•But  Mr.  Gerock  held  his  judicium  in  suspemo. 


78  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

already  one  o'clock  at  night  and  all  were  very  tired,  each  went  to  his 
quarters,  Messrs.  Gerock  and  Handschuh  speaking  together  cordially. 

Wednesday,  October  19,  about  9  o'clock  a.  m.,  the  Reverend  Minis- 
terium  again  met  in  the  school-house,  where  Mr.  Apoth.  Sch.  presented 
himself,  and  soon  after  Mr.  Brechel  also  joined  us.  The  complaint 
against  Rev.  Mr.  Handschuh  was  taken  up,  and  in  detail :  1.  Concern- 
ingfthe  reported  blasphemy: 

a.  Mr.  Ap.  S.  related  how  the  words  had  been  spoken  in  the  pres- 
ence of  himself  and  P.  M. 

b.  Mr.  Handschuh  gave  his  explanation,  and  told  under  what  cir- 
cumstances and  in  Avhat  spirit  he  had  spoken  the  words. 

c.  The  members  of  the  Ministerium  present  voted,  except  Rev.  Mr. 
Gerock,  who  yet  preferred  to  hold  his  judgment  in  suspense  in  this 
matter.  The  other  members  voted,  and  said  that  it  was  a  sinful  rashness 
and  thoughtless  way  of  speaking,  but  not  an  intended  blasphemy.  Mr. 
Gerock  finally,  after  much  urging,  added  that  the  words  sounded 
blasphemously,  but  he  did  not  believe  that  it  was  Mr.  Handschuh's 
intention  to  blaspheme,  but  believed,  rather,  that  he  was  sorry  for  the 
expressions,  and  would  pray  God  for  forgiveness. 

d.  Mr.  Handschuh  recognized  and  confessed  that  the  above- 
mentioned  expressions  were  unintentionally  scandalous  and  offensive, 
and  asked  Mr.  Sch.  for  forgiveness,  which  was  granted,  and  they  were 
advised  to  think  no  more  of  this  matter.  When  Mr.  Ap.  S.  was  here- 
upon asked  whether  in  the  future  he  would  have  any  conscientious 
scruples  in  receiving  communion  from  Mr.  Handchuh,  he  answered 
that  he  could  not  tell  that  yet,  because  other  points  were  not  yet 
decided.  [He  also  gave  as  his  opinion  that  the  Ministerium  had  passed 
too  light  a  judgment,  as  though  Mr.  Handschuh  had  spoken  the  words 
out  of  weakness  and  hastily,  whereas  a  certain  friend  of  the  so-called 
Moravians,  William  Becker,  had  gone  to  Mr.  Handschuh  some  time 
after  the  affair,  and  asked  him  whether  he  had  used  such  hard  expres- 
sions, whereupon  Mr.  Handschuh  answered,  "  Yes,  I  have,  and  it  is 
still  so."] 

2d  point.  Concerning  the  formula  of  the  obligation  and  oath  in  the 
Protocol,  between  Mr.  Handschuh,  the  elders  and  deacons.  The  closing 
words  in  the  Protocol  were  read,  and  then  each  member  of  the  Reverend 
Ministerium  was  asked  his  opinion,  whether  he  considered  this  an 
oath  or  something  of  that  kind.  Rev.  Mr.  Gerock  requested  to  be 
allowed  to  keep  his  judgment  in  suspense,  for  reasons  known  to  himself, 
which  he  would  later  reveal.  The  others  members,  except  Handschuh 
and  Miihlenberg,  voted  and  decided  that  the  formula  was  more  of  a 
wish  than  an  oath.     But  Mr.  Ap.  Schu.  insisted  that  it  was  a  union 


SIXTEENTH  CONVENTION,  17G3.  79 

and  obligation  by  oath.  Thereupon  the  Protocol  was  again  handed  to 
Rev.  Gerock,  and  he  was  requested  to  read  the  formula  again.  But 
Rev.  Gerock,  instead  of  the  last  words,  read  the  whole  closing  paragraph 
from  beginning  to  end,  and  Mr.  Brechel  became  exasperated,  saying 
that  in  the  Protocol  the  dissatisfied  persons,  together  with  their  children, 
and  children's  children,  were,  on  account  of  matters  in  which  they 
were  not  heard, condemned,  defamed,  and  thus  recorded  in  the  Protocol 
as  a  memorial,  and  this  ought  not  to  remain  thus.  As  the  Ministerium 
saw  that  it  could  not  proceed  further  in  the  matter,  and  had  more 
necessary  matters  to  occupy  its  attention,  the  further  consideration  of 
the  subject  was  referred  to  a  special  conference  of  several  preachers  and 
the  Church  Council,  as  also  of  the  complaining  members  of  the  congrega- 
tion. Then  the  matter  was  to  be  further  examined  into,  and,  if  possible, 
brought  to  an  end.  This  was  the  decision  of  the  Ministerium.  [Mr. 
Ap.  Schu.  consented  to  this,  making  the  request  that  it  might  be  held 
soon,  and  saying  that  only  the  old  elders  were  needed  there,  so  that  it 
might  be  held  without  much  observance.]  Mr.  Schu.  and  Mr.  Br. 
were  requested  to  keep  the  matter  as  quiet  as  possible,  until  it  was  fully 
decided.  It  is  to  be  remarked  that  Mr.  Schu.  several  times  said  in  the 
meeting:  "Mr.  Handschuh,  I  am  not  hostile  to  you;  I  know  your 
temperament;  I  don't  want  you  to  lose  your  means  of  subsistence." 

3.  After  Messrs.  Schu.  and  Br.  had  left,  the  Ministerium  resolved  to 
prepare  a  brief  statement  in  which  it  would  notify  the  honorable  Church 
Council  of  the  special  meeting  for  the  further  investigation,  and  recom- 
mend it  to  them.  Rev.  Gerock  prepared  such  a  document,  which  was 
also  signed  by  the  rest,  excepting  Muhlenberg  and  Handschuh. 

4.  A  letter  from  the  congregations  in  Manchester  and  Paradise  Town- 
ship, beyond  Yorktown,  was  read,  in  which  the  congregation  requested  : 
1.  That  they  might  also  be  under  the  supervision  of  the  United  Minis- 
terium ;  2,  that  help  be  granted  them  ;  and  3,  that,  as  they  had  a  man 
among  them,  Schwab rbnch  by  name,  who  lived  an  exemplary  life, 
instructed  them  in  the  Word  of  God,  and  also  held  instruction  for  chil- 
dren, they  wished  that  this  man  be  allowed  to  continue  among  them, 
but  that  Rev.  Hornell,  of  Yorktown,  administer  the  Ploly  Sacraments 
to  them,  and  have  Mr.  Schwahrbach  under  his  nearer  supervision. 
There  was  a  long  debate  on  this,  and  finally  it  was  decided  that  Mr. 
Schwahrbach  might  read  or  hold  exhortations  and  catechisations  on 
Sundays  and  Festival  days,  and  until  further  knowledge  be  under  the 

r  supervision  of  Rev.  Hornell,  of  Yorktown,  as  the  congregations 
in  any  case  were  to  be  considered  filials  of  Yorktown. 

[o.  The  President  stated  that  a  delegate  from  Lancaster,  Mr.  C.  S., 
desired  to  bring  the  following  before  the  Ministerium  and  have  it  dis- 


80  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

cussed,  viz. :  That  most  of  the  elders  and  members  of  the  congregation 
wished  that  Rev.  G.  might  exchange  with  somebody  for  a  while,  a, 
because  the  congregation  was  involved  in  the  heavy  expenses  of  building 
a  church;  b,  many  did  not  want  to  give  the  amount  they  had  promised, 
alleging  that  everything  was  so  cold  in  the  congregation,  the  pastor 
made  no  pastoral  visits,  etc.  Rev.  G.  answered :  a,  if  a  change  was  to 
be  made,  the  congregation  must  tell  him  so  itself;  and  b,  have  the  per- 
mission and  the  consent  of  honorable  Consistorium  of  the  Dukedom  of 
"Wiirttemberg.  But  as  to  his  not  visiting  the  sick  or  families,  the  charge 
could  not  be  proved,  since  the  sick  who  needed  attention  were  in  no 
wise  neglected.  Of  an  exchange  of  preachers,  Rev.  G.  had  made  a 
proposition  several  years  ago  already,  whenever  circumstances  would 
permit  it;  and  if  the  Lancaster  congregation  itself  desired  a  change,  he 
knew  a  place  to  which  he  could  go.] 

6.  Rev.  Gerock  called  attention  to  the  fact  that  Pastor  Schwertfeger, 
in  Frederickstown,  Maryland,  had  as  yet  no  regular  call  from  the  con- 
gregation, and  asked  whether  he  should  write  one  and  have  the  congre- 
gation sign  it  and  send  it  to  the  Ministerium,  and  the  Ministerium  then 
deliver  it  to  Mr.  Schwertfeger ?  Answer:  "Yes."  Rev.  Gerock  was 
requested  to  arrange  this  matter. 

7.  H.  M.  resigned  his  office  as  President,  and  requested  that  some  one 
else  be  elected,  as  his  circumstances  would  not  permit  him  to  serve  any 
longer.  The  election  was  held  as  usual  by  votes,  and  he  had  to  accept 
it  for  one  year  more,  but  declined  to  receive  congratulations. 

8.  About  four  o'clock  p.m.,  Mr.  George  Whiteneld  paid  a  friendly 
visit  to  the  Ministerium  in  the  school-house,  took  leave  with  emotion, 
and  commended  himself  to  our  prayers  and  remembrance  before  the 
Throne  of  Grace. 

[9.  Muhlenberg  made  the  following  statement  to  the  Rev.  Minis- 
terium. On  July  18,  1753,  a  box  was  deposited  with  the  late  Rev. 
Brunnholtz  in  Philadelphia,  in  which  was  found  an  edifying  communi- 
cation of  Mr.  John  Gottlob  Bruckholtz,  Advocatus  Electoralis  Saxonico- 
Lipsiensis  et  Notarius  Publicus  Csesareus,  addressed  to  the  United 
Lutheran  Ministerium  of  that  time  and  in  particular  to  Muhlenberg,  in 
which  it  was  announced  that  in  the  box  there  were  all  sorts  of  books, 
with  a  catalogue,  as  also  eight  pieces  of  Saxon  coin  for  eight  preachers, 
a  four  groschen  and  a  two  groschen  piece  for  school-teachers,  and  fifty 
quarter  groschen  for  orphan  children,  and  two  plain  summer  caps,  and 
all  were  intended  ad  pias  causas.  Since  the  noble  benefactor's  kind 
apportionment  was  of  such  kind,  that  the  gifts  mentioned  could  not  be 
apportioned  in  all  parts  as  directed,  the  box  remained  with  the  late  Rev. 
Brunnholtz  for  several  years,  and  good  care  was  taken  of  it,  until  he 


SIXTEENTH  CONVENTION,  1763.  81 

had  written  and  asked  our  friends  in  Europe,  what  we  were  to  do  in  the 
mal  ter.  Thereupon  answer  was  finally  received,  that  the  United  Preach- 
ers should  divide  the  gifts  as  hest  they  knew  how.  The  war  times, 
which  came  in  1755,  and  other  circumstances  in  the  meantime  inter- 
rupted our  annual  synodical  meetings,  and  Mr.  Brunnholtz  was  unwill- 
ing to  undertake  the  division  of  the  hooks  alone,  and  died  in  1757, 
leaving  the  books,  etc.,  behind  undivided.  Since  then,  after  his  death, 
Rev.  Handschuh  succeeded  him  in  Philadelphia,  but  the  renewal  of  our 
annual  preachers'  meeting  was  yet  delayed.  I  wrote  to  Rev.  Hand- 
schuh in  the  Spring  of  1759,  sent  along  the  letter  of  the  noble  benefac- 
tor and  requested  that  he  demand  the  books,  etc.,  of  the  executors  of  the 
late  Rev.  Brunnholtz's  estate,  take  charge  of  them,  and  divide  them  as 
best  he  could  according  to  the  directions  of  our  European  friends.  But 
I  desired  to  have  none  of  the  gifts  mentioned.  Nothing  more  concerning 
the  matter  was  heard  until  on  January  10,  17G3,  I  found  opportunity 
in  a  congregational  council  in  Philadelphia  to  inquire  after  the  books 
and  other  things,  and  publicly  to  read  the  letter  of  our  noble  benefactor, 
and  received  the  following  explanation,  viz.: 

1.  The  executor,  Mr.  Jacob  Graf,  Sr.,  declared  that  he  had  exchanged 
the  foreign  money  at  the  silversmith's,  and  received  twenty  shillings 
currency  for  it,  and  also  had  retained  several  pieces,  which  were  at  our 
service  as  soon  as  they  were  asked  for. 

2.  That  on  February  27,  1759,  he  had  sent  the  books  mentioned, 
which  did  not  belong  to  the  late  Rev.  Brunnholtz's  estate,  to  Rev. 
Handschuh's  house,  by  the  Widow  Wohlfart  and  Margaretha  Horn, 
and  presumably  he  had  sold  the  two  old  summer  caps  and  the  two 
neckties  with  the  other  things. 

So  also  the  Rev.  Handschuh  declared  in  the  same  congregational 
council :  1.  That  the  catalogue  of  the  noble  benefactor's  books  was  still 
in  existence,  and 

2.  That  of  the  books,  he  sent  some  to  Rev.  Kurtz,  Sr.,  to  use,  and 
also  had  given  a  goodly  part  of  the  devotional  German  books  to  needy 
schoolmasters,  and  poor  fugitives  from  the  Blue  Mountains,  and  still 
had  a  part  of  them  in  his  house. 

In  order  to  adjust  the  matter  as  far  as  possible,  I  took  the  catalogue 
of  all  the  books  in  charge;  on  February  24,  1763,  I  had  the  books  yet 
remaining  brought  from  Rev.  Handschuh's  to  the  school-house  by  our 
deacons,  in  the  presence  of  several  elders,  made  a  record  of  them  one 
by  one,  and  while  doing  this  found  several  belonging  to  the  Church 
Library,  of  which  I  also  made  a  record,  and  laid  them  with  those  in 
the  box.  This  box,  together  with  the  catalogue,  has  since  then  been 
kept  in  the  library,  and  I  now,  on  this  19th  of  October,  17G3,  give  it. 
6 


82  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

over  to  the  Rev.  Ministeriuni  for  their  examination  and  further  dispo- 
fcitiou,  with  the  following  conditions  and  questions : 

1.  I  ask  that  the  letter  of  the  noble  benefactor  be  read  aloud.  This 
was  done. 

2.  What  shall  be  done  with  the  twenty  shillings?  Unanimous 
answer:  It  can  be  given  to  the  poor  for  their  soul's  welfare. 

3.  Shall  two  books  be  placed  in  the  Church  Library,  according  to 
the  disposition  of  the  benefactor  ?  Answer :  Yes,  it  is  well  a*nd  right. 
Accordingly  the  only  folio  and  a  quarto  were  chosen  and  added  to  the 
library. 

4.  Since  the  poor  already  have  their  best  part,  do  the  remaining 
books  belong  to  the  laborers  and  servants  of  Christ?  Answer:  Yes. 
Dr.  Wrangel,  Missionary  Heggeblad,  Muhlenberg  [and  Handschuh] 
refused  to  have  a  share  in  them.  Mr.  Kurtz  already  had  some,  and  of 
these  is  to  give  half  to  Mr.  Schaum.  As  to  the  others,  it  was  resolved 
that  the  rest  should  be  apportioned  by  lot  to  the  preachers  present,  and 
those  absent,  ten  in  number.     This  was  satisfactorily  done.] 

Finally,  Dr.  Wrangel  requested  the  brethren  yet  present,  that  each 
on  his  part,  as  he  was  able,  should  furnish  some  documents  referring  to 
the  first  beginning  and  progress  of  the  Evangelical  German  congrega- 
tions in  Pennsylvania  for  an  intended  history,  which  was  promised.  In 
the  evening  we  again  went  to  church,  where  we  found  the  auditorium 
crowded.  Dr.  Wrangel  discussed  the  second  part  of  the  sermon  he  had 
begun  on  II  Cor.  5 :  14,  "  Of  the  fruits  of  the  constraining  love  of  Jesus 
in  the  true  servants  of  Jesus,"  and  dismissed  the  meeting  for  this  year 
with  a  hearty  wish  of  blessing  and  thanksgiving,  and  the  President 
closed  with  prayer.  Afterwards  we  again  went  to  the  school-house, 
where  the  Church  Council  rendered  its  thanks  to  the  Ministerium.  The 
Dr.  Provost  handed  to  them  the  written  request  of  the  Ministerium  for 
a  meeting  of  Church  Council  to  keep  peace  in  the  congregation.   Amen ! 

P.  S. — After  almost  every  annual  meeting,  I  have  noticed  that  a  special 
trial  and  sorrow  have  come  upon  our  poor  preachers  and  congrega- 
tions ;  I  therefore  prayed  in  closing,  that  the  Lord  mercifully  would 
grant  us  poor  servants  that  we  have  our  feet  shod  and  be  ready  to  carry 
the  Gospel  of  Peace  forward.  Dark  clouds  are  already  gathering,  and 
new  rods  will  be  bound  of  a  new  kind,  which  we  have  not  yet  tasted ! 
Help  us  to  suffer  and  to  conquer,  Jesus,  Thou  Prince  of  Life ! 


SEVENTEENTH  CONVENTION. 
1764. 


The  meeting  was  to  have  been  held  in  September,  in  Philadelphia  or 
Germantown  [H.  N.  o.  e.  1161.  N.  E.  II.  567.],  but  no  trace  of 
proceedings  has  been  discovered. 


EIGHTEENTH   CONVENTION. 
1765. 


No  record  of  date,  place  or  proceedings. 

83 


NINETEENTH   CONVENTION. 

1766. 

(June  10-13,  Tuesday — Friday,  Philadelphia.) 


[Muhlenberg  Journal.     MS.  I.  21  p.  73  f.     A  part  of  the  Protocol]. 

Tuesday,  June  10,  1766,  a.  m.,  the  delegates  of  the  United  Con- 
gregations reported,  and  the  pastors,  some  of  whom  had  arrived 
yesterday,  assembled  and  held  the  first  conference  in  the  school- 
house,  where,  in  the  morning,  were  present :  1.  Sr.  Dr.  Wrangel ;  2.  H. 
Muhlenberg;  3.  Mr.  Wilhelm  Kurtz,  Minister  from  Earltown ;  4.  Ludwig 
Voight,  Minister  from  Newburg  and  Providence ;  5.  Joh.  Andreas 
Krug,  Minister  from  Reading ;  6.  Emanuel  Schultz,  Minister  from  Phila- 
delphia ;  7.  Rev.  Bryzelius,  Minister  from  New  Germantown,  in  Jersey  ; 
8.  Catechist  Johannes  Schwarbach,  from  Culpepper  County,  in  Virginia. 

After  prayer,  two  letters  from  deacons  and  members  of  congrega- 
tions in  Vii'ginia,  dated  Culpepper,  December  20,  1765,  were  read. 
Further,  two  letters  from  Augusta  County,  in  Virginia,  on  Fort  Run, 
dated  February  9,  and  May  17,  1766,  in  which  the  forsaken  condition  of 
those  adhering  to  our  German  Evangelical  faith  istouchingly  presented, 
and  the  Rev.  Ministerium  is  supplicated  for  aid  in  general,  and  a  partic- 
ular request  is  made,  that  it  examine  and  ordain  their  Cathechist,  Mr. 
Johannes  Schwarbach,  whom  they  have  sent  hither,  a  distance  of  300 
miles,  because  their  children  not  being  baptized  are  growing  into  heath- 
enism, and  the  older  persons,  when  they  die,  because  of  the  absence  of 
any  ordained  preacher,  must  depart  without  the  Lord's  Supper,  and  thus 
be  without  this  refreshment  of  the  soul  even  on  their  death  beds.  Since 
the  said  Mr.  Schwarbach  is  a  man  45  years  of  age,  capable  of  an  hon- 
orable profession,  and  has  already  for  some  years  served  the  forsaken 
adherents  of  the  German  faith  on  the  frontier  of  Pennsylvania,  with 
reading,  instruction  of  children,  and  an  edifying  walk  and  conversation, 
according  to  the  measure  of  grace  and  gifts  given  by  God,  and  has  now 
for  some  time  been  doing  the  same  in  the  wilds  of  Virginia,  and  has 
exerted  himself  to  seek  out  the  old  and  the  children,  and  to  edify  them 
with  catechetical  instruction,  they  petition  that,  for  the  sake  of  Christ 
and  the  welfare  of  souls,  a  United  Evangelical  Ministerium  may  take 
84 


TWENTIETH  CONVENTION,  1707.  86 

pity  upon  them,  examine  said  man,  and  if  they  find  in  him  moderate 
ability,  grant  him  authority  to  administer  Holy  Baptism  and  the  Lord's 
Supper,  until  the  Lord  of  the  harvest  send  faithful  and  regular  laborers 
into  his  harvest,  and  that  said  Schwarbach  then  apply  himself  to  the 
children  alone,  and  feed  them  as  the  lambs.  The  members  of  the  Min- 
isterium  present,  moved  by  the  elders,  inquired  strictly  into  the  moral 
character  of  the  man,  and  found  on  all  sides  good  testimonials  of  his 
Christian  life,  and  unanimously  resolved  to  examine  him.  The  exami- 
nation was  upon  the  following  articles  :  1.  Of  the  divine  guidance  in 
respect  to  his  own  soul,  viz :  iu  the  course  of  his  life ;  2.  Where  he  was 
converted  ?  what  induced  him  to  hold  instruction  for  children  and  to 
preach  ?  why  he  did  not  like  other  vagabond  preachers  also  administer 
the  Sacraments  ?  3.  Of  the  universal  redemption  of  all  the  children  of 
Adam  through  Christ,  the  Saviour  of  the  world;  4.  What  he  thinks  of 
repentance,  and  how  man  became  repentant?  how  the  preacher  has  to 
remove  the  obstacles  in  the  way  to  repentance?  5.  What  it  means  to 
believe  on  Christ,  and  what  is  required  for  saving  faith?  6.  "What  are 
unmistakable  signs  of  true  conversion,  of  repentance  and  of  faith  ?  7. 
How  he  conducted  himself  in  visiting  the  sick,  especially  when  he  had 
not  previously  known  the  sick  persons  ?  How  careful  a  teacher  must 
be  that  conversion  do  not  arise  or  be  attempted  from  a  servile  fear  of 
punishment,  but  from  love  to  God  in  Christ?  8.  How  things  went  with 
him  in  the  many  journeys  hither  and  thither  in  the  -wilderness  by  day 
and  by  night,  whether  he  watched  over  his  own  soul  and  prayed  ?  How 
he  felt  in  considering  the  importance  of  his  office,  whether  he  walks  in 
humility  before  God?  9.  What  he  held  of  the  Baptism  of  children  and 
the  Lord's  Supper?  10.  How  he  refuted  the  doctrine  of  absolute  pre- 
destination. 

[The  date  as  given  by  Dr.  Mann,  H.  N.,  n.  e.  264,  is  that  of  the  lay- 
ing of  the  foundation  stone  of  Zion's  Church,  May  16,  which  was  fol- 
lowed by  the  laying  of  the  corner-stone  and  the  meeting  of  the  Minis- 
terium,  June  11,  cf.  H.  N.,  o.  e.  1246,  n.  e.  623]. 


TWENTIETH   CONVENTION. 
1767. 


(Dr.  Mann  places  the  meeting  in  July,  but  the  reference  to  II.  N  . 
o.  e.  1331,  does  not  establish  this,  and  Muhlenberg's  diary  contain- 
nothing,  so  far  as  known.) 


TWENTY-FIRST  CONVENTION. 

1768. 
(November  6,  New  Hanover.  ) 


[Muhlenberg's  Diary,  1768-1769.    MS.  pp.  16, ff.] 

Memoranda:  In  September,  1768,  received  the  following: 
Honorable  President  and  Members  of  the  Ministerium  Reverendum  of  the 
United  Evangelical  Lutheran  Congregations  in  Pennsylvania,  etc. : 

The  building  of  a  new  church,  begun  by  the  congregation  at  New 
Hanover,  in  the  Name  and  in  reliance  upon  the  assistance  of  Him  who 
can  do  more  than  we  ask  and  understand,  has,  through  the  strength  of 
the  Omnipotent,  been  accompanied  with  such  desired  progress  that  we 
will  soon  see  its  completion.     Hallelujah! 

Our  earnest  wish  now  is,  in  the  day  of  His  victory,  to  sacrifice,  in 
the  beauties  of  holiness,  to  the  Prince  of  our  Salvation,  made  perfect 
through  suffering  and  death  [cf.  Ps.  110  :  3,  Heb.  2 :  10],  and  also 
through  the  power  of  God  to  have  our  souls  prepared  that  we,  when  we 
are  assured  of  the  promises,  and  glorified,  may  sing  the  new  song  of  Moses. 

For  the  accomplishing  of  so  exceedingly  important  a  purpose,  we 
extend  our  most  obedient  request  to  the  Reverend  Ministerium,  to  con- 
secrate our  newly  built  church  to  the  service  of  Immanuel  by  prayer, 
intercession  and  thanksgiving,  and  to  bring  into  it,  by  the  proclamation 
of  the  saving  doctrine  of  Jesus  Christ,  glowing  coal  to  enkindle  a  fire 
that  may  burn  with  fervor  and  blessed  devotion,  in  our  hearts,  as  well 
as  in  the  hearts  of  our  posterity. 

Our  unanimous  wish  is  that  this  be  done  on  the  XXIII  Sunday  after 
Trinity,  which  will  be  November  6,  of  the  present  year.  Not  only  the 
diligent  keeping  of  unity  of  the  spirit  in  the  bond  of  peace,  but  also  the 
celebration  of  so  solemn  an  act,  permits  us  to  hope  that  the  Reverend 
Ministerium  will  not  refuse  to  grant  our  request,  but  honor  us  the  more 
with  the  presence  of  some  members  of  its  respective  congregations, 
whom,  as  our  brethren  in  the  faith,  we  hereby  kindly  invite. 

"With  readiness  and  the  offering  of  all  possible  love  in  return,  we, 
who  sign  this,  remain,  Honorable  Prseses  and  members  of  the  Rev- 
erend Ministerium,  Your  most  obedient, 

Lewis  Voigt. 

New  Hanover,  September  10,  1768. 
86 


TWENTY-FIRST  CONVENTION,  1708.  87 

Michael  Weygel,  Adam  Wartman,  George  Burkard,  George 
Beck,  Adam  Kurtz,  Ludwig  Bickel,  Moses  Binder,  Val- 
entin Stigler,  Casimir  Misemer,  Jacob  Eppele,  Michael 
Schanecker,  Jun.,  Georg  Schweighard,  Jacob  Kop, 
Conrad  Gilbert,  Johannes  Schweighard. 

To  be  published  to  the  Reverend  Ministerium  of  the  United  Evan- 
gelical Lutheran  congregations  in  Pennsylvania. 

Honorable  Senior :  Besides  the  friendly  request  which  the  entire 
congregation  has  sent  to  the  Reverend  Ministerium,  I  venture  earnestly 
and  in  God's  Name,  to  request  the  consecration  of  the  new  church  at 
this  place  at  the  appointed  time.  Various  circumstances  render  it 
highly  necessary.  You  will  occasion  general  rejoicing  if  you  will  be 
pleased  to  make  known  to  the  honored  members  of  the  Ministerium, 
through  a  circular,  the  enclosed  memorial ;  as  also  to  send  to  the  con- 
gregation at  New  Hanover  a  speedy,  gracious  reply,  whether  their 
desires  shall  be  fulfilled  or  not.  If  you  please  to  honor  me,  and,  upon 
your  arrival,  which  is  right  longingly  awaited  by  all,  stop  in  the 
recently  purchased  parsonage,  it  will  be  an  exceptional  pleasure  to  me 
to  seek  to  entertain  you  as  far  as  my  poverty  permits. 

With  a  hearty  greeting  to  your  entire  family,  I  remain,  Honorable 
Senior,  your,  among  the  poor,  poorest  servant, 

Lewis  Voigt. 

New  IIaxover,  September  12,  1768. 

Upon  the  above  request,  I  sent  a  circular  to  the  most  accessible 
brethren  in  Pennsylvania,  with  the  following  motives  and  inducements  : 
a,  that  at  the  same  time  a  general  conference  be  held,  and,  b,  I  hoped 
that  if  the  new  laborers,  Messrs.  Helmuth  and  Schmidt,  would,  under 
God's  guidance,  arrive,  I  could  bring  them  along  and  introduce  them 
to  the  united  laborers. 

November  4.  Friday  morning  about  11  o'clock,  I  rode  out  of  Phila- 
delphia in  company  with  Mr.  Heinrich  Keppele,  Jun.,  Mr.  Zansinger 
and  the  candidate  recommended  by  Dr.  Wachsel,  Mr.  Jung ;  but 
because  of  the  shortness  of  the  days  we  could  get  no  further  than 
twenty  miles ;  namely,  seven  miles  this  side  of  Providence. 

November  5.  Saturday  we  started  early,  and,  with  God's  assistance, 
reached  New  Hanover  at  12  o'clock  noon,  found  P.  Voigt  well,  and 
conferring  with  the  deacons  in  the  parsonage.  Towards  evening,  the  be- 
loved brethren  Messrs.  Kurtz,  Senior  and  Junior,  Krug,  Schaum  and 
Stover  and  Van  Buskerk    also   arrived,  and  various   delegates    from 


88  DOCUMENTAKY  HISTOKY. 

supplied  and  vacant  congregations,  under  which  circumstances  I  pitied 
Brother  Voigt,  because  fi'om  my  own  experience,  I  felt  how  distressed 
one  is  when  there  are  so  many  friends  about  him,  and  he  wishes  to 
receive  them  all  and  singly,  entertain  them  pleasantly,  and  put  them  at 
their  ease.  In  the  evening  the  preachers  sat  down  together  to  prepare 
a  program  for  to-morroAV,  D.  V.,  for  the  external  arrangements  in  the 
consecration,  because  nothing  had  been  agreed  upon,  and  each  had 
depended  upou  the  other.  About  mid-night  we  finished  and  were  tired, 
and  lodged  in  the  parsonage,  after  we  had  cheered  ourselves  with  edify- 
ing conversation  and  prayer. 

Nov.  6.  The  Twenty-third  Sunday  after  Trinity,  in  the  forenoon 
towards  ten  o'clock,  the  weather  being  pleasant  for  the  time  of  year,  a 
great  mass  of  people  from  near  and  far  assembled  around  the  new 
church,  and  the  preachers  and  delegates  of  the  United  Congregations 
went  in  procession  from  the  parsonage  to  the  school-house,  a  distance  of 
about  two  stone-throws.  About  ten  o'clock  one  of  the  builders  and 
the  school-master  went  ahead  with  the  key  ;  they  were  followed  by  four 
deacons  with  the  sacred  vessels.  Then  came  the  preachers,  the  elders 
of  the  Hanover  and  Providence  congregations,  the  delegates  from  the 
congregations  in  Philadelphia,  Germantown,  Lancaster,  Reading,  Tul- 
pehocken,  Richmond,  Whitendhal,  Earltown,  Warwick,  Macunshy, 
Upper  Milford,  Saccum,  Jordan,  Heidelberg,  Peikstown,  etc. 

The  crowd  was  so  great  that  several  thousand  may  have  stood  in  the 
church,  and  half  as  many  around  it.  The  preachers  stepped  within 
the  railing  about  the  altar,  and  the  delegates  formed  a  semicircle  out- 
side of  the  altar. 

1.  Sen.  Mb.  [Muhlenberg]  opened  the  service  with  the  100th  Psalm. 

2.  The  preachers  and  the  choir  sang,  "  Komm  heiliger  Geist,  Herre 

Gott,  erjilll  mit,"  etc. 

3.  Sen.  M [uhlenberg]  gave  a  motto  for  the  entire  house,  Luke  10  :  5,  6. 

4.  Mr.  K[urtz],  S[enior]  .    .  for  the  Ministerial  Office 

5.  Mr.  St[oever] for  Holy  Baptism. 

6.  Mr.  K[urtz],  Jun for  the  Lord's  Supper. 

7.  Mr.  Sch[au]m for  Confession  and  Absolution. 

8.  Mr.  Kr[ug] for  Catechisation  (Kinderlehre). 

9.  Mr.  V[oigt] for  the  spread  and  growth  of  the  Gospel. 

10.  Mr.  J[ung] for  our  King  and  all  in  authority. 

11.  Mr.  B[uskerk] for  our  Honorable  Fathers,  Benefactors 

and  Friends  in  Europe. 

12.  Mr.  K[u]h[n]. 

13.  Mr.  Str[eit]. 


TWENTY-FIRST  CONVENTION,  1768.  89 

a.  After  the  giving  of  the  mottoes,  Pastor  V[oigt]  read  a  declara- 
tion, Mating  for  what  purpose  and  use  the  church  was  to  he  built  and 
dedicated. 

b.  Then  the  entire  assembly  sang:  " Sey  Lob  und  Ehr  dem  hbchsten 
Out." 

c.  Rev.  Mr.  Kr[ug]  baptized  children. 

il .  Sot.  Mr.  M[iihlenberg]  preached  the  consecration  sermon;  as  an 
introduction,  explaining  the  proper  use  of  consecration,  how  God  had 
approved  it  in  the  case  of  Solomon's  Temple  (I  Kings  9  :  3)  and  what 
Solomon,  among  others,  prayed  for,  and  how  he  was  heard.  Text, 
I  Kings  8:  37  to  39,  compared  with  II  Chron  7:12  to  14.  Theme: 
"  A  divinely-approved  means  to  rescue  and  save  from  destruction  a 
sinful  people  and  land." 

1.  The  causes  from  which  general  judgments  and  land-destroying 
])lagues  arise.     (Gemeine  Gerichte  u.  Land-verderbl.  Plagen). 

2.  The  approved  means  for  resetting  and  saving. 

Shortly  after  12  o'clock  the  sermon  was  ended.  And  as  among 
those  present  there  were  also  many  honored  English  people,  it  was 
approved  that  the  two  students,  Messrs.  Streit  and  Kuhn,  each  make  a 
brief  address  in  English.  Mr.  Streit  spoke  briefly,  edifyingly  and  con- 
cisely on  Exod.  20  :  24:  "  In  all  places  where  I  record  my  name  I  will 
come  unto  thee,  and  I  will  bless  thee,"  and  Mr.  Kuhn  forcibly  described 
the  origin  and  use  of  consecration,  and  both  pleased  the  English 
hearers. 

About  1  o'clock  in  the  afternoon  all  was  completed.  Rev.  Mr. 
V[oigt]  dismissed  the  assembly  with  the  benediction,  invited  the 
preachers  and  delegates  to  the  parsonage  for  a  mouthful  of  food, 
announced  that  in  the  afternoon,  after  2  o'clock,  there  would  again  be 
service,  and  to-morrow  morning  the  synodical  sermon  would  be  preached. 
As  the  people  were  going  out  the  deacons  lifted  a  collection  at  the 
church  doors,  amounting  to  nearly  £60. 

In  the  afternoon  preachers  and  delegates  again  went  to  church, 
sang,  "Sieh!  hier  bin  ich  Ehren  Kbnig"  etc  ,  and  Rev.  Mr.  K[urt]z, 
Senior,  preached  a  well-prepared,  edifying  and  concise  sermon  on  Matt. 
21 :  12,  13:  "And  Jesus  went  into  the  temple  of  God  ...  a  den  of 
thieves." 

In  the  evening  we  had  many  visitors  in  the  parsonage,  but  gained  a 
little  time  towards  midnight  for  a  private  conference  among  ourselves. 
considered  the  circumstances  of  the  congregations  and  prepared  resolu- 
tions in  order  that  we  might  not  detain  the  delegates  too  long  on  the 
following  day.  The  President  laid  before  his  brethren,  first  of  all,  all  the 
letters  concerning  congregational  matters,  which  he  had  received  since 


90  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

the  last  Synod,  and  bad  preserved  for  communication,  of  which  I  can 
give  only  a  few,  because  of  their  number  and  the  shortness  of  the  time. 
I.  In  a  district  situated  between  North  East  and  North  West  from 
Philadelphia  towards  the  Blue  Mountains,  Macunshy,  Saccona,  Heidel- 
berg, etc.,  are  several  vacant  congregations,  which,  after  the  death  of 
Rev.  Mr.  Schertlin,  were  torn  and  tormented  by  godless,  scandalously 
living  so-called  preachers.  Well-meaning  families  still  live  there, 
who  formerly  made  use  of  the  means  of  grace  in  our  old  congregations, 
and  would  like  to  see  things  in  good  condition,  and  among  others  a  well- 
meaning  Evangelical  Justice  of  the  Peace,  who  has  put  himself  to  much 
trouble  to  get  a  regular  pastor  there,  whose  letter  reads  thus : 

Macunshy,  November  4,  1768. 
To  the  Revd.  Henry  M . 

Beloved  Cousin  (Vetter) : — I  had  intended  to  come  to  the  meeting 
myself  in  order  to  plead  further  for  a  God-fearing  and  faithful  pastor, 
but  have  been  prevented  by  important  business.  The  deacons  from  the 
congregations  at  Macunshy,  Upper  Milford,  Upper  Saccona  and  Saltz- 
burg  were  all  with  me  yesterday  and  mutually  united  themselves  to 
petition  the  honorable  coetus  for  a  preacher,  wished  also  that  I  prepare 
a  call,  and  in  it  fix  £150  curr.,  without  funeral  and  wedding  perqui- 
sites, with  the  hope  that  the  salary  would  in  one  or  two  years  be 
increased  by  country  produce  and  other  necessaries.  But  as  I  am  a  poor 
writer  and  do  not  know  how  a  call  must  be  prepared,  I  thought  perhaps 
one  of  the  educated  might  do  it,  and  the  delegates  might  subscribe  it  at 
the  coetus.  But  the  mind  and  trust  of  the  above-mentioned  four  congrega- 
tions is  fixed  upon  Vetter  Muhlenberg,  or  on  Rev.  Mr.  Kurtz,  in  Tul- 
pehocken,  who  last  week  preached  for  us  with  spirit  and  power,  and 
caused  a  regular  revival  [Erweckung]  among  the  people,  so  that  I 
believe,  that,  if  it  were  God's  will,  that  we  get  Mr.  Kurtz  as  our  pas- 
tor, many  souls  would  yet  be  saved,  and  be  brought  to  our  faithful 
Redeemer,  Jesus  Christ,  as  a  bride,  in  return  for  his  sorrows  and  pains. 
I  therefore  earnestly  and  humbly  beg  my  cousin,  as  a  chief  laborer  in 
the  Lord's  vineyard,  that  he  assist  us  in  the  honorable  coetus,  to  see 
whether  it  is  possible  to  persuade  Rev.  Mr.  Kurtz  to  leave  Tulpehocken 
and  to  come  to  us.  The  Good  Shepherd  left  the  ninety-nine  sheep  which 
obeyed  his  voice,  in  the  desert,  and  went  after  the  lost  one  to  seek  it. 
Here  are  more  than  one,  yes,  more  than  two  or  three  hundred,  who 
have  no  shepherd  and  cry  for  help,  who  hunger  and  thirst  after  the  pure 
Word  of  God.  I  think,  a  true  servant  of  Jesus  could  not  well  refuse. 
Tulpehocken  could  be  supplied  with  another  faithful  preacher.  Rev. 
Mr.  Kurtz  would  be  necessary  at  this  time  in  our  district,  because  of 


TWENTY-FIRST  CONVENTION,  1768.  91 

the  many  sects  a  ml  separatists,  and  because  of  the  godless  vagabonds 

{Land- La iifer),  who  represent  themselves  as  preachers*  He  has  now 
preached  to  the  Tulpehocken  people  a  long  time  and  brought  them  into 
good  Christian  order ;  it  is  highly  necessary  that  fortune  fall  to  us  also. 
With  the  salary  he  shall  certainly  be  satisfied:  we  will  give  what  Tul- 
pehocken also  gives.  My  dear  cousin,  a  new  or  young  man  will  not  help 
us,  we  greatly  need  an  old  experienced  minister  for  ourselves  and  our 
children,  else  our  good  Christian  religion  will  be  entirely  ruined  in  our 
region.  I  therefore  beg  my  dear  cousin  for  God's  sake  to  help  us  and 
to  be  our  intercessor  with  God  and  the  honorable  coetus,  that  we 
may  this  time  receive  a  faithful  and  experienced  minister.  What  I 
promised  in  my  former  writing,  I  will  faithfully  fulfill.  The  dear  mer- 
ciful Friend  of  men,  Jesus  Christ,  will  richly  reward  my  cousin,  and  the 
teacher  and  pastor  who  will  care  for  us,  here  in  time  and  yet  more  in 
eternity.  I  greet  my  much  beloved  cousin,  as  also  Rev.  Mr.  Kurtz, 
especially  my  cousin,  Peter  Muhlenberg,  most  heartily,  and  remain  your 
sincere  friend. 

P.  S. — Further  arrangements  conceiming  the  dwelling  of  a  pastor 
among  us,  the  delegated  elders  and  deacons  of  the  four  congregations 
I  will  make  orally  with  my  cousin. 

After  this  letter  and  the  oral  petition  of  the  delegates  was  considered, 
Mr.  Kurtz,  Sr.,  was  earnestly  asked,  whether  he  could  and  would  accept 
a  call  to  that  place,  with  the  addition  that  perhaps  one  of  the  two 
expected  new  laborers  would  suit  for  his  congregation  in  Tulpehocken. 
He,  however,  entirely  refused  for  good  reasons,  and  showed  how  in  his 
circumstances  it  was  impossible,  etc.  No  other  decision  could  be  given, 
but  that  we  visit  the  congregation  now  and  then  alternately,  and  see 
how  God  the  Lord  will  show  the  way  for  their  salvation. 

II.  We  deliberated  as  to  what  answer  could  bo  sent  through  their 
delegates  to  the  four  or  five  small  congregations  beyond  Lancaster. 
Since  the  candidate  recommended  to  this  Ministerium  by  Dr.  Wachsel 
is  present  and  without  a  call,  the  two  preachers  who  live  n<  arest 
were  asked,  whether  one  or  the  other  would  take  him  into  his 
house,  and  under  supervision  let  him  serve  the  congn  gations  from  his 
house,  since  it  is  advisable  neither  for  the  congregations  nor  for  a  young 
beginner  to  act  alone  without  supervision.  They  both,  however,  re- 
sponded, that  they  had  enough  to  do  with  their  own  families,  and  could 
undertake  no  more,  etc.  No  wonder  that  at  the  time  of  the  Interim  [15  18] 
some  of  the  faint-hearted  pastor's  wives  said  :  "  Man,  wiite  !  write  !  that 
you  mav  stav  in  the  parsonage!  "  (Mann,  schreiht !  schreibtl  dass  Ihr 
bey  der  Pfarre  bleibt !)    In  Philadelphia  it  is  done  more  easily,  because 


92  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

there  wood,  bread,  milk  and  water  must  be  bought  for  money,  and  in 
the  country  can  be  had  for  nothing.  Finally  it  was  resolved,  that  Rev. 
Mr.  St[oever]  who  lives  nearest  should  first  visit  the  congregatious  and 
investigate  whether  they  could  and  would  raise  a  sufficient  salary.  Then 
if  it  be  sufficient  the  candidate  might  live  with  him,  and  serve  the  con- 
gregation from  there.  This  motion  did  not  appear  unjust,  since  the 
people  always  cry  and  lament  for  preachers,  but  soon  forget  that  they 
also  require  food,  clothing  and  horses  to  travel  with.  It  often  happens 
here  as  the  proverb  says  :  "  One  father  can  easily  support  ten  children,  but 
ten  children  scarcely  one  father."  If  preachers  have  the  mind  of  Christ 
and  the  gifts  of  Paul,  they  get  along  well  in  this  ecclesia  colligenda ;  but 
if  that  is  wanting,  they  must  help  themselves  with  all  kinds  of  maxims 
per  fas  et  nefas,  and  sing  his  song,  whose  bread  they  wish  to  eat. 

III.  Five  or  six  letters  from  small  congregations,  some  on  the  frontier 
of  Pennsylvania,  some  in  Maryland,  were  considered,  in  which  they 
request  that  the  Ministerium  receive  into  their  union  their  catechist 
[Wildbahn]  and  the  congregations,  and  ordain  him.  The  said 
catechist  came  to  America  about  thirteen  years  ago  with  the  soldiers 
(Kriegsvolke),  says  he  was  born  in  Saxony,  writes  a  neat  hand,  can 
sing  excellently,  since  he  was  perhaps  a  chorister,  understands  some 
Latin,  can  read  Greek,  has  a  special  gift  in  catechisation,  and  is  extraor- 
dinarily eloquent ;  freed  himself  from  the  military  order,  because,  as  he 
said,  he  was  ruptured,  worked  for  a  while  in  the  printing  office  at  Phila- 
delphia in  the  times  of  the  late  Rev.  Handschuh,  with  whom  he  became 
intimate  as  a  fellow-countryman,  and  went  beyond  the  Susquehanna, 
with  the  English  and  German  Charity  School,  which  was  founded  at 
that  time.  After  the  free  schools  stopped,  he  went  farther  inland,  taught 
German  school,  read  sermons  on  Sunday,  and  catechised  the  youth, 
was  called  still  further  to  a  district  of  Virginia  to  German  inhabitants 
in  the  town  of  Winchester,  where  he  preached  on  Sunday,  also  in  cases 
of  necessity  baptized  children,  because  for  a  long  distance  about  there 
they  had  no  ordained  German  preacher,  and  did  not  wish  to  join  the 
English  Church ;  although  they  must,  according  to  the  laws  of  that 
country,  annually  pay  their  tribute  to  the  English  preacher  of  the 
Established  Church.  When  in  the  year  1762  a  Synodical  Meeting 
was  held  in  Philadelphia,  and  the  members  of  the  Rev.  Ministerium,  as 
well  as  the  delegates  of  the  United  Congregations,  were  already  sepa- 
rated and  on  their  journey  home,  the  said  catechist,  W ,  arrived 

with  two  delegates  from  Virginia,  and  they  brought  petitions  from  their 
congregations,  and  a'so  a  recommendation  from  the  English  magistrate, 
in  which  the  said  catechist  was  highly  commended  as  to  doctrine,  life 
and  conversation,  and  the  Ministerium  most  urgently  petitioned  to 


TWENTY-FIRST  CONVENTION,  1768.  93 

examine  and  ordain  him.  Since  then  my  brethren  had  placed  the  office 
of  President  on  me,  and  I  had  to  act  in  accordance  with  my  office ;  I 
named  as  a  committee  as  many  of  the  Rev.  Ministerium  as  were  present, 
namely, — Dr.  Wrangel,  Rev.  Mr.  Ilandschuh  and  Rev.  Mr.  Hartwig, 
and  having  laid  the  documents  before  them,  asked  their  opinion.  Said 
brethren  duly  considered  the  matter,  examined  the  catechist  and  gave 
their  opinion  in  writing,  to  wit,  that  he  passed  his  examination  satisfac- 
torily, and  that  I  as  President  might  give  him  authority  to  perform  minis- 
terial acts  in  the  said  congregations,  iisque  ad  idtioremjirobattonem.  I  gave 
him  a  written  certificate  in  English,  according  to  the  directions  received, 
and  dismissed  him  and  the  delegates  with  hearty  admonitions.  Since 
these  new  congregations  were  received  into  our  fellowship,  our  congre- 
gations, which  are  themselves  still  poor,  had  this  gain,  that  they  must 
contribute  to  the  building  of  these  churches.  But  scarcely  a  year  elapsed 
until  the  savages  attacked  the  districts  about  Winchester,  murdering 
and  burning,  and  the  said  catechist  left  the  district,  and  moved  with  his 
small  family  to  the  border  of  Pennsylvania,  to  Conewago,  there  accepted 
congregations,  and  preached  and  catechised  in  them.  When  a  Synodical 
Convention  was  again  held  in  Philadelphia,  there  came  a  delegate  and 
brought  letters  from  the  congregations,  in  which  they  asked  whether 
their  preacher  might  also  administer  the  sacraments  to  them?  Since 
just  at  that  time  the  unfortunate  Swedish  preacher  H[ornell]  was  called 
and  sent  to  Yorktown,  beyond  the  Susquehanna,  the  Ministerium 
resolved  that  the  catechist  bo  under  the  supervision  of  the  preacher  in 
Yorktown,  and  might,  in  cases  of  necessity,  baptize  children,  preach  and 
catechise.  The  communion,  however,  was  to  be  administered  at  stated 
times  by  the  ordained  preacher  from  Yorktown.  But,  alas  !  it  was  not 
long  before  the  verdict  concerning  the  Swedish-German  preacher  was 
reported  by  the  Honorable  Consistorium  in  Sweden,  and  he  was 
excluded  from  our  Ministerium,  and  the  catechist  again  was  left  alone. 
Then,  from  year  to  year,  there  came  from  one  congregation  two  kinds 
of  petitions  to  the  President.  Some  elders  and  deacons,  and  also  members 
of  the  congregations  longingly  asked  for  the  further  examination  and 
ordination  of  the  catechist;  others  asked  that  it  be  not  granted.  The 
catechist  also,  in  his  letters,  asked  that  the  Rev.  Ministerium  should 
only  demand  it,  and  he  would  defend  himself  against  accusers.  But  it 
was  not  expedient,  because  we  do  not  like  to  put  ourselves  between 
parties.  The  complainants  brought  many  things  against  him,  mostly 
a  ne  rning  his  former  life;  now  he  was  said  to  have  said  that  he  had 
stabbed  a  man,  now  to  have  spoken  disparagingly  of  religion,  etc., 
and  when  his  friends  asked  people  who  were  said  to  have  said  it,  they 
would  not  confess  it,  etc.     Since  the  congregations  of  the  catechist  had 


94  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

no  ordained  preacher  of  the  Ministerium  nearer  than  in  Lancaster,  and 
to  bring  him  so  far  to  administer  Communion  would  cause  much  trouble, 
difficulty  and  expense  on  the  part  of  the  minister  and  of  the  congrega- 
tions, and  they  had  several  preachers  in  their  neighborhood,  e.  cj  ,  Messrs. 
Rauss,  Kirchner,  etc.,  who  were  not  united  with  the  Ministerium,  and 
yet  administered  the  sacraments,  and  the  Swedish-German  Ordinarius 
in  Yorktown  made  such  a  poor  impression,  it  followed  quite  naturally 
that  the  friends  of  the  catechist  were  tempted  to  consider  whether  it 
were  better  for  them  to  stand  by  themselves,  without  union  with  the 
Ministerium  or  under  its  care  ?  Since  other  congregations  near  them 
had  preachers  and  the  liberty  to  practice  and  enjoy  ministerial  acts 
without  asking  the  Ministerium,  why  might  not  they  also,  especially 
since  their  catechist  led  an  honorable  sober  life  and  had  ability  to  cate- 
chise their  children,  and  to  preach  to  edification  as  well  as,  if  not  better, 
than  some  in  and  out  of  the  United  Ministerium,  etc  ?  How  soon 
under  such  circumstances  a  miniature  Sheba  is  found  who  blows  the 
trumpet,  II.  Sam.  20  :  1,  2 !  The  catechist  W[ildbahn],  however,  always 
cherished  an  inclination  to  belong  to  the  United  Ministerium,  and  pre- 
ferred to  conduct  his  office  in  due  order,  if  only  there  had  been  a  regular, 
exemplary  member  of  the  Ministerium  in  Yorktown.  The  congregation 
in  Yorktown  put  itself  to  enough  trouble  to  get  Rev.  Mr.  Kurtz,  Sr., 
but  could  not  succeed.  Finally  it  called  Rev.  Mr.  Bager  back  from 
New  York,  who  formerly  served  the  congregations  of  the  catechist  in 
Conewago,  where  he  also  still  owns  a  piece  of  ground.  Rev.  Mr.  Bager 
was  formerly  a  good  friend  and  well-wisher  of  the  catechist,  but  when 
he  came  to  be  stationed  in  Yorktown,  and  also  cherished  an  old  love 
for  his  congregation  in  Conewago,  where  his  farm  is,  suspicions  against 
the  catechist  continually  grew,  because  of  the  latter's  non-ordination. 
Pastor  Bager,  therefoi*e,  took  those  main  congregations  into  his  charge 
as  filials  of  Yorktown,  until  he  finally  moved  with  his  family  from 
Yorktown  to  his  home,  and  from  there  served  his  Yorktown  congrega- 
tion as  a  filial,  and  so  there  remained  to  the  catechist  several  small 
congregations  in  the  neighborhood,  until  gradually  one,  two,  three,  four, 
five  forsaken  congregations  farther  up,  toward  the  borders  of  Pennsyl- 
vania and  in  Maryland,  asked  for  his  services.  These  congregations  he 
has  for  a  time  already  served  from  his  residence.  The  said  congrega- 
tions, viz.:  a.  Codorus;  b.  Pipe  Creek;  c.  Thomas  Creek;  d.  Sharps- 
burg  ;  and  e.  Conecocheaguc,  have  therefore  applied  to  the  President  by 
petitions  signed  by  their  names,  requesting  that  their  preacher  be 
ordained  and  received  into  the  union.  The  undersigned  ascribed  to  the 
catechist  a  good  character,  sound  doctrine,  Christian  conversation 
and  unwearied  zeal  in  his  duties,  etc. 


TWENTY-FIRST  CONVENTION,  17G8.  95 

After  the  letters  were  read,  the  question  was  what  advice  to  give? 
a.  Contra  :  1.  The  congregations  are  very  distant ;  the  preacher  may  go 
astray  in  doctrine  and  life,  and  this  afterwards  be  a  burden  upon  and 
he  laid  to  the  charge  of  the  Ministerium. 

2.  He  can  show  no  testimonials  from  Germany ;  and  of  his  former 
life  as  a  soldier  many  stories  are  known ;  as  also  some  indiscretions 
since  lie  has  been  in  his  present  office. 

3.  Lay  hands  suddenly  on  no  man.     I  Tim.  5  :  22. 

4.  People  can  write  the  best  of  testimonials  one  year  and  sign  their 
names,  and  do  the  opposite  at  some  futiu-e  time,  etc. 

b.  Pro:  1.  a  posse  ad  esse  non  valet  consequentia.  The  near  congrega- 
tions and  teachers  may  also  go  astray,  if  they  are  not  watchful,  and  the 
enemy  sows  weeds  among  the  good  seed,  etc.;  to  whose  charge  will  this 
be  laid  ? 

2.  Ho  has  long  since  offered,  if  the  Ministerium  desired  it,  to  have 
investigations  made  concerning  his  antecedents  and  conduct  in  Saxony. 
And  what  can  testimonials  really  accomplish?     Ezek.  18:  21-25. 

3.  Hands  have  not  yet  been  laid  upon  him,  and  we  have  had  plenty  of 
time  to  become  accpiainted  with  him.  .That  as  a  matter  of  necessity  and 
at  the  urgent  recmest  of  some  congregations  which  were  in  great  need,  after 
due  examination,  a  certificate  was  given  him  usque  ad  ultiorem  proba- 
tionem,  cannot  be  regarded  a  too  sudden  laying  on  of  hands,  but  must  be 
maturely  judged  in  view  of  all  the  circumstances.  A  judge  cannot  well 
give  a  judgment,  if  he  have  not  investigated  the  conduct  of  both  par- 
ties, minima  circumstantia  interdum  variat  rem,  et  si  duo  mala  concur- 
r n ni  minus  cligendum  esseputo.  [The  smallest  circumstance  sometimes 
alters  the  case ;  and  if  we  be  confronted  by  two  evils,  the  smaller,  I 
think,  should  be  chosen.] 

4.  People  not  only  in  this  American  environment,  but  also  in  all 
other  parts  of  the  world  are  variable.  The  poor  German  Lutherans 
scattered  in  the  American  wilderness  wish  in  part  to  retain  and  propa- 
gate their  Evangelical  religion.  The  few  who  still  have  some  life  and 
feeling  cry  for  help.  If  we  cannot  help  them  in  accordance  with  our 
regular  order,  we  are  yet  in  duty  bound  for  the  love  of  Christ  and  of  our 
neighbor  to  imitate  the  Samaritan,  Luke  10,  without  scholastic  distinc- 
tions of  Priests  and  Levitcs ;  if  we  do  not,  with  whom  does  the  responsi- 
bility rest  ?  Shall  one  wait  until  the  cow  is  dead,  and  then  repair  the  -ta- 
ble ?  Whoever  can,  let  him  provide  regu'ar  Christian  pasture,  furnished 
with  testimonials,  and  good  as  their  testimonials,  send  them  thither  and 
let  them  seek,  gather  and  feed  the  lambs  and  sheep  which  are  lost  in  the 

I  :     But  if  there  be  a  great  scarcity  of  such  servants  in  all  parts  of 
the  world,  let  us  not  bind  the  hands  and  feet  of  the  poor  struggling  souls 


96  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

to  hasten  their  destruction,  but  extend  to  them  assistance  as  best 
we  can,  so  that  they  can  take  hold  of  something.  John  thought  he  had 
done  something  wonderful,  Mark  9,  Luke  9,  Matth.  18,  when  he  says : 
"  Master,  we  saw  one  casting  out  devils  in  Thy  name,  and  we  forbade  him, 
because  he  followeth  not  us."  V.  39  [Mark  9.]  "Jesus  said,  Forbid 
him  not,  etc.  Collat.  Matth.  18  :  1  seqq.  "  Verily,  verily,  whoso  shall 
offend  one  of  these  little  ones,"  etc. 

5.  If  such  remote  congregations  and  their  comparatively  able  and  will- 
ing laborers  live  in  friendship  and  so-called  union  with  us,  we  at  least  have 
opportunity  to  hear  from  them,  and  occasionally  to  see  their  laborers 
with  their  delegates.  We  endeavor  to  exhort  and  encourage  them,  and 
to  give  them  counsel  in  cases  of  conscience,  and  gratify  them  now  and  then 
with  an  edifying  book  or  letter.  If  we  reject  them  entirely,  and  refuse  their 
petition,  they  will  live  on  by  themselves,  make  use  of  jus  episcopate  and 
patronatus,  call  themselves  Lutherans  none  the  less,  slander  our  religion  so 
much  more  boldly  before  other  brethren  in  the  faith,  or  even  fall  into 
heathendom  or  utter  unbelief,  and  thus  bring  all  the  more  reproach  upon 
what  is  yet  called  Evangelical. 

6.  After  much  further  discussion  it  was  finally  voted  and  resolved, 
that  the  President  again  continue  the  certificate,  and  limit  it  to  those 
congregations  which  had  so  earnestly  and  unanimously  requested  it. 

IV.  A  letter  from  Liineberg  in  Nova  Scotia,  signed  by  several 
Germans,  was  read — as  follows  : 

Noble,  Learned  and  Honorable  Sir,  Inspector  and  Pastor  : 

We  beg  your  honor  not  to  be  offended  that  we  all  make  known  to 
you  our  heart-felt  desire,  since  we  know  no  help  or  counsel  anywhere, 
except  first  with  God,  and  with  you  as  the  steward  of  God.  There  can 
be  no  greater  ruin  than  here  in  our  Evangelical  Lutheran  congrega- 
tion, seeing  that  we  have  been  in  this  formerly  barren  land  a  long  time, 
fifteen  to  sixteen  }Tears  already,  strange  both  in  language,  and  in  customs 
and  laws ;  Ave,  therefore,  again  pray  you  that  you  show  a  true  pastoral 
interest  in  us  and  inform  us  whether  an  Evangelical  Lutheran 
preacher  cannot  be  found  in  your  country  who  may  suit  this  place,  and, 
with  all  faithfulness,  may  tend  us,  because  we  have  found  that  the 
word  of  the  Lord  has  been  fulfilled  in  us,  which  He  speaks  through  His 
Prophet:  "  I  will  send  a  famine  in  the  land,  not  a  famine  of  bread,  nor 
a  thirst  for  water,  but  of  the  hearing  of  the  words  of  the  Lord  "  [Amos 
8  :  11],  which  grievously  pains  us,  when  we  remember  our  home  and 
Fatherland,  so  that  we  must  indeed  feel  what  it  is  to  forsake  the  Lord 
our  God !  Our  youth  are  already,  in  part,  of  the  second  generation, 
and  none  are  confirmed.     They  grow  like  wild  grapes ;  wre,  therefore, 


TWENTY-FIRST  CONVENTION,  1768.  97 

again  pray  you  that  you  may  take  to  heart  this  sorrowful  condition 
for  the  sake  of  our  faithful  Shepherd,  Jesus  Christ,  to  Whom  we  also 
pray  for  this,  in  the  hope  that  as  He  has  never  yet  left  any  of  His  sheep 
to  perish,  He  will  not  begin  with  us.  We  also  live  in  hope  that 
you  will  not  despise  our  sighs  and  petition,  and  let  us  know  how  and  in 
what  way  we  may  obtain  our  desire.  And,  although  our  Evangelical 
congregations  numher  nearly  one  hundred  and  fifty  or  more  families,  it 
is  yet  impossible  to  tell  you  of  the  great  destitution.  But  how  shall 
they  believe  on  Him  of  whom  they  do  not  know  ?  And  how  shall  they 
know  if  it  be  not  preached  unto  them?  We  commend  your  heart  to 
Him,  the  God  unknown  to  most  men,  that  He  may  rule  it  to  His  honor 
and  for  the  best  of  our  and  His  congregations,  but  still  remain  your 
most  obedient  congregations,  entrusted  to  you  from  afar. 
Li'xiauuo,  in  the  Province  Nova  Scotia,  June  27,  17G8. 

Wre  added  what  we  had  learned  concerning  Liineburg  through  other 
written  and  oral  reports,  viz. : 

1.  The  German  colony  at  that  place  consists  of  families  of  Evan- 
gelical and  Reformed  extraction.  The  people  have  been  of  some 
expense  to  the  government  on  account  of  passage  and  cultivation  of  the 
land,  and  do  not  enjoy  as  great  religious  freedom  as  in  Pennsylvania. 
The  Germans  have  for  many  years  longed  for  a  German  preacher,  and 
now  and  then  have  accepted  some  lost  Levite  and  let  him  preach,  of  whom, 
however,  they  had  afterwards  to  be  ashamed,  because  of  his  scandalous 
life.  The  worthy  Society  in  England,  De  projxtrjanda  fide,  has  ex- 
pended sufficient  care,  zeal  and  money,  and  supported  English  Episcopal 
missionaries  there,  several  of  whom  tried  hard  to  learn  High  German, 
and  succeeded  so  far  that  they  could  read  the  acts  of  baptism  and  mar- 
riage ;  English  schools  are  also  kept  to  perfect  the  German  youth  in 
English.  But  the  Germans  could  never  be  entirely  satisfied,  begged  our 
Ministerium  for  a  preacher,  and  also  applied  to  some  Ministeriums  and 
individual  theologians  of  our  mother  church  in  Europe.  But  no  results 
followed.  Finally,  their  desire  for  a  German  pastor  also  reached  the 
honorable  Prelates,  His  Eminence,  the  Archbishop  of  Canterbury,  and 
the  Bishop  of  London,  which  Highly  Respected  Sirs,  with  special  gracious 
condescension  wrote  to  the  Rev.  Commissarius  of  the  Episcopal  Church 
in  Philadelphia,  and  requested  that  he  call  a  Lutheran  candidate  or 
preacher  of  our  United  Ministerium  who  understood  English  ami 
(  i ei man,  and  send  him  to  London  for  ordination.  When  the  matter 
became  known,  several  of  the  orthodox  preachers  who  had  not  studied 
in  Halle,  but  at  unsuspected  places,  offered  themselves  to  the  Commis- 
sarius but  obtained  no  audience.  Afterwards  it  came  to  be  the  turn 
7 


9S  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

of  an  aged  Swedish-German  [Bryzelius],  who  also  for  many  years 
preached  English  and  German,  had  a  large  family  of  children,  little  to 
live  upon,  and  the  desire  to  see  the  cause  of  Christ  advanced.  He 
brought  to  the  Commissarius  various  respectable  recommendations  from 
eminent  English  magistrates  in  places  where  he  had  been  stationed,  was 
also  examined  by  him,  had  to  preach  in  English  before  him,  and  travel 
to  England  with  recommendations.  In  the  Spring  of  1767,  he  again 
returned  in  safety,  traveled  first  to  his  station  in  Liineburg,  was  re- 
ceived with  great  joy  because  he  preached  German,  celebrated  the  Holy 
Communion  about  Pentecost  according  to  the  Liturgy  used  in  the  Ger- 
man Lutheran  Court  Chapel  at  St.  James's,  came  from  there  here  for 
his  family,  and  spent  the  summer  partly  in  Jersey,  partly  in  Phila- 
delphia, preaching  several  times  for  the  Commissarius,  and  pleasing 
him  very  much.  Shortly  before  winter,  he  took  passage  with  his 
entire  family,  was  almost  sunk  in  a  storm,  but  was  saved.  He 
safely  arrived  among  his  congregation,  and  made  it  his  first  work  to 
instruct  the  young  people,  and  prepare  them  for  confirmation ;  since 
the  Honorable  Prelates,  as  he  said,  had  sub  rosa  permitted  him  to  use 
the  Liturgy  of  the  German  Court  Chapel,  and  also  to  confirm.  But  it  is 
said,  according  to  oral  reports,  that  when  he  assumed  his  office  he  in- 
troduced the  Liturgy  of  the  Established  Church  in  a  German  translation, 
and  read  it  several  times,  according  to  the  Order  of  the  Morning  and 
Evening  Service,  "Unser  Voter"  while,  on  the  contrary,  in  the  Liturgy 
of  the  Court  Chapel  the  words  are  always  "  Voter  Unser."  Because,  at 
his  first  visit,  he  prayed  "  Voter  Unser,"  and  the  service  was  read  more 
quickly,  every  thing  was  quiet  and  the  people  were  satisfied.  But  when 
he  afterwards  prayed  "  Unser  Voter  "  and  the  service  lasted  so  as  to  be 
tedious,  some  half-educated  persons  of  both  parties  put  their  heads  toge- 
ther, criticised  him,  and  concluded  he  was  neither  a  genuine  Lutheran 
nor  a  genuine  Reformed  preacher.  He  might  indeed  have  been  inde- 
pendent, with  respect  to  their  criticisms  on  both  sides,  since  he  had  a 
large  fixed  salary,  and  the  Government  on  his  side,  which  had  given 
each  of  his  children  one  thousand  acres  of  good  land  as  a  possession, 
and  he  was  not  dependent  upon  the  gifts  of  his  members.  But 
what  if  one  have  not  an  open  door  to  the  hearts  of  men  ?  Caiaphas 
thought  it  were  better  that  one  man  perish  and  only  the  people 
be  saved.  I  Corinth.  9 :  19-23  is  noteworthy.  The  men  who  sent 
the  above  letter,  and  some  more  of  the  German  Lutherans,  as  also 
Reformed,  have,  as  we  hear,  separated  themselves  from  the  Estab- 
lished Church  and  hold  their  service,  with  singing,  prayer  and  reading, 
in  a  large  house.  There  was  formerly  only  one  church  which  English, 
French  and  Germans  attended.     But  now  there  is  already  a  Prcsby- 


TWENTY-FIRST  CONVENTION,  17G8.  99 

terian  congregation  and  preacher,  and  the  Germans  will  hardly  rest 
until  they  also  have  orthodox  Lutheran  and  Reformed  preachers, 
especially  if  the  former  get  some  property,  so  that  they  can  support 
pastors.  For  the  Act  of  Tolerance  gives  the  Dissenters  equal  liherty. 
What  then  can  this  Ministerium  advise  or  help?  The  English 
Church  is  to  be  pitied.  It  has  means  and  materials  for  the  building  of 
the  Kingdom  of  God,  but  is  without  faithful  laborers!  which  is  the 
complaint  everywhere. 

V.  Concerning  the  Evangelical  congregation  at  Frederick  town,  in 
Maryland,  a  written  communication  was  also  submitted,  to  wit,  because 
Rev.  Mr.  Schwertfeger,  who  for  some  years  was  stationed  there  as  preacher, 
had,  on  account  of  various  troubles,  preached  his  farewell  sermon,  and 
undertaken  a  journey  to  Germany,  and  therefore  there  is  a  vacancy ; 
they  desired  Rev.  Mr.  Kurtz,  Sr.,  or  some  other  suitable  man,  for  their 
pastor.  But  as  there  are  no  gifted  preachers  on  hand  suited  to  the 
circumstances,  no  counsel  or  decision  could  be  given  ;  and  as  a  separate 
letter  was  written  from  there  to  Rev.  Mr.  Kurtz,  Sr.,  it  was  left  to  him 
to  answer  it  as  he  thought  best. 

VI.  A  proof  of  a  proposed  Church  Order  for  St.  George's  Church,  in 
London,  prepared  by  the  Reverend  Consistorium  of  the  said  church 
and  congregation  and  sent  over  by  Dr.  Wachsel,  was  communicated  to 
the  respective  members  of  the  Rev.  Ministerium.  They  all  testified 
that  it  was  a  thorough  and  well  condensed  document,  and  heartily 
wished  that  the  entire  Mother  Church  in  Europe,  and  all  its  parts  might 
dwell  together  in  love,  unity  and  harmony,  so  that  the  precious  oint- 
ment of  our  One  High  Priest  might  freely  run  down  from  the  Head 
upon  all  members,  yea,  even  upon  the  lowest  seams  of  the  garments, 
and  be  a  sweet  savor  before  God,  angels  and  mcu!  Ps.  133.  If  the 
dear  Mother  in  Europe  set  a  good  example,  the  obedient  filial^  or 
daughters  at  the  extreme  ends  of  the  earth  are  bound  and  also  willing 
to  imitate  the  good  or  better  fashion  of  their  Mother. 

YII.  A  written  and  oral  request  from  Rev.  Mr.  Weygand,  of  New  York, 
for  an  assistant,  came  up  for  discussion.  Mr.  Weygand  complains  that 
he  has  febrim  tentam,  can  no  longer  preach,  and  would  like  to  have  the 
two  students  born  in  this  country,  and  instructed  in  liberal  studies,  and 
graduated,  who  had  had  some  instruction  in  theology  from  Dr.  Wrangel, 
as  his  assistants.  His  congregation  is  small,  only  because  some  of  his 
members  have  gone  over  to  the  other  German  Lutheran  church,  where 
Rev.  Mr.  Gerock  is  now  stationed,  and  although  his  salary  has  been  col- 
lected up  to  the  present  with  extreme  difficulty,  it  hardly  suffices  to  support 
himself  and  his  beloved  family,  not  to  say  anything  of  giving  anything  to 
an  assistant.     But  the  congregation  is  willing  to  provide  board    for  an 


100  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

assistant.  Therefore  he  wished  to  take  Esq.  Kuhn's  son,  because  the  father 
can  assist  and  give  the  son  clothing,  etc.  The  son  should  then  help  to 
preach  and  catechise  in  German  and  English.  Since  the  father  was 
present  as  delegate  from  Lancaster,  and  the  matter  was  discussed,  he 
approved  the  proposition,  in  the  hope  that  his  son  might  receive  further 
instruction  in  theoretical  and  practical  theology  from  Rev.  Mr.  Weygand, 
if  he  would  not  succumb  to  the  hectic  fever. 

VIII.  A  letter  sent  from  Reading  signed  by  eight  persons  was  read,  in 
which  they  ask  whether  an  exchange  could  not  be  effected  between  Rev. 
Mr.  Krug  and  a  near  relative  of  the  President  (i.  e.,  Rev.  Mr.  Schultz)  ? 
The  said  eight  persons  had  sent  a  delegate  at  their  own  expense,  who 
would  report  all  the  details  orally.  The  Church  Council  of  the  said  United 
Congregation  in  Reading,  with  its  means,  also  had  sent  two  delegates. 
The  latter  had  no  complaint  to  make,  but  testified  that  Rev.  Mr.  Krug 
performed  his  duty  towards  the  aged  and  children  properly  and  faith- 
fully according  to  the  grace  and  gifts  granted  him  and  that  they 
thank  God  for  his  grace.  And  when  the  other  delegate  desired  an 
answer  to  the  said  letter  and  his  oral  question,  the  President  replied  as 
follows:  "If  the  Church  Council  and  all  the  members  desired  the 
change,  it  would  be  made,  namely,  because  there  are  sufficient  vacant 
congregations,  and  the  laborers  are  so  few ;  Mr.  Krug  might  be  taken 
from  them,  and  they  might  seek  and  burden  themselves  with  teachers  of 
the  kind  for  which  their  ears  itched,"  etc. 

IX.  The  President  communicated  two  letters  from  United  Congrega- 
tions in  Virginia ;  a,  from  the  catechist  ordained  there,  b,  from  the 
deacons,  of  which  the  following  is  the  substance  : 

a.  As  last  year,  I  took  the  liberty  to  send  to  you  the  report  of  one 
part  of  my  work  and  now  again  have  the  opportunity  to  inform  myself 
as  to  your  welfare  I  would  have  come  to  Pennsylvania  myself,  but 
was  prevented  by  the  accumulation  of  work,  as  well  as  by  my  ignorance 
of  when  the  Rev.  Consistorium  would  meet — If  in  your  reply  I  might 
learn  for  what  time  a  synodical  meeting  is  appointed  next  year,  I  would, 
D.  V.,  pay  my  respects  to  you,  and  be  advised  concerning  various  mat- 
ters. I  am  overburdened  with  work,  but  under  God's  assistance  I  let 
nothing  discourage  me.  In  six  months  I  have  instructed  and  confirmed 
young  people  in  seven  different  congregations  at  considerable  distance 
from  each  other.  From  this  you  can  conclude  as  to  the  rest.  I  hope  that 
the  all-ruling  God  may  for  Christ's  sake  shed  His  gracious  blessing 
upon  my  labors!  Hearty  remembrance  to  the  Honorable  Consis- 
torium, especially  to  Dr.  Wrangel  and  Rev.  Mr.  Schultz. 
I  remain  your  obedient  servant, 

Johannes  Schwarbach. 

Culpepper,  September  2,  1768. 


TWENTY-FIRST  CONVENTION,  1768.  101 

• 
b.  The  efforts  of  Mr.  Schwarbach,  being  not  without  fruit,  please  us 
very  much,  and  we  again  thank  the  Honorable  Consistorium  for 
sending  this  active  man  to  us.  But  our  means  prevent  us  from 
providing  a  proper  salary  for  him,  since  we  must  also  contribute 
to  the  support  of  the  English  county  pnachcr,  who,  however,  is  of  no 
benefit  to  us.  The  English  preacher  officiate  s  at  marriages,  but  our  Mr. 
Schwarbach  dare  not.  Some  years  ago  a  considerable  sum  was  given 
by  benevolent,  persons  in  Europe,  in  collections  for  the  benefit  of  the 
church  and  schools  in  this  place,  and  the  church  which  still  stands  was 
built.  But  since  this  is  almost  too  small,  and  already  dilapidated,  we 
do  not  know  what  shall  be  done  when  it  is  destroyed.  Our  predecessors 
ought  indeed  not  to  have  spent  that  which  was  collected,  but  we  cannot 
change  what  has  been  done.  The  little  which  still  remains  is  being 
properly  administered.  If  through  your  aid  and  counsel  we  could  be 
freed  from  the  English  parish  levy,  and  our  German  preacher  be  per- 
mitted to  marry  the  Germans,  we  would  be  greatly  helped.  But  without 
your  advice  we  will  do  nothing  in  this  matter,  The  gracious  God  and 
Father  in  Christ  grant  His  gracious  blessing  upon  your  efforts.  Com- 
mending you  to  his  Almighty  protection,  we  assure  you  with  all  submis- 
sion. Your  faithful  servants, 

Adam  Gaer, 
Adam  Mayland, 
Culpepper  in  Virginia,  September  1,  17GS.  Deacons. 

President  Muhlenberg  will  please  to  communicate  this  to  the  assembled 
members  of  the  Hon.  Consistorium. 

After  the  above  two  letters  were  read,  the  following  remarks  were 
made : 

1.  The  President  answered  them  in  October,  soon  after  their  reception, 
and  sent  to  the  catechist  two  of  the  latest  very  edifying  reports  from 
Malabar,  which  arrived  with  the  medicine  chest;  they  may  serve  to 
encourage  and  cheer  him,  especially  in  that  wilderness. 

2.  The  man  who  brought  the  letters  from  Virginia  was  a  member  of 
the  congregation,  and  said,  among  other  matters,  that  the  widow  of  the 
late  Rev.  Mr-  King,  had  the  parsonage  which  was  bought  with  the 
money  collected,  in  full  possession  for  about  seven  years  it" he  mistakes 
not,  and  that  the  stipulated  time  ends  next  year,  and  then  it  shall  again 
return  to  the  congregation. 

3.  N.  B.  It  is  said  to  be  a  profitable  properly,  and  to  have  several 
negro  slaves  in  its  possession,  who  work  the  land.  But  it  is  at  present 
in  a  dangerous  crisis.  For  in  Virginia,  the  Episcopal  Church  is  estab- 
lished on  a  firm  basis,  and  whatever  dissents  from  it,  be  it  called  what 


102  DOCUMENTAEY  HISTOEY. 

it  may,  is  bound  by  law  to  contribute  annually  to  the  established  preach- 
ers, and  the  preachers  also  have  the  exclusive  right  to  marry. 
Even  if  dissenting  parties  be  married  by  dissenting  preachers,  it  is  not 
legal,  and  they  can  escape  with  no  less  fees  to  the  established  county 
preacher,  and  must  receive  a  certificate  of  marriage  from  him.  If  a 
dissenting  preacher  is  on  good  terms  with  the  English  county  rector  or 
pastor,  or  lives  in  some  style,  he  may  do  some  things  under  indulgence. 
The  late  Rev.  Mr.  K.  is  said  to  have  been  much  liked  by  the  established 
clergy,  and,  if  he  had  been  willing  to  exert  himself,  might  have  been 
able  to  obtain  a  charter  from  the  government,  and  then  the  Lutheran 
Church,  parsonage  and  congregation  would  have  been  assured.  He  was 
otherwise  orthodox  in  doctrine,  because  he  had  not  studied  at  Halle. 
But  because  he  had  not  kept  within  proper  bounds  in  regard  to 
adiaphora,  and  went  to  extremes,  he  had  difficulties  with  his  congre- 
gation, though  not  with  the  Established  brethren.  Although  none  of 
them  advised  him  to  go  to  the  Mother  and  be  regularly  ordained,  yet 
the  Gordian  Knot  would  thus  have  been  cut  at  one  stroke.  But  his 
health  was  too  feeble  to  undertake  such  a  journey  and  hardship.  He 
had  his  son  educated  in  an  English  academy,  and  study  theology.  The 
son  also  several  years  ago  traveled  to  England,  and  has  returned  with 
regular  orders.  The  opportune  time,  however,  seems  to  be  past,  because 
the  Mother  at  home  has  become  subject  to  hysterics,  and  in  her  paroxysms, 
disciplines  her  children  with  an  iron  rod,  and  does  not  see  where  she 
strikes.  Our  German  Lutherans  in  that  place  can  scarcely  be  freed 
from  the  county  parish  tax  in  any  other  way  by  anyone,  but  by  some 
German  adventurer  accepting  a  call  from  the  congregation,  then  upon  this 
call,  traveling  to  the  Mother  [church],  signing  her  articles  and  canons, 
and  being  regularly  ordained.  This  will  bring  exemption  from  double 
taxes,  and  enable  them  to  retain  their  dear  German  mother  tongue,  as 
long  as  is  necessary.  The  English  Presbyterians  increase  rapidly  in 
Virginia,  because  they  always  have  active  preachers  on  hand,  and 
always  educate  some  who  are  fitted  for  the  conditions  here. 

X.  Several  delegates  from  Rev.  Mr.  Schaum's  congregations  com- 
plained to  the  President,  that  some  of  the  godless  vagabonds,  who  claim  to 
be  preachers  stir  up  some  of  their  members,  and  among  other  things  make 
the  charge,  that  the  elders,  deacons,  and  members  in  the  written  call 
to  Mr.  Schaum  had  obligated  and  bound  themselves  with  body  and 
soul,  land  and  possessions  unto  their  children's  children,  and  that  they 
— with  such  preachers,  are  free  and  outside  of  the  union  and  in  much 
better  reputation,  because  they  hire  themselves  by  the  year,  and  accord- 
ing to  circumstances  are  freely  accepted  and  dismissed.  Since  the  elders 
and  deacons  some  years  ago  had  asked  for  Mr.  Schaum,  and  sent  a 


TWENTY-FIRST  CONVENTION,  1703.  103 

feigned  call  to  the  Rev.  Ministerium  on  this  account,  they  would  like  to 
see  it  again,  and  show  it  to  the  disaflected  members,  so  that  they  may  see 
that  it  contains  nothing  dangerous  or  treacherous.  The  President 
answered  they  should  have  a  copy  of  it  with  notes.  But  Rev.  Mr. 
Schaum  thought  they  should  also  see  the  original,  and  the  President 
should  send  it  to  him  from  Philadelphia,  because  he  did  not  have  the 
Archives  or  magazine  with  him,  having  come  to  New  Hanover  not  in  a 
wagon,  hut  only  on  horse-hack.  So  one  is  always  worried  and  pursued 
by  Satan's  hounds  and  wild  boars,  as  long  as  there  remain  regions  and 
corners  where  the  Canaanites  hold  their  own. 

Monday,  November  7,  was  an  uneasy  morning,  because  the  delegates 
all  desired  to  speak  with  the  preachers,  and  one  had  this,  the  other  that 
to  ask  and  declare.  As  it  also  began  to  threaten  rain,  each  desired  to 
be  dismissed  soon  and  sent  away  on  the  return  journey.  The  three  stu- 
dents started  on  the  journey  to  Philadelphia ;  Rev.  Mr.  Schultz  arrived 
with  a  deacon  from  Philadelphia.  About  ten  o'clock  A.  m.,  preachers 
and  delegates  went  to  the  church,  and  heard  Rev.  Mr.  Kurtz,  Jr.,  preach. 
He  preached  the  Synodical  sermon  on  the  text  Rom.  10  :  1,  "  Brethren 
my  heart's  desire  and  prayer  to  God  is  that  they  might  be  saved."  He 
preached  almost  two  hours  with  great  earnestness  and  emotion.  About 
half-past  twelve  the  church  was  dismissed,  and  the  delegates  and  preach- 
ers assembled  in  the  school-house,  and  each  received  his  reply,  according 
to  the  plan  as  it  was  discussed  last  evening,  and,  as  far  as  our  strength 
then  permitted,  had  been  decided.  Rev.  Mr.  Voigt  had  previously 
at  the  close  of  the  service  thanked  all  present  from  near  and  far, 
and  dismissed  them  with  the  benediction.  And  when  they  had  finally 
received  their  dismissal  in  the  school-house,  and  taken  friendly  have, 
Rev.  Mr.  Schultz  and  Rev.  Mr.  Krug,  together  with  the  delegates  from 
Lancaster,  Philadelphia,  Reading,  Tulpehocken,  etc.,  started  on  the 
journey  to  Reading,  Rev.  Buskerk  and  his  men  toward  German  town, 
and  the  rest  toward  their  districts  to  their  respective  homes ;  and  as 
the  deacons  and  elders  of  the  New  Hanover  congregation  also  desired 
to  have  a  conference  with  Rev.  Mr.  Voigt  and  Muhlenberg,  this  con- 
tinued in  the  school-house  until  the  evening. 

In  the  evening  five  preachers  were  still  together  in  the  parsonage,  and 
we  edified  ourselves  by  considering  various  passages  from  God's  \\'<  id. 
Before  the  brethren  separated  each  received  one  or  two  of  the  latest  very 
edifying  reports  from  Malabar,  which  came  in  the  medicine  chest. 


TWENTY-SECOND   CONVENTION. 


1769. 

(June  25-27,  Philadelphia.) 


[MS.  Muhlenberg  Diary,  also  Halle  Doc.  III.] 

June  24,  Saturday,  various  delegates  arrived,  and  reported  to  me. 
Various  brethren  also  arrived  and  spoke  with  me ;  they  had  had  a  dif- 
ficult journey,  because  of  the  oppressive  heat,  and  were: 

1.  Mr.  Kurtz,  Jr.,  from  Earltown ;  2.  Mr.  Krug,  from  Reading;  3. 
Cand.  Jung,  from  Jordan,  Whitehall  Township,  Northampton  County. 

Egypt)     

Heidelberg,  Linborn,  


4.  Mr.  Friderici,  from  Allenstown ;  5.  Delegates  from  Macunshy  on 
the  Little  Lechan,  Upper  Milford,  Saltzbury,  Saccum ;  6.  Mr.  Kurtz, 
Sen  ,  with  his  delegates  from  Tulpehocken,  Heidelberg,  etc ;  7.  Mr.  Wild- 
balm,  with  petitions  and  testimonials  from  his  congregations  in  Pennsyl- 
vania, Maryland  and  Virginia;  8.  Mr.  Helmuth,  with  delegates  from 
Lancaster ;  9.  Mr.  Deutsch,  as  delegate  from  the  congregation  in  York- 
town  ;  10.  Mr.  Voigt  and  delegates  from  New  Hanover,  Providence  and 
Peikstown ;  11.  Mr.  Buschkirch  and  delegates  from  Germantown ;  12. 
Delegates  from  Barren  Hill  in  Whitemarsh ;  13.  P.  M[uhlenberg]  with 
delegates  from  Jersey,  from  the  congregations  in  New  Germantown, 
Bedminster,  Greenwich,  etc. ;  14.  Mr.  Dan.  Kuhn,  from  New  York ; 
15.  Mr.  Streit,  from  Jersey. 

The  preachers  and  delegates  were  lodged  and  entertained  at  the  homes 
of  friends  of  the  congregations,  and  their  horses  also  cared  for ;  ex  gr., 
Messrs.  Kurtz,  Jung  and  Voigt,  with  Mr.  Kreuter ;  Kurtz,  Sen.,  with 
Mr.  Schreiber;  Krug  with  Mr.  Keppele,  Sen.;  Friderici  and  Wild- 
ban  with  Mr.  Riemle,  chirurg. ;  Jung  with  Mr.  Weber ;  Buschkirch  with 
Mr.  Laib ;  Helmuth,  Schmid,  P.  M[iihlenberg]  in  the  parsonage, 
although  a  sick  child  and  a  sorrowful,  weak  mother  were  there.  Rev. 
Mr.  Schultz  could  entertain  no  one  and  was  himself  very  weak,  because 
his  only  daughter  was  sick  and  in  agony  with  the  small  pox,  and  old 
Rev.  Mb.,  was  almost  out  of  his  wits,  because,  in  the  awful  heat,  he  was 
questioned  and  overloaded  with  numberless  trifles  from  all  sides  at  once. 
104 


TWENTY-SECOND  CONVENTION,  1769.  105 

Besides  parents  announced  their  children  for  baptism,  others  their  sick 
for  intercession,  still  others  for  publishing  of  the  banns,  and  also  a  child 
to  be  buried  to-morrow.  The  delegates  of  the  United  Congregations  had 
to  entertain  themselves  at  their  own  expense.  In  the  evening  at  ten,  the 
parsonage  was  vacated  by  strangers,  and  I  wrote,  meditated  and 
prayed,  until  halt-past  three,  after  midnight. 

Sunday,  June  25.  In  the  morning,  about  six  o'clock,  the  business 
began  again.  The  choir  leaders  wished  a  program  for  the  singing,  and 
had  been  able  only  to  get  two  men  with  French  horns,  who,  in  the  absence 
of  an  organ,  were  to  support  the  singing.  Afterwards,  Rev.  Mr.  S  ,  from 
Lebanon  arrived.  Finally  the  remaining  preachers  assembled  in  the 
parsonage  after  eight  o'clock,  went  to  St.  Michael's  Church,  where  they 
and  all  the  delegates  were  to  assemble  and  were  to  go  thence  to 
Zion's  Church  in  procession.  About  nine  o'clock  the  President  reepjested 
those  present  to  proceed  in  the  following  order,  and  go  to  Zion's  while 
the  bells  were  ringing  : 

1.  The  corporation,  i.  e.,  deacons  and  elders  of  the  Philadelphia  con- 
don,  the  deacons  first  and  the  sacred  vessels,  and  the  elders  fol- 
lowing. 

2.  The  invited  honorable  members  of  the  Church  Council  of  the 
German  Reformed  congregation  in  Philadelphia. 

3.  The  delegates  from  the  congregation  in  Lancaster. 

4.  Delegates  from  York  across  the  Susquehanna,  from  Germantown, 
Readingtown  on  the  Schuylkill,  from  Hanover,  Providence,  Peikstown 
and  Barren  Hill. 

5.  Delegates  from  Tulpehocken,  Heidelberg,  etc. 

6.  Delegates  from  Lebanon,  Manheim,  etc. 

7.  Delegates  from  Earltown,etc. 

8.  Delegates  from  New  Germantown  Bediminster,  Greenwich  in 
Jersey. 

0.  Delegates  from  Donegal,  Middletown,  etc. 

10.  Delegates  from  Macunshy,  Heidelberg,  Jordan  in  Northampton 
County. 

11.  Strangers  and  Friends. 

Then  followed  the  teachers  and  laborers  in  the  following  order,  the 
younger  firsl  and  then  according  to  the  time  they  have  served  hen  : 

1.  Messrs.  Kuhn  and  Streit.  2.  Pet.  M[iihlenberg],  Georg  Jung  and 
Wildbahn.  3.  Friderici and  Buschkirk.  4.  Helmut  h  and  Schmid.  6. 
Schultzand  Kurtz, Jr.  G.  Voigt and Krug.  7.  Stoeverand  Kurtz, Sen. 
8.  The  Reformed  pastor,  Rev.  Mr.  Weinberg  and  Muhlenberg,  So. 

And  in  order  that  the  confusion  in  so  great  a  gathering  might  be 


106  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

prevented  as  far  as  possible,  we  had  requested  those  members  of  our 
congregation  who  had  already  served  as  elders  and  deacons,  to  supervise 
the  matter,  keep  the  four  doors  of  the  new  church  and  the  one  at  the 
"  pedestal "  of  the  tower  locked,  until  the  procession  had  entered. 
When  the  procession  arrived,  the  choir  inside,  accompanied  by  the  two 
French  horns,  sang  the  first  stanza  of  "  0  Heilger  Gtist,  kehr  bey  nns 
ein,"  etc.  It  was  stirring  to  the'  senses  and  impressive  to  the  spirit, 
so  far  as  one  was  able  in  the  confusion  to  collect  one's  thoughts. 

After  the  great  throng,  through  the  five  doors,  was  relieved  and  the 
large  church  was  full, 

1.  Mr.  Kurtz,  Sr.,  came  before  the  altar,  and,  in  a  loud  voice, 
read  the  100th  Psalm,  "  Make  a  joyful  noise  unto  the  Lord,  all  ye  lands." 

2.  The  entire  assembly  sang  the  second  stanza  of  the  hymn:  "Allein 
Gott  in  der  Hoh"  etc., "  Wir  loben,  preisen,  anbeten  dieh"  etc.  I  would 
have  preferred  the  first  stanza,  but  I  am  always  afraid  it  may  not  be 
rightly  understood  in  this  militant  church,  when  it  says,  "All  Fehd  hat 
nun  ein  Ende." 

3.  Mb.,  Sen.,  went  before  the  altar,  and  all  the  other  brethren  around 
the  altar  railing,  a.  Mb.,  Sen.,  declared  that  by  God's  grace,  protection 
and  mercy  the  foundation  stone  of  this  building  was  laid  with  the 
reading  of  God's  Word,  and  prayer,  and  given  the  name  "  Zion,"  that 
on  June  11,  1706,  in  the  presence  of  the  United  Rev.  Ministerium,  the 
corner  stone  was  laid,  and  the  entire  building  has,  under  the  especial 
gracious  providence  of  the  merciful  King  of  Zion,  Immanuel,  pro- 
gressed so  far  that  it  is  now  to  be  consecrated,  and  be  set  apart  for  use. 
Hereby  it  is  dedicated  to  the  Triune  God,  Father,  Son  and  Holy  Spirit ! 
for  the  use  of  the  German  Evangelical  Lutheran  congregation,  which 
confesses  the  one  Evangelical  doctrine  upon  the  foundation  of  the  Apos- 
tles and  Prophets,  the  two  Holy  Sacraments  instituted  by  Christ,  accord- 
ing to  the  Unaltered  Augsburg  Confession,  and  other  Symbolical  Books. 
He  consecrated  it  with  the  verse,  Isa.  35 :  8,  "  Grant,  O  Lord,  that  an 
highway  shall  be  here,  and  a  way,  which  shall  be  called  The  Way  of 
Holiness ;  that  the  unclean  may  not  pass  over  it,  and  that  it  be  for  us 
and  our  posterity  that  we  go  upon  it,  so  that  also  the — " 

b  Mr.  Kurtz,  Sen.,  gave  a  verse  for  the  ministry,  I  Peter  6 :  2-4, 
"  Feed  the  flock  of  Christ,"  etc. 

c.  Mr.  Stover,  for  Holy  Baptism  and  Communion,  Tit.  3  :  5, "  Accord- 
ing to  His  mercy  God  saved  us,"  etc.     I  Cor.  11 :  23-25. 

d.  Mr.  Kurtz,  Jun.,  for  the  education  of  children,  Ephes.  6 :  1-4, 
Psalm  34:  12  [11]. 

e  Mr.  Krug,  for  the  extension  of  Christ's  kingdom  of  grace  on  earth, 
Isa.  60  :  1,  4,  5,  '  Arise,  shine,"  etc. 


TWENTY- SECOND  CONVENTION,  1769.  107 

f.  Mr.  Voigt,  for  the  preservation  of  Christ's  kingdom  of  grace  amid 
sorrow  and  persecution,  Isa.  53:  10,"  When  lie  shall  make  his  soul  an 
offering  for  sin,"  etc 

</.  Mr.  Schultz,  for  the  elders,  deacons  and  trustees  of  Zion's  build- 
ing, I  Kings  8 :  57,  58,  "  The  Lord  our  God  be  with  us,"  etc. 

/;.  Mr.  Friderici,  for  love,  peace  and  unity  among  the  German 
Protestants  in  America,  Fsahn  133,  "  Behold  how  good  and  pleasant 
it  is,"  etc. 

i.  Mr.  Buschkirch,  for  our  King  and  all  Christian  magistrates,  I  Tim. 
2 :  1-3,  "  I  exhort  therefore,"  etc. 

k.  Mr.  Ilelmuth,  for  our  Fathers,  benefactors  in  Europe,  Psalm  121  : 
7-8,  "  The  Lord  preserve  thee,"  etc. 

I.  Mr.  Schmidt,  for  the  dear  laborers  among  the  Malabars  and  Jews, 
Isa.  26  :  15,"  Thou,  Lord,  dost  continue  among  the  heathen."  isa.  43  :  5,  6. 

//(.  Mr.  Jung,  for  the  family,  Proverbs  14  :  26-27,  "He  that  feareth 
the  Lord,"  etc. 

n.  Peter  Muhlenberg,  for  the  benefactors  of  the  building  of  Zion  in 
this  country,  Psalm  122  :  6-7,  "  Pray  for  the  peace  of  Jerusalem,"  etc. 

o.  Mr.  Kuhn,  for  the  Seminary  which  is  to  be  established,  Song  of 
Sol.  8  :  8,  "  We  have  a  little  sister  and  she  hath  no  breasts ;"  Isa.  40  :  11, 
"  He  shall  feed  his  flock." 

p.  Mr.  Streit,  for  the  strength  of  godliness,  Isa.  40 :  31,  "  They  that 
wait  upon  the  Lord  shall  renew  their  strength,"  etc. 

4.  The  hymn  was  sung  antiphonally,  "Nun  danhet  allund  bringet  Ehr." 

5.  Mb.,  Sen.,  preached  the  first  sermon  in  Zion.  The  text  was 
Isa.  43:  1  to  6.  He  had  the  sermon  written,  was  weak  and  distressed 
in  body,  and  sorrowful  iu  spirit,  sore  and  oppressed  in  his  che3t,  felt  the 
6trong  vapor  of  the  fresh  plaster  and  paint  in  the  church,  and  the  news 
was  whispered  into  his  ear  just  when  he  entered  the  pulpit,  that  his 
little  grandchild,  Mr.  Schultz's  daughter,  had  died. 

On  account  of  his  weakness,  the  crowded  room,  the  intolerable  heat, 
etc.,  he  omitted  the  explanation  or  paraphrase  of  the  text,  and  treated 
of  only  two  doctrines  in  it :  1.  That  God,  the  Lord,  would  preserve 
Hia  Kingdom  of  Grace  in  this  world  amid  all  hostile  attacks,  sorrows 
and  persecutions,  unto  the  end  of  days  ;  2,  and  in  the  last  days  greatly 
ase  and  glorify  it.  At  the  close  of  the  sermon  he  made  an  appeal 
to  the  assembly  ii>r  a  collection,  which  the  elders  would  receive  at  the 
doors  as  the  people  went  out. 

6.  After  the  sermon  they  sang,  "Nun  danket  alle  Ootl  mil  Herbert, 
Mund  und  Handen,"  etc.,  and  the  assembly  was  dismissed  with  the 
benedirtion. 

In  the  afternoon,  at  half-past  two,  the  service  was  continued.    I  w:.s 


108  DOCUMENTAKY  HISTORY. 

ill  and  had  to  take  my  bed.  Mr.  Kurtz,  Sr.,  was  requested  to  preach. 
The  large  church  was  filled,  and  he  preached  on  Mark  16 :  15,  16,  20, 
"  And  he  said  unto  them,  Go  ye  into  all  the  world,  and  preach  the 
Gospel  to  every  creature,"  etc.  According  to  the  testimony  of  the 
other  brethren  who  were  present,  it  was  a  grand,  stirring  and  edifying 
sermon.  Mr.  Kurtz,  Sr.,  conducted  the  afternoon  service  as  follows : 
1.  They  sang  "  Seelenbrdutigam,  Jem  Gottes  Lamm."  2.  He  baptized 
the  children.  3.  Preached.  4.  After  the  sermon  they  sang  "Lobe  den 
Herren,  den  machtigen  Konig  der  Ehren,"  etc.  5.  He  dismissed  the 
assemblage  with  the  benediction.  6.  And  again  a  collection  was  lifted. 
In  the  evening,  towards  six  o'clock,  a  child  was  buried,  the  funeral  be- 
ing conducted  by  our  brother,  Rev.  Mr.  Schmidt,  who  briefly  addressed 
the  numerous  followers  in  the  old  church,  on  the  seventh  verse  of  the 
fourth  chapter  in  the  Book  of  Wisdom,  "  But  the  righteous,  though  he 
die  too  early,  yet  shall  he  be  in  rest."  Meanwhile,  I  was  forced  to  rise 
and  go  to  the  Reverendus  CommUsarius  of  the  High  Church,  who  de- 
sired to  confer  with  me  concerning  the  English  service  to  be  held  in 
Zion's  to-morrow.  He  showed  me  that,  in  my  written  invitation,  I  had 
made  a  mistake  and  must  necessarily  visit  two  eminent  persons  with 
him.  He  had  his  horses  put  to  the  carriage,  and  took  me  to  two  houses, 
where  I  was  to  correct  the  mistake  by  word  of  mouth.  The  entire  error 
was  that  I  had  not  called  upon  the  Pro-Rector  of  the  Academy  and  in- 
vited him  personally  and  in  particular,  but  only  in  writing  with  the 
rest,  and  had  also  forgotten  the  officers  of  the  Royal  Regiment,  etc. 
Great  cry  and  little  wool !  However,  I  did  not  wish  to  appear  ungrate- 
ful, since  the  gentlemen  of  the  academy  or  college  had  permitted  us  to 
use  their  chapel  for  services  for  almost  three  years,  and  thus  shown  us  a 
great  kindness  in  need.  I  made  every  endeavor,  therefore,  to  correct 
the  error,  and  also  before  night  sent  a  written  invitation  to  the  officers. 
In  the  evening  at  eight  o'clock,  the  evening  service  in  Zion's  began, 
at  which  the  hanging  chandelier  which  our  worthy  friends  in  London 
had  provided,  was  for  the  first  time  furnished  with  twenty-four  lights, 
and  shed  its  rays  abroad  in  the  large  building  like  a  bonum  communi- 
cabile,  and  caused  men  to  rejoice.  1.  They  sang,  uSolt  es  gleich  bis- 
xveilen  scheinen,  ah  ob  Gott  verliess  die  Seinen,"  etc.  2  Rev.  Mr.  Hel- 
muth  delivered  a  pithy  and  stirring  address  on  the  words,  Neb.  9  :  30-31, 
"  Yet  many  years  didst  thou  forbear  them  and  testifiedst  against  them 
by  thy  Spirit  in  thy  prophets,"  etc.  3.  Sang  antiphonally  "  Wachet  avf, 
ruft  wis  die  Stimme,"  etc.,  and  in  going  out  a  collection  was  lifted. 
With  this,  this  day  was  ended  under  God's  special  goodness,  grace  and 
mercy.  The  blessing  which  the  heart-directing  God  granted  in  the 
three-fold  service  through  free-will  collections,  amounted  to  somewhat 


TWENTY-SECOND  CONVENTION,  17G9.  109 

more  than  two  hundred  pounds,  which  in  these  times  of  depression  and 
Bcarcity  of  money  is  very  remarkable. 

Monday,  June  2<i,  in  the  forenoon  the  members  of  the  Rev.  Minis- 
teriuni  assembled  in  the  parsonage.  The  preachers  of  the  English 
Episcopal  Church  had  yesterday  in  their  meetings  invited  their  wardens 
and  vestries  for  to-day,  in  the  name  of  our  corporation.  Toward  eleven 
o'clock,  A.  Mer.,  a  crowd  of  members  of  our  congregation  assembled  be- 
fore  Zion's  Church.  But  our  deacons  and  elders  kept  the  doors  locked, 
in  order  that  our  English  guests  might  have  the  best  place.  At  eleven 
o'clock  the  venerable  Governor  Hamilton,  Esq.,  arrived,  then  the  Rev. 
Commissariux,  Mr.  Peters,  and  the  other  preachers  of  the  High  Church, 
with  their  church  wardens  and  vestrymen,  in  procession.  Then  followed 
the  Doctors  of  Theology,  the  Professors  of  Philosophy  and  Medicine, 
and  other  graduates  of  the  University  in  procession,  wearing  their 
festive  garb  ;  then  the  most  eminent  lawyers,  several  officers  of  military 
rank,  likewise  justices  of  the  peace,  city  physicians  and  other  German 
and  English  families,  who,  however,  did  not  fill  the  church  half  as 
much  as  the  Germans  alone  yesterday.  Of  the  English  Presbyterian 
congregations,  their  preachers  were  in  attendance,  as  also  the  pastor  of 
the  English  Paptist  congregation.  The  Mayor  of  the  city  sent  a  letter 
to  me  and  excused  himself  courteously,  saying  that,  because  of  pressing 
business,  he  could  not  attend,  but  wished  all  success  to  Zion's.  An 
English  preacher  of  St.  Paul's  Church  also  excused  himself  in  a  letter, 
saving  that  he  could  not  come  because  an  extraordinary  hindrance  had 
occurred.  The  three  preachers  of  the  Swedish  Church  still  remaining 
could  not  attend,  because  about  this  time  they  also  held  a  convention  in 
the  country,  and  the  most  intelligent  of  them  had  excused  himself  several 
days  before  both  in  writing  and  by  word  of  mouth.  The  second 
English  preacher,  Mr.  Duchee,  began  with  the  English  prayers ;  then 
the  Pro-rector  of  the  College  or  University  offered  a  prayer,  which  lie 
had  composed  for  the  occasion.  After  the  singing  of  a  Psalm,  the  Hon. 
Mr.  Peters,  as  rector  of  the  High  Church,  preached  an  excellent  sermon 
em  the  Angels'  Song,  Luke  2:  14,  "Glory  to  God  in  the  highest  and 
en  earth  peace,"  etc.  And  after  he  had  ended  his  discourse,  I  added 
the  follow  in..'-  words  instead  of  a  thanksgiving:  '*  May  it  please  the 
Honorable,  Reverend  and  Worshipful  Convention  for  the  time  being 
to  hear  a  few  words  in  broken  English,  instead  of  a  due  and  better 
kind  of  thanksgiving  and  Valediction. 

"  What  a  glorious  lustre  doth  it  spread  and  reflect  upon  State  and  Reli- 
gion, when  in  an  infant  Christian   Republic,  framed  in  a  remott 
of  the  transient  World,  the  excellent  Rulers  and  Patriots  of  the  state, 
the  Catholic  spirited  Ambassadors  for  Christ,  the  eminently  learned 


110  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Faculties  of  the  College  for  promoting  liberal  education,  sublimer  Arts 
and  Sciences,  when  some  of  the  chief  families  and  other  well-disposed 
persons  of  divers  Orders,  Rank,  Degrees  and  Dignity ;  when  all  these 
I  say,  condescend  to  comply  with  an  humble  invitation  of  their  infer- 
iors, tho'  fellow  Christians  and  citizens  repair,  animated  as  it  were  with 
Christian  Zeal,  Love  and  Benevolence,  to  a  new-built  House  of  Wor- 
ship, intended  and  dedicated  for  an  Institution  to  prepare  and  form  by 
the  means  of  divine  Grace,  unfeigned  Christians,  faithful  Subjects  to  our 
Rightful  Protestant  Kings  and  all  that  are  in  authority,  peaceful  and 
useful  members  of  the  commonwealth,  for  the  Glory  of  God  the  most 
High,  and  an  additional  support  of  sound  religion  ;  when  they  are  not 
ashamed  to  humble  themselves  prostrate  before  the  throne  of  mercy,  in 
bounden  duty  to  worship  Jehovah  in  spirit  and  truth ;  when  they  join 
in  Supplications,  Prayers,  Intercessions  and  praises  for  all  men,  for 
Kings  and  all  that  are  in  authority,  that  we  may  lead  a  quiet  and 
peaceful  life  in  all  Godliness  and  Honesty !  By  acting  so  noble  and 
seeming  a  Christian  part,  they  consecrate  a  House  and  place,  intended 
for  divine  worship  in  a  solemn  manner,  promote  lovely  unity  and  har- 
mony, encourage  Piety  and  Virtue,  brotherly  kindness  and  chanty,  con- 
firm mutual  confidence,  sweeten  the  bitter  cup  of  affliction  and  tribula- 
tion in  the  Valley  of  Tears  and  state  of  Tryal,  and  render  a  striking 
instance  worthy  of  imitation. 

"  And  this  you  have  done  Honorable  Reverend,  and  Worshipful  Con- 
vention, by  granting  our  humble  request,  by  solemnly  performing  and 
attending  the  first  English  Service  in  Zion's,  which  shall  be  a  lasting 
monument  and  recorded  for  an  example  and  pattern  to  our  latest  pos- 
terity. And  O !  that  the  words  of  Spirit  and  life,  which  are  delivered 
here  the  first  time  in  Zion,  were  printed  in  the  innermost  centre  of  our 
heart !  O !  that  they  were  graven  with  an  Iron  Pen  and  Lead  in  the 
American  Rocks  forever !  May  the  Almighty  God  of  Hosts,  the 
Father  of  all  mercy  and  consolation  in  Christ,  the  neverfailing  Fountain 
of  all  Perfections,  Life,  Bliss  and  Glory,  be  the  grand  aim  and  object  of 
your  Wisdom,  Affection  and  Highest  Taste,  your  shield  and  reward  in 
this  fading  world  and  declining  life,  and  abundantly  hereafter,  when 
time  and  changes  shall  be  no  more!  Amen."  1 

The  collection  was  not  as  large  as  we  had  desired  and  hoped,  but 
amounted  to  only  a  little  more  than  £16.  But  we  must  be  satisfied, 
and  consider  that  our  invitation  was  to  some  extent  to  show  a  recogni- 
tion of  their  friendly  and  neighborly  love,  since  they  had  given  us  the 
university  chapel  for  three  years  freely,  and  might  yet  injure  us,  if  they 
would  give  it  to  one  or  other  of  the  German  party  leaders. 

1  Original  form  of  this  English  address  as  found  in  his  journal. 


TWENTY-SECOND  CONVENTION,  17G9.  Ill 

In  the  afternoon  about  two  o'clock,  the  United  Evangelical  Minister- 
iuui  and  the  delegated  elders  assembled  in  the  school  house,  and  trans- 
acted the  following  business,  and  passed  these  resolutions: 

After  prayer, — 

1.  Two  written  communications  from  the  Church  Council  of  the 
Evangelical  congregation  in  Yorktown,  across  the  Susquehanna,  to  the 
President  were  read,  in  which  they  plead  for  an  experienced,  faithful  pas- 
tor, and  especially  for  Rev.  Mr.  Kurtz,  Sen.,  and  send  a  call  for  him  to 
the  Rev.  Ministerium. 

Mr.  Kurtz,  Sen.,  was  asked  whether  he  was  inclined  and  willing  to 
accept  a  call  thither  ?  Response  :  "  He  would  be  pleased  to  go,  or  also 
to  remain,  and  would  leave  it  to  the  judgment  of  the  Rev  Ministerium." 

The  delegates  from  the  Tulpehocken  congregation  insisted  that  Mr. 
Kurtz  must  remain  with  them,  because  he  had  served  these  congrega- 
tions so  long,  the  people  were  accustomed  to  him,  and  if  he  were  to  move 
away,  great  care  must  be  taken  lest  the  congregations  all  be  scattered. 
There  was  some  preliminary  discussion  pro  and  contra.  The  President 
asked  the  members  of  the  Ministerium  each  to  give  his  opinion  in  the 
matter.  They  considered  that  the  Yorktown  congregation  must  be 
helped  this  time,  because  it  was  in  danger  of  being  entirely  torn  to 
pieces  and  scattered.  One  of  the  members  thought  the  change  with 
Rev.  Mr.  Kurtz  might  be  effected  without  such  great  danger  as  the  Tul- 
pehocken people  believed,  if  some  one  would  be  sent  to  take  his  place. 
Another  said,  the  arguments  of  the  Tulpehocken  people  wrere  not  suf- 
ficient, and  that  it  appeared  as  though  they  relied  too  much  upon  men, 
and  set  too  much  confidence  on  one  person :  e.  g.,  if  Mr.  Kurtz  were 
to  die,  what  then  ?  A  preacher,  at  best,  can  only  plant  and  water,  but 
God  gives  the  increase,  and  is  bound  to  no  person.  A  town  like  Y'ork, 
in  such  a  remote  district,  should  especially  have  a  capable,  gifted  worker, 
whom  grace  lias  favored,  etc.  Finally  the  delegates  from  Tulpehocken 
stated,  that  they  had  no  further  orders,  except  to  ask  for  their  old  pas- 
tor. But,  if  notwithstanding  this,  a  change  was  to  be  effected,  Senior 
Miihlenherg  must  himself  move  to  Tulpehocken  ;  for  this,  the  Minister- 
ium might  prepare  itself. 

2.  It  was  remarked  that  the  congregations  in  Macunshy,  on  the  Little 
Lechau,  in  Salisbury,  Upper  Milford  and  Saccum  had  for  a  long 
time  already  petitioned  the  Proeses  Ministerii  for  a  faithful  and  experi- 
enced preacher,  and  had  especially  at  the  last  Synodical  meeting  on 
November  6  and  7,  17G8,  urgently  asked  for  one,  and  had  also  been 
encouraged  with  the  prospect  of  the  arrival  of  the  new  preachers. 

The  Ministerium  and  other  delegates  all  regarded  it  necessary  that 
an  experienced  laborer  be  stationed  in  this  large  district.   But  whence? 


112  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

From  the  basket  or  the  press  ?  Mr.  Buskerk,  from  Germantown,  was 
proposed.  But  against  this  the  Germantown  delegates  protested,  and 
said,  that  changes  often  caused  danger  and  harm,  they  were  until  now 

at  peace  and  satisfied  with  Mr.  B ,  and  the  congregation  peaceful 

and  growing  after  so  many  previous  sad  quarrels,  and  they  were  afraid 
difficulties  might  again  arise  if  a  change  were  to  take  place.  Yet  they 
did  not  absolutely  insist  that  Mr.  B must  remain,  because  other  for- 
saken congregations  also  need  preachers  acquainted  with  the  conditions 
of  this  country,  if  only  they,  the  Germantowners,  would  again  be 
supplied  with  a  good  man. 

3.  The  delegates  from  Hummelstown,  Middletown  and  Donegal 
appeared.  These  small  congregations  are  mentioned  in  the  Protocol  of 
Nov.  6,  7,  8,  1768,  and  in  the  Journal  of  the  last  Lancaster  journey. 
They  begged  very  urgently  for  assistance,  but  we  had  nothing  to  pro- 
pose except  they  might  occasionally  be  visited  from  Lancaster,  and  by 
other  brethren. 

4.  The  congregation  in  Peikstown  is  again  vacant,  since  Peter  Muhl- 
enberg and  Streit  are  no  longer  here.  It  was  not  more  convenient  for 
any  preacher,  than  the  one  in  Hanover  and  Providence.  But  the 
Hanover  congregation  has  service  only  every  two  weeks  as  it  is,  and 
cannot  spare  a  Sunday  ;  the' Providence  congregation  is  weak,  does  not 
wish  to  mi?s  a  Sunday,  and  yet  cannot  raise  half  the  salary,  and  lies  in 
the  same  district  as  the  Peikstown  congregation,  only  the  Schulkiel 
flowing  between  them  and  separating  them.  The  Peikstown  congrega- 
tion is  much  stronger  than  that  in  Providence.  If  it  had  a  preacher 
not  in  our  union,  the  Providence  congregation  would  be  completely  dis- 
integrated. The  Ministerium  therefore  let  it  be  understood  that  Provi- 
dence and  Peikstown  be  reckoned  as  one,  and  that  in  each  the  fourth 
Sunday  must  be  set  apart  for  service.  The  delegates  from  Providence 
protested,  and  said  the  congregation  would  not  grant  it,  and  if  they 
were  to  have  service  only  once  every  four  weeks,  many  members  would 
go  astray,  and  join  the  neighboring  churches,  where  so-called  antagonists 
preach.  Response:  It  is  proper  that  the  Peikstown  congregation  be 
served  by  the  nearest  pastor  from  Hanover. 

5.  A  so-called  Lutheran  preacher,  Peter  Mischler  by  name,  applied 
for  reception  into  the  United  Ministerium.  He  also  had  several  letters 
from  partisans  in  several  congregations  as  his  recommendation.  The 
President  answered  he  might  appear  before  the  Ministerium  to-morrow 
morning  at  ten  o'clock,  when  his  case  would  be  considered. 

Since  it  was  now  already  past  5  o'clock,  the  meeting  adjourned  to 
attend  the  funeral  of  the  daughter  of  Rev.  Mr.  Schultz.  The  members 
of  the  Rev.  Ministerium  preceded  the  body,  parents  and  grandparents 


TWENTY-SECOND  CONVENTION,   1769.  113 

with  the  families,  elders  and  deacons  and  a  great  number  of  members  of 
the  congregation,  neighbors,  etc.,  followed,  and  went  to  St.  Michael's 
Church,  which  was  almost  too  small  for  those  present.  The  school- 
master and  his  scholars  first  sang  some  beautiful  stanzas  from  funeral 
hymns.  Then  Rev.  Mr.  Helmuth  made  a  comforting  and  edifying 
add icss  on  the  words,  Matth.  9:  24:  "The  maid  is  not  dead,  but 
Bleepeth."  In  the  evening  there  was  another  large  gathering  in  the 
new  church,  where  Rev.  Mr.  Voigt  preached  a  thoroughly  prepared 
sermon  on  the  Benediction,  from  Num.  6  :  24-26.  To-day  various  dele- 
gates started  again  on  their  journey  home,  because  it  is  expensive  to 
live  in  the  city,  and  this  is  the  time  to  make  hay. 

Tuesday,  June  27,  in  the  morning  about  8  o'clock,  the  members  of 
the  Rev.  Ministerium  again  met,  to  confer  concerning  the  general  con- 
ditions, and  to  pass  necessary  resolutions.  After  prayer,  the  following 
matters  were  treated  of: 

1.    Whether  Rev.  Mr.  Kurtz,  Senior,  should  accept  the  call  to    YorJc- 

toivn  ?     Response :  a.  Rev.  St ,  pro.    b.  Rev.  V ,  pro.    c.  Rev. 

Mr.  Kr objected,  that  it  might  not  be  endurable  for  the  bodily  con- 
dition of  Mr.  Kurtz,  if  after  being  accustomed  to  long  rides  he  should 
suddenly  lie  transferred  to  a  comparatively  quiet  place,  etc.  Answer  was 
made,  that  he  would  have  sufficient  exercise  on  foot  and  on  horseback,  in 

and  around  Yorktown  ;  and  Mr.  Kr voted  pro.    d.  Mr.  Kurtz,  Jun., 

said,  that  he  saw  nothing  divine  in  the  call,  because  our  Lord  and 
Saviour  said  to  his  disciples,  if  they  were  persecuted  in  a  city  and 
driven  from  it,  then  they  should  flee  into  another ;  but  this  was  not  the 
case  here,  atque  ergo.  Response :  This  does  not  suit  here ;  but  one 
should  much  more  first  seek  the  hundredth  sheep,  and  leave  the  ninety 
and  nine  in  the  fold,  cared  for  by  another,  etc.  Qusere  b.  Whether 
Mr.  Kurtz,  Sen.,  had  in  any  way  induced  the  Yorktowners  to  give  him 
the  call?  Response:  No  ;  in  no  way.  But  it  is  known  that  they  had 
voted  for  him  four  years  ago  already,  and  petitioned  for  him,  but  that 
something  always  intervened;  and  since  they  now  again  petition,  and 
the  congregation  is  in  a  very  critical  state,  and  we  must  recognize 
an  indication  of  God's  will  in  the  circumstances,  and  could  readily 
find  some  one  for  his  place  in  Tulpchocken,  we  cannot  see  how 
he  could  conscientiously  reject  the  call.  Mr.  Kurtz,  Jr.,  finally  also 
voted  pro.  e.  Rev.  Mr.  Schultz  voted  pro,  and  added  that  Tulpe- 
hocken  is  so  far  in  order,  that  even  if  a  successor  were  not  so  well 
acquainted  or  gifted,  he  could  none  the  less,  with  divine  help,  accom- 
plish some  good,  at  least  keep  the  congregation  in  its  old  condition. 

Rev.  Mr.  H th,  pro.     Rev.  Mr.  Schm ,  pro ;   he  believes  that 

none  suits  better  for  the  Yorktown  people,  who  have  gone  astray,  and 
8 


114  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

are  in  danger,  than  the  experienced  Mr.  Kurtz,  Sen.,  and  that  Tulpe- 
hocken  can  more  easily  be  looked  after  by  another,  for  it  is  certainly 
easier  to  keep  good  order  than  first  to  bring  a  congregation  into  order. 
The  other  members  also  all  voted  pro. 

Then  it  was  asked  how  Tulpehocken  was  to  be  supplied  again  ?  Re- 
sponse :  This  could  not  yet  be  decided,  and  the  resolution  for  a  change 
was  first  to  be  reported  to  both  congregations,  viz.,  Yorktown  and  Tul- 
pehocken, since  Mr.  Kurtz  could  not  change  before  Fall  in  any  case. 
1.  God  the  Lord  will  in  the  meantime  show  His  will  more  clearly 
through  the  circumstances. 

2d  Transaction  :  Concerning  the  supplying  of  the  vacant  congregations 
in  Macunshy,  Salisbury,  Upper  Mllford  and  Saccum. 

Mr.  Buschkirch  was  asked,  whether  he  would  accept  a  call  thither  ? 
Response :  He  would  refer  it  to  the  decision  of  the  Rev.  Ministerium. 
The  Rev.  Ministerium  voted  unanimously  that  he  accept  it.  Mr.  Busch- 
kirch promised  to  make  an  attempt,  if  the  Germantowners  were  pro- 
vided with  another,  viz.,  Rev.  Mr.  Schmidt.  He  would  preach  in 
Macunshy  a  week  from  next  Sunday,  i.  e.,  July  9  a.  c,  D.  V.  The 
delegates  from  Germantown  indeed  again  protested  that  the  many 
changes  were  harmful  to  their  congregation,  but  the  resolution  remained 
until  further  information. 

3.  Concerning  the  four  small  congregations  in  Maxjtown,  Donegal, 
Middletown  and  Hummektown  nothing  further  could  be  decided. 

4.  After  the  so-called  preacher,  Peter  Mischler,  who  had  been  invited 
to  appear  to-day,  arrived,  the  following  business  was  transacted  with 
him : 

I.  Here  is  to  be  noticed  what  had  been  done  in  his  case  yesterday, 
June  26,  in  the  afternoon.  He  was  called,  when  the  members  of  the 
Ministerium  and  delegates  were  assembled,  and  asked  : 

1.  Why  he  disturbed  congregations,  and  supported  several  restless 
parties  in  them  ?  Answer :  He  had  not  known  that  there  was  hostility 
in  the  congregations. 

2.  Rev.  Mr.  St rose  and  related  that  he,  Mischler,  in  the  preceding 

Fall  had  visited  him  (Mr.  St )  with  four  men  from  the  Nordkiel  con- 
gregation.  Mr.  St had,  in  a  friendly  way,  warned  him  that  he  should 

have  nothing  to  do  with  factious  congregregations.  Notwithstanding 
the  warning,  he  with  his  party  crept  into  the  Nordkiel  congregation ; 
afterwards  he  also  accepted  the  church  in  Tulpehocken  which  wTas 
formerly  in  the  hands  of  the  Moravians,  and  became  the  successor 
of  a  vagabond.  Further,  he  sided  with  the  revolting  party  which  had 
before  supported  a  vagabond  in  Heidelberg  against  Mr.  Kurtz, 
Sen.     Then  he  also  crept  into  the  Warwick  congregation  and  caused 


TWENTY-SECOND  CONVENTION,    17G9.  115 

a  split,  yes,  even  recently  bad  a  boy  break  through  tbc  window, 
the  church  door,  and  entered  it  with  bis  party  to  bold  so-called  worship, 
although  be  knew  that  tbe  elders  and  deacons  of  tbe  Warwick  congre- 
gation bad  applied  to  tbe  United  Ministerium,  and  bad  several  times 
been  served  from  Lancaster.  Mischlei  bad  nothing  to  produce  in  bis 
defence,  but  replied :  He  would  give  up  the  said  congregations  if  the 
Ministerium  would  receive  bira.  He  was  therefore  ordered  to  be 
examined  to-day. 

II.  The  transactions  then  followed  thus :  Tbe  President  requested 
him  to  be  truthful  in  bis  answers,  because  they  were  to  be  recorded  in 
tbe  Protocol. 

Question  1.  Where  was  be  born  ?  Answer :  In  Gersweiler  in  Nassau 
Saarbriick. 

2.  Of  what  religion  were  bis  parents?  Answer:  The  father,  Roman 
Catholic ;  the  mother,  Lutheran. 

3.  Did  he  receive  instruction  and  confirmation  in  the  Evangelical  or 
tbe  Catholic  religion  ?  Answer :  In  the  Evangelical,  and  confirmed  by 
Rev.  Mr.  Rust,  in  Mohlstadt. 

4.  Did  be  study  languages,  namely,  Latin,  Greek  and  Hebrew? 
Answer:  No;  only  a  little  Latin. 

5.  Did  be  learn  an  honorable  trade,  namely,  tailoring  ?  Answer  : 
Not  completely  (zunftig). 

6.  How  long  has  be  been  in  Pennsylvania?     Answer:  Seven  years. 

7.  What  induced  him  to  give  up  his  tailoring,  and  act  as  preacher? 
Answer:  Tbe  late  Rev.  Mr.  Schertel. 

8.  Had  be  a  call  to  tbe  ministry  from  any  congregations  where  be 
lived  ?     Answer  :  No. 

9.  Did  any  one  ordain  him  ?  Answer :  Yes ;  Rev.  Schumacher,  in 
the  Blue  Mountains.     [Shame  !  from  such  a  Brutus?] 

10.  Where  was  he  since  then,  and  where  did  he  preach?  Answer: 
In  Albany  Township,  Berks  County;  in  Upper  Windsor,  at  tbe  Brick 
Church  ;  with  Nicolaus  Langen,  in  the  Blue  Mountains  ;  in  Tulpebocken, 
Heidelbergtown,  and  finally  in  Warwick,  twelve  miles  from  Lancaster, 
where  his  party  broke  open  tbe  church  for  him  and  he  held  so-called 
worship  for  them. 

Hereupon  tbe  President  read  several  letters  which  were  written  by 
Mischler's  parties  in  Tulpebocken,  Heidelbergtown,  etc.,  to  the  Minis- 
terium, and  they  praise  him  because  of  his  orthodoxy,  and  demand 
his  reception  in  almost  threatening  language. 

Several   members  of  the  Ministerium  made  tbe  following  remarks: 

1.  Rev.  Mr.  St cast  up  to  him  that  he  had  shown  Philip  Straus  a 

Hebrew  Bible,  and  boasted  that  be  possessed  not  a  little  ability  in  the 


116  DOCUMENTARY  HISTOEY. 

ancient  languages.  To  Nicolaus  Ensminger,  lie  is  said  to  have  boasted 
that  in  languages  he  was  equal  to  all  the  United  Preachers.  Mr. 
Mischler  denied  having  made  such  boasts.  The  President  said,  that  in 
order  that  the  truth  might  be  known,  they  would  make  a  test  them- 
selves, and,  1,  handed  him  the  Psalms  of  David  in  Hebrew,  and  asked 
whether  he  knew  the  letters  and  the  language?  Answer :  No  ;  he  knew 
nothing  of  them.  2.  He  held  the  Greek  Testament  before  him,  asking 
whether  he  knew  the  language?  Answer:  It  was  Greek.  Question: 
Whether  he  could  read  it  ?  Answer :  No  ;  he  did  not  know  the  letters. 
3.  The  President  handed  him  something  in  Latin,  and  requested  that  he 
should  read  and  translate  into  German.  He  read  a  few  words,  but 
could  not  translate. 

4.  The  President :  There  are  people  who,  if  they  have  not  learned  them, 
regard  languages  only  as  husks  and  shells  by  which  men  are  puffed  up,  and 
boast  that  they  possess  the  kernel  and  necessary  gifts  for  the  office 
through  inspiration  of  the  Spirit  without  the  external  shells.  Some  easy 
questions  would  therefore  be  put  to  him  in  the  mother  tongue. 

1.  Rev.  Mr.  Sch asked :  What  is  Religion  ?    Answer :  To  build 

us  up  on  the  foundation  of  the  Apostles  and  Prophets.  [President :  The 
answer  is  not  unfair,  since  the  man  seems  not  accustomed  to  abstracts, 
but  to  concretes.] 

2.  Another  member  of  Synod :  How  can  he  prove  that  there  is  a 
God  ?  Answer :  From  the  Bible.  Question  :  But  if  the  enemies  will 
not  accept  the  Bible,  how  can  he  prove  it  then  ?  Answer  :   From  creation. 

3.  Another :  What  are  our  Symbolical  Books  ?  Answer :  The  Old 
and  New  Testaments. 

4.  Another  desired  that  he  explain  the  verses,  Jeremiah  23 :  5,  6, 
"  Behold  the  days  come,  saith  the  Lord,"  etc.  Instead  of  the  explana- 
tion he  (Mischler)  made  a  brief  address  of  undigested,  disconnected 
thoughts,  which  showed  that  his  mind  must  be  a  chaos. 

5.  Another  asked  :  How  he  could  defend  the  Baptism  of  Children? 
There  was  no  answer,  and  profound  silence  followed. 

President :  We  now  see  that  neither  the  necessary  shell  nor  the  kernel 
needful  for  the  important  office,  neither  mediate  nor  immediate  gifts  are 
present.  In  all  congregations  those  hating  truth  and  light  can  be 
found,  who  seek  tools  and  support  them  for  this  purpose,  that  they  may 
embarrass  and  distress  faithful  laborers,  ruin  congregations,  make 
void  the  power  of  godliness,  and  build  up  the  kingdom  of  Satan. 
He  who  lets  himself  be  hired  by  such  tools,  need  have  nothing  but  a 
lying  and  slanderous  spirit,  a  hardened  heart  and  conscience  and  will 
finally  be  cast  into  the  fire  as  a  used-up  rod  before  God,  before  all  right- 
minded  Christians,  and  at  last  even  before  his  own  adherents ! 


TWENTY-SECOND  CONVENTION,   17G9.  117 

Question  :  What  is  to  be  advised,  and  what  to  be  done? 

Ono  :  lie  lias  a  wife  and  children,  and  needs  support. 

Answer  :  Would  it  not  be  better  if  he  would  support  himself  with 
his  honorable  trade  as  a  tailor? 

Question  :  Whether  we  could  not  assist  him  to  a  position  in  school? 

Rev.  Mr.  St answers  ;  Mr.  Miachler  had  written  him  a  long  letter 

with  his  own  hand,  from  which  it  appeared  that  he  could  not  write  well 
a  single  letter  of  the  alphabet,  or  spell.  The  communication  was  with- 
out any  connected  thought  or  style,  and  yet  the  signature  read  :  "Parr 
Mischlt  /•  in i aider." 

Rev.  Mr.  Kurtz,  Sen.,  advised  that  he  be  made  to  promise  that  he 
leave  the  small  congregations  and  parties,  where  regular  preachers  are 
laboring,  and  remain  where  there  are  no  preachers  at  all,  that  he  be  ex- 
horted to  good  behavior,  and  be  referred  to  the  next  Synodical  meeting. 

Mr.  Kurtz,  Jun.,  thought  he  should  be  shown  to  districts  where  there 
was  the  greatest  destitution  of  the  means  of  grace. 

Answer :  Who  can  do  this,  with  a  good  conscience  ? 

The  President  asked  :  Whether  he  would  cease  from  the  disturbances, 
and  vexatious  divisions,  and  entirely  leave  the  parties  in  Warwick,  Heidel- 
bergtown  and  Tulpehocken,  turn  to  God  and  reform  ?  Answer  :  Yes, 
Yes. 

The  President :  But  if  he  continued  to  let  himself  be  used  by  Satan  and 
his  followers  as  a  wretched  tool,  the  authorities  in  Lancaster  would 
bring  him  and  his  adherents  before  the  Justice  for  breaking  into  the 
Warwick  Church,  and  then  the  above  Protocol  would  serve  against 
him,  and  help  hasten  his  ruin.  He  should  in  future  take  heed  not  to 
make  people  believe  that  he  understood  Latin,  Greek  and  Hebrew,  etc., 
and  that  he  had  an  immediate  unction  and  call  to  the  ministry,  because 
the  evidence  of  both  appear  plainly  enough  from  his  conduct  before  this 
public  meeting,  and  the  Protocol  of  yesterday  and  to-day.  He  again 
promised  that  he  wrould  in  the  future  have  nothing  to  do  with  the  par- 
ties in  Warwick,  Heidelbergtown  and  Tulpehocken,  departed  and  wept 
before  the  door. 

We  have  no  strong  hope  that  he  will  keep  his  promise,  for  the  old 
Diaboku  will  not  give  up  his  favorite  Machiavellian  maxim,  divide  et 
imperabis,  so  long  as  he  is  not  bound,  and  his  followers  are  so  blind, 
hardened  and  evil-minded  that  they  prefer  to  buy  and  drag  in  such 
instruments,  in  order  that  they  may  quench  their  little  wrath,  and,  in 
the  name  of  their  father,  revenge  themselves  against  the  good  work. 
As  far  as  the  leaders  are  concerned,  they  are  accustomed  to  Bay: 
"  We  know  quite  well  ourselves  that  our  pastor  is  ignorant  and  shallow, 
but  for  that  very  reason  we  keep  him,  because  he  serves  our  purpose 


118  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

and  we  can  vex  the  others  this  way.  For  this  is  a  free  country,  where 
neither  Pope  nor  Council,  neither  Synod  nor  Coetus  has  any  authority 
over  us." 

5.  The  matter  concerning  Peikstown  was  taken  up.  All  members  of 
the  Rev.  Ministerium  voted  that  Rev.  Mr.  Voigt  regard  the  congrega- 
tions in  Providence  and  Peikstown  as  one  congregation  and  half  of  his 
parish,  and  hold  public  service  each  fourth  Sunday  in  Providence,  as 
also  each  fourth  Sunday  in  Peikstown. 

6.  The  President  read  a  letter  from  Reading,  signed  by  fourteen  fathers 
of  families,  who  petitioned  the  Rev.  Ministerium  that  they  should  by 
all  means  effect  a  change,  to  wit,  order  Mr.  Krug  to  another  congrega- 
tion and  a  new  man  from  the  Ministerium  to  his  place  in  Readingtown, 
in  order  that  they  may  again  belong  to  the  church  and  congregation, 
and  the  congregation  be  entirely  united. 

The  President  also  read  a  letter  from  the  deacons,  elders,  and  regular 
members  of  the  congregation  in  Reading,  signed  in  all  by  one  hundred 
and  six  persons,  in  which  the  congregation  petitions  that  the  Ministerium 
should  not  yet  remove  their  teacher  and  pastor,  Rev.  Mr.  Krug. 

It  was  resolved  that  the  petition  of  the  congregation  signed  by  one 
hundred  and  six  persons  be  granted  until  further  knowledge,  because 

Rev.  Mr.  Ivr ,  because  of  his  very  delicate  health  is  not  suited 

to  long  continuous  riding,  and  the  still  rougher  conditions  in  the  country 
congregations,  although  it  is  also  difficult,  grievous  and  disagreeable,  if 
one  be  surrounded  by  fourteen  dissatisfied  heads  of  families  who  watch 
every  word,  step,  action,  expression  and  features  in  an  envious  and  hos- 
tile spirit,  do  not  see  with  their  wicked  eyes  any  true  good  or  grace  and 
particular  gifts,  but,  on  the  contrary,  make  elephants  out  of  gnats, 
and  cannot  rest  unless  they  have  followers  and  hornblowers. 

7.  The  affairs  of  the  country  preacher  Wildbahn  and  the  congregations 
served  by  him  until  now,  were  taken  up. 

a.  The  President  read  five  or  six  letters  as  testimonials  from  the  congre- 
gations, from  which  it  appears,  that  all  the  congregations  he  has  served 
so  far  are  well  pleased  with  him,  and  have  nothing  to  object  to  either  in 
his  doctrine  or  his  life. 

b.  Pie  read  from  the  Synodical  Protocol  of  1762  how  the  said  catechUt 
was  examined  by  a  committee  of  the  Rev.  Ministerium,  and  considered 
capable  of  administering  the  Sacraments  in  the  angustia  and  penuria 
laboratorum,  and  he  received  a  license  for  this  purpose. 

c.  His  errors  of  previous  times  were  told  him,  which  were  laid  to  his 
charge,  concerning  which  he  explained  more  fully,  and  attempted  to 
defend  himself  as  much  as  possible. 

d.  Question :  Whether  he  and  his  congregations  are  to  be  received 


TWENTY-SECOND  CONVENTION,   1769.  119 

into  the  Union  ?    Answered  by  all :  Yes;  until  it  can  be  rightly  proved 

before  the  Synod  that  his  doctrine  and  life  render  him  unworthy  and 
incapable  of  being  a  member  of  the  Union. 

8.  Question :  What  is  to  be  done  with  the  candidate,  Mr.  Young, 
who  is  recommended  by  his  honor,  Dr.  Wachsel  ? 

Answer:  His  little  congregations  in  the  Blue  Mountains,  which  he 
has  served  until  now,  give  him  good  testimonials,  and  petition  that  he 
may  remain  with  them. 

Ri  solved,  That  he  shall  be  allowed  one  year  of  probation,  and  that 
the  President  orally  give  him  authority  to  administer  the  Sacraments, 
alter  he  has  been  examined. 

9.  Question :  "What  is  to  be  advised  concerning  the  collection  for 
which  one  of  Young's  congregations  asks  for  its  church  building? 

Final  answer:  In  the  present  condition  of  our  congregations  it  is  not 
at  all  advisable  or  practicable  to  undertake  it. 

10.  A  letter  from  Weissenberg  was  read,  in  which  the  Ministerium 
is  requested,  that  Mr.  Young  be  permitted  to  accept  and  serve  one  more 
small  congregation  in  addition  to  his  four  at  the  end  of  the  year. 

Answer :  Mr.  Young  might  arrange  this  with  the  other  congregations. 

11.  The  President  chose  a  committee  from  the  Reverend  um  Minister- 
ium, and  asked  of  them  that  they  examine  the  candidate,  Mr.  Young, 
and  his  son,  Job.  Peter  in  the  necessary  theoretical  and  practical 
branches  of  theology,  and  refer  their  decision  to  him. 

12.  Concerning  a  Seminary,  which  is  to  be  established,  it  was  resolved, 
that  each  member  write  out  his  thoughts  concerning  the  best  method, 
and  send  them  in. 

13.  To  relieve  the  President,  it  was  resolved,  that  in  each  county 
there  be  a  Vice-President,  but  in  the  towns,  where  it  is  most  suitable,  to 
whom  the  neighboring  congregations  might  first  refer  urgent  matters, 
which  could  not  be  postponed  until  a  Synodical  meeting,  and  must  be 
settled. 

14.  Question;  Where  the  Synod  shall,  D.  V.,  he  held  next  time? 
Answer;  All  unanimously — in  Reading,  on  the  Schuylkill. 

15.  Tlio  votes  for  the  choice  of  a  Prseses  Ministerii  fell  upon  the 
old,  H.  M b .     (den  alten  Muhlesel)  [cancelled]. 

16.  In  the  afternoon,  from  half  past  three  to  seven,  the  Rev.  Exami- 
natores,  Messrs.  St ,  Kr ,  H th  and  Schu ,  were  busy 

■  and  examining  the  young  men,  Mr.  George  Young  and  Peter 
Muhlenberg. 

In  the  evening  there  was  again  a  meeting  for  worship  in  Zion,  where 
Rev.  Mr.  Kurtz,  Junior,  preached  a  thoughtful,  instructive  and 
edifying    farewell   sermon    on   Isa.   54;    1,   2  seep      In    closing,   the 


120  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

President  briefly  thanked,  (a)  the  brethren  and  respective  mem- 
bers of  the  Rev.  Ministerium  for  their  hearty  brotherly  attendance, 
(b)  the  delegates  of  the  United  Congregations,  (c)  the  deacons  and 
elders  of  Zion's  congregation,  (d)  the  friends  in  the  congregation, 
who  kindly  received  and  entertained  the  preachers,  and  (e)  all  mem- 
bers of  the  congregation  present. 

Finally  we  sang :  "  Ach  bleib  mit  deiner  Gnade  bey  wis  Herr  Jesu 
Christ,"  etc. 


TWENTY-THIRD   CONVENTION. 

1770. 


WEDNESDAY  AFTER  THE  NINETEENTH  SUNDAY 
AFTER    TRINITY. 

(October  24,  in  Reading.) 


[Nova  Acta  Historico-Ecclesiastica,  XII.   pp.  337-351 ;    also  in  Halle 
Documents,  III.  2445-56.] 

The  members  of  the  honorable  Ministerium  who  were  present  were 
the  following :  1.  Senior  Muhlenberg,  Proeses.  2.  Mr.  Krug.  3.  Mr. 
Stover.  4.  Mr.  Schultz.  5.  Mr.  Schmid.  6.  Mr.  Kurtz,  Jr.  7.  Mr. 
Schaum.  8.  Mr.  Buskerk.  9.  Mr.  Frederici.  10.  Mr.  Schwerdfeger. 
11.  Mr.  Wildban.  12.  Mr.  Kunze.  13.  Candidate  Mr.  Youug.  14. 
Mr.  Kuhn.  15.  Mr.  Streit.  16.  Mr.  Enderle.  17.  Fred.  Muhlen- 
berg.    18.  Henry  Muhlenberg.     [19.  Mr.  Voigt.1] 

Delegates,  deacons  and  elders  of  the  congregations  were  present  in 
considerable  number. 

Wednesday,  Oct.  24,  about  11  a.m.,  the  service  commenced,  which 
was  attended  by  all  the  preachers  and  delegates  present,  besides  many 
of  the  Reading  congregation.  After  the  hymn  :  "  Der  Heir  hat  Alles 
wohl  gemacht,"  etc.,  Mr.  Kunze,  who  has  lately  arrived,  preached  on 
the  words,  Isa.  57  :  19,  "I  will  create  the  fruit  of  the  lips."  After  the 
sermon  Senior  Muhlenberg  announced  another  service  for  the  following 
day,  and  the  opening  of  Synod  at  2  p.m. 

At  2  o'clock  in  the  afternoon  all  the  preachers  and  candidates 
assembled  in  the  school-house,  and  the  consultations  in  behalf  of  the 
welfare  of  the  Kingdom  of  Jesus  in  this  land  were  opened  by  prayer 
offered  by  Rev.  Voigt.  Then  an  Order  of  Business  was  prepared  in 
this  wise :  Each  member  of  the  reverend  Synod  recommended  for  con- 
sideration the  circumstance  with  which  he  was  most  closely  related.  In 
this  way  it  was  decided  to  take  up  the  following  points  in  the  presence 
of  the  Lord  :     1.  Proposition  for  a  preliminary  examination  of  one  of 

>Not  in  MS. 

121 


122  DOCUMENTARY  HISTOEY. 

the  sons  of  Senior  Muhlenberg.  2.  Concerning  the  condition  of  the  Pikes- 
town  Church.  3.  Concerning  the  matter  of  Rev.  Krug's  call  to  Fred- 
erickstown,  and  the  dissatisfaction  with  him  of  some  of  the  members  of 
the  Reading  congregation.  4.  Of  the  supplying  of  the  congregation  at 
Albany  with  a  pastor.  5.  Of  the  transfer  of  Rev.  Frederici.  6.  Of  the 
separation  of  the  Canagoge1  congregation  from  MacAllistertown.  7.  Of 
the  supplying  of  the  four  congregations — Schiiferstadt2  (or  Upper 
Heidelberg,  Warwick,3  Manheim  and  Weiseichenland4 — with  a  pastor. 
8.  Of  the  desire  of  the  Middletown  congregation  no  longer  to  be  served 
by  Mr.  Kuhn.  9.  Of  Mr.  Streit's  future  stations.  10.  Of  the  exami- 
nation and  ordination  of  the  five  candidates,  Messrs.  Young,  Kuhn, 
Streit,  Fred.  Muhlenberg  and  Hen.  Muhlenberg,  as  Diaconi  MLnisterii. 
Before  the  further  consideration  of  these  points  was  begun,  the 
honorable  elders  and  delegated  deacons  of  the  congregations  came  to 
the  preachers'  meeting,  and  called  attention  to  the  following  points: 
1.  The  congregations  of  Rosenthal,  Albany  and  Weisenburg  anxiously 
desire  a  pastor.  So  far  they  could  only  rarely  be  visited.  2.  The 
congregations  which  Mr.  Young  has  served  till  the  present,  testify- 
to  their  entire  satisfaction  with  him,  and  desire  to  retain  him.  3.  The 
congregations  of  Easton  desire  a  preacher.  4.  That  of  Tulpehocken, 
Atolheo,  Heidelberg  and  also  Nordkiel,  desires  to  join  [the  Minis- 
terium].  The  first  have  handed  in  a  written  communication.  5.  That 
of  Warwick,  with  which  Manheim  and  Weiseichenland  desire  to  be 
joined,  also  desires  a  preacher.  6.  The  delegates  from  Points  Erick, 
Thomas  Erick,  Danetown  [Taneytown]  and  Cathores  [Codorus]  give 
assurance  of  their  satisfaction  with  their  preacher.  The  congregation 
of  Danetown  wishes  to  be  united  with  the  others.  7.  The  New  Ger- 
mantowners  are  satisfied  with  their  preacher.  8.  So  also  the  Old 
Germantowners.  9.  The  congregations  of  Macunshy  and  Salisbury  like- 
wise desire  no  change.  10.  The  congregation  of  Middletown  desires  to 
retain  Mr.  Kuhn.  They  have  handed  in  a  communication.  11.  Those 
from  the  Dry  Land  have  no  complaint  to  make  against  Mr.  Frederici, 
only  to  testify  that  they  cannot  provide  for  him  sufficiently.  12.  Those 
from  Pikestown  hand  in  two  communications.  13.  Those  of  Earlstown, 
with  those  belonging  to  them,  are  satisfied  with  their  jireacher  14. 
Those  from  Bern  township  hand  in  a  communication.  15.  Those  of 
New  Providence  desire  services  every  two  weeks ;  so  far  they  have  had 
them  only  every  four  weeks.  16.  The  delegates  from  Rev.  Schaum's 
congregations  desire  services  more  frequently  than  heretofore.  17. 
Those  from  Greenwich  make  no  complaint  against  Mr.  Streit,  but  desire 

1  MS.  Canaketschick.  3  MS.  Warwitz. 

2  MS.  Schiiferstiidtlein.  i  MS.  Weiseigenland. 


TWENTY-THIRD  CONVENTION,   1770.  123 

to  be  united  with  Easton,  if  it  receives  a  pastor  of  its  own.  18.  Those 
from  New  Hanover  make  no  complaints.  19.  Those  of  Maytown  and 
the  Bishop  congregations  are  altogether  satisfied  with  Mr.  Enderle  [and 
hand  in  a  communication].  20.  Those  from  Owen's  Creek  are  satisfied 
with  Mr.  Wildban,  and  hand  in  a  communication.  21.  Those  from 
Lancaster  testily  to  their  satisfaction.  22.  Those  belongingto  the  ( lona- 
wago  St.  John's  Church,  through  the  delegates  from  Danetown,  express 
their  desire  that  Mr.  Wildban  be  left  with  them. 

After  these  points  were,  one  after  another,  quite  briefly  stand,  the 
meeting  was  closed  with  prayer  and  a  short  hymn,  and  the  delegates  in 
so  far  dismissed,  that  those  who,  either  in  regard  to  the  points  that  had 
been  presented,  or  in  respect  to  other  circumstances  which  they  did  not 
wish  to  state  publicly,  might  have  anything  further  to  say,  were  referred 
to  special  conference  with  the  President. 

The  United  Preachers  remained  together  on  account  of  many  and 
important  circumstances  until  almost  11  o'clock  at  night,  and  began  in 
the  Name  of  God  to  deliberate  upon  the  above-mentioned  points. 

I.  The  proposition  regarding  a  preliminary  examination  to  be 
arranged  for  one  of  the  sons  of  Senior  Muhlenberg,  lately  returned 
from  Halle,  was  approved  as  good  and  useful  by  all,  and  immediately 
arranged.  Mr.  Henry  Muhlenberg  appeared  and  Rev.  Voigt  acted  as 
examiner.  First  the  original  text  of  the  first  Psalm  was  translated 
into  Latin,  and  then  various  analytical  and  exegetieal  questions  were 
added  in  the  same  language,  all  of  which  were  accurately  an.--. 
The  examiner  especially  admired  his  very  evident  skill  in  the  Hebrew 
language.  The  first  chapter  of  St.  John  was  gone  through  in  the  same 
manner,  in  which  the  same  skill  and  ease  were  noticed  as  before.  Alto- 
gether, according  to  the  unanimous  testimony  of  all,  the  learning  of  this 
young  Mr.  Muhlenberg,  considering  his  age  and  the  length  of  his  stay 
in  Halle,  not  epiite  seven  years,  is  remarkable. 

II.  Next  the  Pikestown  affairs  were  considered.  First  two  letters 
from  the  two  opposing  parties  in  this  congregation  were  read.  In  the 
first  communication,  signed  by  thirty-two  names,  it  was  stated  that  the 
party  from  which  it  came,  wished  to  build  the  new  church  not  on  the 
old  place,  on  account  of  its  remoteness,  but  on  a  piece  of  ground  to  be 
bought,  and  therefore  herewith  to  request  the  Ministerium  to  consent  to 
it,  and  after  the  completion  of*  the  church,  to  appoint  a  preacher. 
Against  this  the  other  party,  whose  letter  had  sixty-six  signatures,  pro- 
1  i.  Tiny  wishi  d  to  build  the  church  on  the  old  place,  which  had 
long  been  held  for  this  purpose,  and  desired  that  the  others  should 
retrain  from  building,  and  not  weaken  their  church  in  this  way. 

this  matter  had  Wen  fully  considered,  and  many  explanations  given 


124  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

by  Rev.  Voigt,  as  lie  best  knew  the  circumstances,  from  which  explana- 
tions it  was  to  be  seen  that  a  church  btulding  now  to  be  started  on 
another  place  might  have  many  disastrous  results,  an  answer,  of  which 
the  following  are  the  chief  points,  was  given  by  the  Ministerium  :  1.  The 
congregation  should,  if  the  building  of  a  church  were  necessary,  build 
on  the  old  place.  2.  Those  living  beyond  the  France  Creek,  who 
■wished  to  undertake  another  building,  should  wait  with  it,  and  rather 
out  of  Christian  love  contribute  to  this  church.  3.  If  after  the  comple- 
tion of  this  church  those  across  the  France  Creek  also  wished  to  begin 
a  building  for  themselves,  the  Ministerium  would  promise  to  assist  them 
with  a  preacher  of  their  own  as  soon  as  possible.  4.  And  then  those  living 
on  this  side  of  the  France  Creek  should  practice  the  same  Christian 
love  and  contribute  to  the  building  of  the  new  church.  This  answer 
was  given  to  the  delegates  in  writing. 

III.  Finally  the  matter  of  the  call  of  Rev.  Krug  to  Baltimore  and 
Frederickstown  was  discussed  this  evening  in  a  preliminary  manner.  As 
the  Baltimore  people  had  no  delegate  at  Synod,  the  question  was 
simply  this  :  1.  Whether  Mr.  Krug  shall  accept  the  call  to  Fredericks- 
town,  where  the  congregation  does  not  wish  to  recognize  Mr.  Schwerd- 
feger  as  its  preacher,  or  whether,  notwithstanding  the  dissatisfaction  of 
some  members  of  the  Reading  congregation,  who,  however,  only  consti- 
tute a  small  part,  he  shall  remain  in  Reading,  in  accordance  with  the 
wishes  of  the  majority.  2.  To  which  congregation  should  Mr.  Schwerd- 
feger  be  proposed,  if  Mr.  Krug  should  accept  the  call?  Without 
further  decision  of  this  point,  the  meeting  for  this  day  was  ended,  and 
after  a  letter  of  Dr.  Knapp  to  the  Ministerium  had  been  publicly  read, 
and  the  meeting  closed  with  prayer,  the  United  Members  of  the  Minis- 
terium separated. 

Thursday,  October  25. 

To-day,  at  about  8  o'clock,  the  synod  was  again  opened  in  the 
name  of  God,  and  after  the  President  had  talked  over  various  matters 
with  the  individual  delegates  of  the  congregations,  during  which  the 
time  passed,  nothing  further  could  be  taken  up  before  the  service. 
About  11  o'clock,  therefore,  all  the  preachers  and  the  delegates,  most 
of  whom  were  yet  present,  went  to  church,  where  Rev.  Schwerdfeger 
preached  an  edifying  sermon  on  the  words  (Luke  13:  24),  "Strive  to 
enter,"  etc.  After  the  sermon,  the  President  heartily  thanked  all  those 
present  in  the  name  of  the  Ministerium,  with  so  great  emotion,  that  at 
last  a  flood  of  tears  stopped  the  voice  of  the  speaker.  In  the  afternoon, 
at  about  2  o'clock,  the  last  meeting  of  the  preachers  present  was  opened, 


TWENTY  THIRD  CONVENTION,  1770.  125 

at  which  the  beginning  was  immediately  made  of  a  further  discussion 
of  the  question  of  lie  v.  Krug's  call  to  Frederickstown. 

First  two  members  of  the  Reading  congregation  were  heard,  who 
made  known  their  desire  to  have  another  preacher  in  Mr.  Krug's  place. 
The  two  men  were  Mr.  Christ.  Friederichter  and  Mr.  Schumacher. 
Their  complaint  consisted  of  two  parts,  viz. :  1.  That  there  were  dissen- 
sions in  the  congregation,  originating  with  Mr.  Krug.  2.  They,  there- 
fore,  desired  in  regard  to  their  congregation  a  change  of  preachers  that 
there  might  be  peace. 

After  these  men  were  dismissed,  the  Ministerium  declared  that  in  the 
decision  of  this  point  the  three  following  questions  were  to  be  regarded  : 

1.  Whether  Mr.  Krug  was  of  his  own  free  will  inclined  to  go  to 
Frederickstown  ? 

2.  Whether  most  of  the  members  of  the  Reading  congregation  were 
willing  to  dismiss  him  ? 

3.  Whether  Reading  could  be  supplied  with  a  future  preacher  ? 
Ad.  I.  There  is  an  inclination,  but  with  the  condition  that  no  harm 

come  from  it  on  either  side. 

Ad.  II.  The  Church  Council  seemed  willing  to  let  Mr.  Krug  go, 
but  the  opinion  of  the  other  members  of  the  congregation  is  not  yet 
known. 

Ad.  III.  Nothing  could  yet  be  determined,  but  in  reference  to  this 
question  the  new  question  arose:  Whether  Reading  could  not  remain 
vacant  for  a  while,  if  it  (1)  would  not  keep  Mr.  Krug,  and  (2)  reject  Mr. 
Schwerdfeger  ?  In  regard  to  Mr.  Schwerdfeger,  various  Reading  people 
have  already  expressed  their  opinion,  on  which  account  it  was  not  consid- 
ered well  to  urge  him  further  upon  this  congregation.  The  decision  for 
the  present  only  is,  that  the  whole  matter  must  be  postponed  until  after 
the  congregation  has  been  more  accurately  questioned,  and  the  majority 
of  votes  in  it  ascertained,  which  shall  be  done  in  two  or  three  weeks. 
This  decision  was  put  into  writing,  signed  and  given  to  the  delegates 
from  Frederickstown. 

IV.  For  filling  the  congregations  of  Rosenthal,  Albany,  and  Weissen- 
berg,  Mr.  Schwerdfeger  was  proposed.  Mr.  Schwerdfeger  (shall  first 
visit  the  congregations  for  a  short  time,  and  then  if  the  members  a 

be)  shall  be  set  before  them  as  preacher.  Here,  a  letter  from  the  Fred- 
erickstowners  to  Senior  Muhlenberg  was  read,  which  contained  the 
reasons  why  the  congregation  desired  another  than  Mr.  Schwerdfeger. 
The  main  point  merely  was  that  before  going  to  Europe  Mr.  Schwerd- 
feger had  actually  given  up  his  call,  and  so  the  congregation  was  free 
of  him. 

V.  Concerning  the  necessary  removal  of  Mr.  Frederici  from  the  Dry 


126  DOCUMENTAKY  HISTOKY. 

Laud  to  another  place  the  following  decision  was  reached :  Since  the 
people  of  the  Dry  Land  testify  that  they  cannot  well  sustain  a  separate 
preacher,  although  they  have  no  complaint  to  make  against  their  pre- 
sent pastor,  Mr.  Frederici ;  this  congregation  could  be  most  conveniently 
served  by  him  whom  God  would  in  some  way  furnish  for  Easton,  but 
Mr.  Frederici  could  be  proposed  to  the  congregation  of  Canegogig  [MS. 
"  Canekegek  "].  Mr.  Wildban  herewith  was  commissioned  to  question 
the  Canegogig  congregation  on  this  subject,  and  make  this  explanation 
known  to  it.     Hereby  also, 

VI.  The  matter  of  the  separation  of  the  Canegogig  congregation 
from  McAllistertown  is  decided. 

VII.  Concerning  the  supplying  of  the  four  congregations,  Schafer- 
stadt,  Warwick,  Manheim  and  Weiseigenland,  no  definite  answer  could 
yet  be  given  on  account  of  the  scarcity  of  laborers. 

VIII.  The  request  of  the  Middletown  congregation  further  to  enjoy 
Mr.  Kuhn's  services  was  granted,  also  Mr.  Kuhn's  desire  to  be  freed 
from  all  other  congregations  except  that  of  Middletown,  on  account  of 
his  need  of  further  training  in  theological  knowledge.  The  Middle- 
towners  had  made  their  request  in  writing,  which  was  read. 

IX.  In  regard  to  Mr.  Streit,  it  was  decided  that  for  the  present  no 
change  be  made  in  his  station,  until  God  would  further  provide  for 
Easton  and  the  congregations  united  with  it. 

X.  In  reference  to  the  examination  and  ordination  of  the  candidates 
present,  the  President  first  set  forth  the  reasons  why  the  action  to  be 
taken  was  necessary,  the  manner  in  which  it  was  to  be  arranged,  the 
object  and  appointment  of  those  who  are  to  be  consecrated  fellow- workers, 
and  hereupon  all  consented  and  recognized  the  necessity  of  the  action. 
Only  Mr.  Kuhn  made  objection  on  his  own  behalf,  and,  in  order  further 
to  prepare  himself,  desired  to  be  allowed  as  candidate  to  continue  his 
former  services  in  preaching,  which  he  had  rendered  the  church  without 
further  assuming  regular  ministerial  functions,  and,  on  this  his  own 
request,  he  was  excluded  from  the  number  of  those  to  be  ordained.  As 
to  the  other  four,  Messrs.  Young,  Streit,  Fred,  and  Henry  Muhlenberg, 
no  further  doubt  was  raised,  1,  because  they  were  all  four  known  to  be 
active,  capable  and  skillful  workers ;  2,  because  it  was  possible  to  put 
them  in  such  places  where  they  might  at  first  be  under  good  supervision  ; 
3,  because  collaboratores  ministerii  who  could  be  sent  now  hither,  now 
thither,  were  so  necessary.  The  conditions  determined  upon  and  proposed 
to  them,  were:  1.  They  should  first  be  strictly  examined;  2,  ordained 
as  deacons  or  collaborators  of  the  Ministerium ;  3,  bound  by  the  giving 
of  a  revers.  Hereupon  the  examination  of  the  above-mentioned  candi- 
dates was  begun  in  the  name  of  the  Lord.     Mr.  Voigt  examined  first, 


TWENTY-THIRD  CONVENTION,  1770.  127 

choosing  the  article  of  Holy  Baptism,  which  was  briefly  explained  by 
means  of  questions,  proved  by  passages  of  Scripture  read  in  the  original 
text,  and  elucidated  by  the  proposing  of  many  objections.  Then  Mr. 
Krug  continued  the  examination,  first  on  the  same  article,  then  on  the 
doctrine  of  God,  His  being,  attributes,  unity,  trinity,  etc.  Then  Mr. 
Kurtz,  Jr.,  examined  somewhat  on  Original  Sin.  Most  of  this  was  in 
German.  But  finally  the  conversation  was  also  begun  in  Latin.  Then 
the  above-mentioned  four  candidates  for  the  ministry  were  ordained  in 
the  name  of  the  Triune  God  to  the  holy  office  of  the  ministry,  into 
which  tluy  were,  after  giving  a  revers,  solemnly  received  under  the 
name  of  collaboratoresmini*t>  rii,  in  the  presence  of,  and  with  the  consent 
and  the  laying  on  of  hands  of  all  the  members  of  the  Ministerium,  the 
main  ceremony  being  performed  by  Rev.  Mr.  Yoigt.  Finally  each 
added  a  congratulation,  and  the  act  was  concluded  with  prayer  and 
singing.  Immediately  after  the  ordinations,  the  preachers  held  an 
edifying  conversation  with  one  another  concerning  the  most  certain 
signs  of  conversion  to  God,  and  the  workings  of  grace,  which  was 
not  without  its  benefits. 

As,  in  considering  the  matters  at  first  proposed  by  the  preachers,  most 
of  the  points  brought  up  by  the  delegates  were  included,  only  a  little 
remained  for  consideration,  namely  the  following : 

1.  The  Tulpehocken  congregational  circumstances  were  discussed. 
From  that  place  a  call  had  been  sent  to  the  President  of  the  Ministerium, 
and  in  it  most  earnest  request  made  for  his  own  person,  or  if  that  were 
impossible,  at  least  another  experienced  servant  of  God.  This  call  was 
read  ;  the  opinion  of  all  the  assembled  preachers  was,  that,  1,  Senior 
Muhlenberg  could  not  possibly  leave  Philadelphia.  2.  Rev.  Schultz 
could  best  accept  this  call.  Mr.  Schultz  asked  for  quiet  consideration 
in  prayer  before  God  before  answering. 

-.  In  regard  to  the  request  of  the  Providence  congregation  to  have 
preaching  every  two  weeks,  the  Ministerium  made  these  propositions: 
1.  Barren  Hill  and  Pikestown  shall,  as  soon  as  possible,  be  served  by  a 
separate  preacher,  and  then  Mr.  Voigt  will  preach  in  Providence  every 
two  weeks.  2.  The  Ministerium  thinks  it  proper  that  the  congregation 
place  itself  upon  a  better  footing  as  to  the  sustenance  of  the  preacher, 
and  duly  pay  what  is  necessary.  This  decision  was  written,  and  given 
to  the  delegates  of  the  Pikestown  congregation. 

3.  A  letter  from  Owen's  Creek  was  read,  in  which  the  congregation 
most  earnestly  requested  that  Mr.  Wildban  be  left  with  them,  since  he 

rving  them  well.     This  was  granted. 

4.  The  place  for  the  next  Conference  was  decided  upon,  viz.,  Phila- 
delphia. 


128  DOCUMENTAEY  HISTORY 

5.  Sen.  Miihienberg  was  again  chosen  President.  All  this  was  closed 
with  prayer  and  thanksgiving,  led  by  Rev.  Mr.  Stover,  and  the  Synod 
ended  in  the  name  of  God. 

"  Lord,  we  wait  for  Thy  salvation !  " 


TWENTY-FOURTH   CONVENTION. 
1771. 

(Sept.  22,  23,  Philadelphia.) 


[Hallesche  Nachrichtest,  o.  e.  1338  f. ;  n.  e.  II.  685  f.    Mr.  Helmuth  to  Dr. 
Knapp,  Dec.  5,  1771.] 

In  closing,  I  must  report  something  which  is  very  pleasing  and 
encouraging  to  me,  and  from  which  I  promise  myself  much  blessing : 
Last  Summer  I  conversed  with  an  honorable  preacher  of  a  neighboring 
German  Reformed  congregation.  He  talked  of  many  circumstances 
concerning  the  Kingdom  of  Jesus.  Among  other  things  our  conversa- 
tion turned  to  the  following :  How  edifying  it  would  be  for  the  congre- 
gations and  encouraging  for  the  ministers,  if  they  assembled  more 
frequently  than  has  thus  far  been  customary.  We  determined  that  at 
the  next  Synodical  meeting,  he  would  propose  the  matter  to  the  Reformed 
and  I  to  the  Lutherans.  Our  plan  was  as  follows :  The  Conferences 
ought  to  be  held  quarterly,  and  only  by  those  preachers  who  live  nearest 
together.  Further,  they  should  differ  from  the  General  Conferences 
[Synodical  meetings]  in  this,  that  they  ought  to  be  directed  not  so  much 
toward  the  external  conditions  in  the  congregations,  as  to  edification 
and  fraternal  encouragement. 

Our  Synodical  meeting  fell  upon  the  following  23d  of  Sept.,  1771.  I 
brought  up  the  matter.  It  was  approved  and  agreed  to,  as  things 
should  be  in  such  meetings.  What  has  been  mentioned  above  was 
agreed  upon,  yet  much  more  was  determined,  and  appointed,  as,  e.  g.y 
which  of  the  neighboring  preachers  could  best  come  together  thus  for 
mutual  encouragement,  and  that  those  in  whose  congregation  the  meet- 
ing was  held,  should  keep  the  minutes,  and  a  copy  should  be  sent  to  the 
President  of  the  time,  that  he  might  read  them  at  the  General  Conference. 


TWENTY-FIFTH   CONVENTION. 

1772. 

(Sept.  27-29,  Lancaster.) 


[Muhlenberg  Journal,  I.  24,  p.  3  IT.] 

Sunday,  Sept.  27.  In  the  forenoon,  the  preachers  present  went  in 
procession  to  church,  where  there  was  singing  and  prayer,  and  the  ser- 
vice was  attended  to  in  good  order,  harmony  and  devotion.  Mr. 
M b ,  the  elder,  preached  on  the  words  (Matth.  10  :  32),  "Who- 
soever therefore  shall  confess  me  before  men,"  etc.;  "Of  the  glorious 
fruit  of  the  confession  of  Jesus  Christ,"  1,  wherein  the  confession  con- 
sists, and,  2,  what  its  fruit  is.  In  the  afternoon  President  Sen.  Kurtz 
preached  on  Matth.  11 :  28  :  "  Come  unto  me,  all  ye,"  etc. ;  "  Of  the 
blessedness  of  the  true  Christianity."  His  sermon  was  delivered 
with  great  force  and  animation.  In  the  evening  P.  Kuntze  preached 
on  [II]  Tim.  2:8:  "  Remember  Jesus  Christ,"  etc.;  " Of  the  remem- 
brance of  Jesus,  the  Risen  One,"  and  gave  1,  an  exposition  of  the  text 
and  context ;  2,  an  exposition  of  this  remembrance,  and  3,  a  descrip- 
tion of  persons  who  are  capable  of  remembering ;  exegetical.  instructive, 
convincing  and  charming.  The  audience  at  all  three  services  to-day 
was  very  large,  orderly,  attentive.  Each  service  was  closed  with  vocal 
and  instrumental  music  by  the  choir. 

Monday,  Sept.  28,  in  the  forenoon,  there  was  again  a  meeting  and 
public  service  in  the  church,  where  Rev.  Bager  delivered  a  beautiful, 
well- conceived,  logical  and  edifying  discourse  on  Heb.  13  :  1 :  "  Let 
brotherly  love  continue."  1.  Wherein  it  consists;  2.  How  it  is  to  be 
continued? 

After  service  the  teachers  present  assembled  in  the  upper  school-house 
room,  and  were  the  following : 

1.  Mr.  Kurtz,  Sen.,  President,  from  Yorktown. 

2.  "  Muhlenberg,  Sen.,  from  Philadelphia, 

3.  "  Gneranson,  Swedish  P.,  WlCfiB. 

4.  "  Krug,  preacher  from  Frederickstown. 

5.  "  Kurtz,  .Tun.,  from  Earltown. 

6.  "  Schultz,  from  Tulpehockm. 

7.  "  Helmuth,  P.  L ,  from  Lancaster. 

9  129 


130  DOCUMENTARY  HISTOEY. 

8.  Mr.  Sckrnitt,  from  Gerrnantown. 

9.  "     Kuntze,  from  Philadelphia. 

10.  "  Bager,  from  Canewage. 

11.  "  Fred.  Muhlenberg,  from  Warwick. 

12.  "  Frederici,  from  Allentown. 

13.  "  Schwerdfeger,  from  L.  T. 

14.  "  Streit,  from  Eastown. 

15.  "  Roeller,  from  Gosschehoppe. 

16.  "  Wildban,  from  McCallistertown. 

17.  "  Schwarbach,  from  Virginia. 

18.  "  Ed ,  from  Eliesasabethtown  [sic.]. 

MEMBERS   ABSENT. 

1.  Mr.  Voigt,  preacher  at  New  Hanover. 

2.  "  Gerock,  preacher  at  Nuyorck  [sic]. 

3.  "  Schaum,  preacher  on  Rocky  Hill. 

4.  "  Buskerk,  preacher  in  Macunshy. 

5.  "  Jung,  preacher  in  Whitehall. 

6.  "  H.  Muhlenberg,  collab.,  in  Philadelphia. 

Some  of  the  absent  brethren  had  excused  themselves,  and  some  also 
had  not ;  for  such  journeys  to  meetings  of  this  kind  require  inclination 
and  good  will  toward  the  whole  matter,  health,  time,  strength  of  body, 
clothing,  horses,  traveling  expenses,  etc. ,  and  the  tenth  does  not  always 
know  where  the  shoe  pinched  the  other  eleven. 

Before  the  first  session,  the  matters  to  be  discussed  were  first  generally 
arranged  and  numbered,  in  the  order  in  which  they  should  follow  each 
other ;  for  the  delegates  from  the  congregations  awaited  anxiously,  that 
they  might  soon  be  dismissed,  and  start  on  their  journeys  homeward. 
After  this  was  completed,  all  the  preachers  were  taken  to  a  house,  where 
the  honorable  Church  Council  of  Lancaster  had  a  dinner,  or  rather  a 
feast  prepared,  to  which  also  the  preacher  of  the  English  Episcopal 
church  was  invited.  Several  honored  members  of  the  Church  Council 
graciously  and  pleasantly  waited  on  table,  and  the  repast  was  partaken 
of  in  pleasant  harmony  with  thanksgiving  to  God.  During  the  meal 
nothing  was  heard  of  religious  disputes  or  differences  of  opinions,  but 
they  were  all  healthy,  gifted  with  good  appetites  and  benevolence,  had 
one  heart  and  one  stomach,  and  felt  that  God  had  satisfied  them 
with  pleasure. 

After  they  had  given  thanks  to  God,  who  is  so  gracious,  and  had  sung 
several  stanzas  of  a  hymn  of  praise,  they  went  into  the  school-house 
room,  where  the  delegates  of  the  congregations  also  attended,  and  the 
business  was  transacted  as  follows : 


TWENTY-FIFTH  CONVENTION,  1772.  131 

1.  The  Protocol  of  the  Synodical  meeting  of  last  year  was  presented 
for  examination. 

2.  A  most  favorable  letter  of  great  importance  from  the  Revd. 
Director,  Doctor  and  Professor  Freilinghausen,  directed  to  the  United 
Evangelical  Ministerium  in  Pennsylvania,  etc.,  was  read,  and  unani- 
mously resolved,  that  it  be  answered  with  due  and  humble  thankfulness 
in  the  name  of  the  entire  Ministeriuin  by  the  Rev.  President,  or  one 
whom  he  may  appoint  for  this. 

3.  The  delegates  present  were  asked  whether  they  had  any  complaints 
to  make  against  their  respective  teachers  and  preachers.  As  many  as  were 
present  had  nothing  to  complain  of,  but  requested  that  they  might  retain 
their  pastors,  and  that  no  changes  or  transfers  might  be  made.  The  Presi- 
dent now  granted  these  delegates  permission  either  to  stay  if  they  wished, 
or  to  return  home,  and  bear  to  their  congregations  from  the  Ministerium 
hearty  greetings  and  wishes  of  blessing. 

4.  A  delegate  from  the  Indianfield  congregation  asked  both  orally  and 
in  writing,  whether  their  congregation  might  not  be  joined  with  the  con- 
gregations in  Old  and  New  Goschehoppen,  and  be  served  from  those  places 

every  third  Sunday  by  our  united  fellow-laborer,  Rev.  R ?   They  had 

hoped  indeed  to  unite  with  other  vacant  neighboring  congregations,  and 
to  receive  a  preacher  of  their  own  from  the  United  Ministerium,  but  as 
the  vacant  congregations  had  not  yet  come  to  an  agreement,  they  would 
prefer  to  be  served  by  our  colleague  from  Goschehoppen,  etc  Much 
was  said  and  deliberated  concerning  the  circumstances,  and  finally  it 
was  resolved,  that  a  written  statement  be  sent  to  the  Goschehoppen  con- 
gregations and  they  be  petitioned  to  unite  the  forsaken  Indianfield 
congregation  with  their  own,  and  permit  it  to  be  served  by  their  teacher. 
Such  a  recommendation  was  put  into  writing,  and  was  given  the  dele- 
gate to  be  delivered,  and  also  verbal  information  was  sent  that  the 
remaining  vacant  congregations  on  the  Tohecka  could  not  at  present  be 
cared  for. 

5.  The  delegates  of  the  congregation,  or  filial  of  New  Providence  and 
New  Hanover  in  Peikstown,  then  came  forward  ;  the  congregation  from 
the  beginning  was  considered  a  filial,  and,  at  times,  served  from  Provi- 
dence or  other  places,  since  it  is  situated  only  seven  miles  from  Provi- 
dence and  twelve  miles  from  Hanover.  But  because  the  congregation 
in  Peikstown  is  increasing,  and  after  my  removal  the  congregation  in 
Providence  has  decreased,  and  Pastor  Voigt  can  only  serve  the  congre- 
gation in  Providence  on  the  fourth  Sunday,  and  that  in  Peikstown  also 
on  the  fourth  Sunday,  coming  from  Hanover,  the  people  of  Provl 
have  always  complained  that  their  congregation  was  diminishing,  and 
would  finally  go  to  nothing,  because  there  was  no  preacher  living  at  that 


132  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

place,  and  the  fourth  Sunday  was  not  sufficient.  But  the  congregation 
at  Peikstown,  with  its  fourth  Sunday,  has  become  so  numerous  that  their 
first  frame  church  can  no  longer  hold  the  audience.  Those  members, 
therefore,  who  live  from  four  to  six  miles  from  Peikstown,  across  a 
stream  of  water,  called  Frantzkrick,  before  it  was  suspected,  came  to 
the  sudden  conclusion  that  they  also  would  build  a  frame  church.  Seeing, 
therefore,  that  they,  so  to  say,  have  swarmed  away  from  the  first  Peiks- 
town bee-hive,  and  have  attached  themselves  to  the  new  hive  across  the 
Frantzkrick,  the  question  arises  whether  they  can  be  cared  for  in  the 
new  hive,  or  shall  be  left  to  the  roving  birds  of  prey.  Now  they  desire 
that  the  people  of  Peikstown  shall  share  the  fourth  Sunday  with  them, 
and  that  Rev.  Mr.  Voigt  shall  hold  service  in  the  forenoon  in  Peikstown, 
and  in  the  afternoon  across  the  Frantzkrick,  and  so  on  alternately. 
Delegates  from  both  parties  were  present,  and  presented  their  reasons, 
and  much  was  said  on  the  subject,  but  good  counsel  is  always  dear. 
They  from  Frantzkrick  also  requested  that  their  new  church  be  conse- 
crated in  four  weeks.  If  we  cannot  and  will  not  help  them,  then 
drunken  vagabonds  will  come,  and  destroy  young  and  old,  and  very 
likely  also  contaminate  neighboring  herds,  for  the  evil  always  finds  an 
easier  entrance  than  the  good.  Since  Rev.  Mr.  Voigt  was  not  present, 
the  delegates  of  both  parties  were  dismissed  with  the  promise  that  the 
Ministerium  would  write  to  Mr.  Voigt,  and  ask  him  to  investigate  the 
matter  more  thoroughly. 

6.  The  matter  of  the  call  from  Liineburg  in  Nova  Scotia  came  up. 
It  appears  already  from  the  Protocol  of  the  last  year's  Synodical  Con- 
ference, that  the  German  Reformed  in  Liineburg  have  separated  from 
the  English  Episcopal  Church,  built  a  church  for  themselves  according 
to  their  constitution,  and  taken  a  preacher,  and  that  the  German  Luth- 
erans followed  their  example,  and  also  built  a  church,  and  for  years 
already  have  requested  our  Ministerium  again  and  again  by  petitions  and 
prayers  for  a  preacher  in  accord  with  the  Unaltered  Augsburg  Confes- 
sion, and  that  at  the  Conference  of  1771  Mr.  Wildbahn  promised  to  try 
the  place  in  the  Spring  of  1772.  But  when  the  Spring  of  1772  came, 
his  six,  seven,  or  eight  scattered  congregations  positively  refused  to  let 
him  go,  and  since  a  delegate  was  here  in  the  Spring  to  accompany  Mr. 
W — b —  to  Liineburg,  and  the  report  came  that  Mr.  W — b —  could  not 
keep  his  promise,  the  man  went  away  sad  and  chagrined,  going  to  New 
Yoi*k,  and,  as  P.  Gerock  informed  me,  writing  from  New  York  Sept.  8, 
A.  C,  the  man  had  found  the  still-living,  little  Mr.  Friederich  Schultz, 
who  long  ago  had  been  sent,  together  with  Mr.  Heintzelman,  to  aid  us, 
had  extended  the  call  to  him,  and  received  the  promise,  that  he  would 
go  with  him  immediately  to  try  Liineburg.  This  report  from  Mr. 
Gerock's  letter  I  communicated  to  the  Ministerium. 


TWENTY-FIFTH  CONVENTION,  1772.  133 

With  this  and  many  other  tedious  matters  which  had  been  brought 
up,  the  afternoon  was  spent,  and  the  evening  was  at  hand.  .Service 
was  again  arranged  for  in  the  church.  P.  Schultz  preached  on  I 
Thessalouians  4 :  7, 8 :  "  God  hath  not  called  us  unto  uncleanness,"  etc. 
Of  the  great  guilt  of  those  ivho  neglect  the  saving  matters  of  repen 
and  faith:  1.  How  it  is  presented  to  us.  2.  The  great  guilt  of  the  be- 
trayers.    Synthetical,  stirring,  and  edifying. 

Tuesday,  Sept.  29.  Forenoon  and  afternoon,  there  was  still  much 
business.  1.  In  the  morning  session  the  matter  of  the  dispute  in  the 
congregation  in  Lebanon  was  taken  up,  which  is  too  extended  to  be 
here   described.     The    congregation    has    divided    into   two   parties; 

the  minor  party  adheres  to  Rev.  St ,  and  assumes  right  and  authority 

over  the  half-built  church,  and  whoever  cannot  and  will  not  side  with 

Mr.  St is  denied  a  right  in  the  church  and  cemetery.     On  the  one 

side  the  Zinzendorfians,  who  have  an  organization  near  here,  watch  dili- 
gently ;  on  the  other  side,  the  vagabonds  prowl  around,  and  seek  to  fish 
in  the  muddy  water.  The  major  part  of  the  congregation  has  for  years 
earnestly  requested  the  Ministerium,  that  their  grievances  against  Mr. 

St might  be  heard  and  investigated,  and  decided.     But  this  could 

not  be  accomplished  otherwise,  ut  et  audiretur  altera  pars,  and  this  not 
without  mutual  consent,  for  the  Ministerium  has  no  authoritative  power, 
consequently  it  must  have  been  decided  before  the  governmental  author- 
ity by  a  formal  process,  and  the  laws  of  this  country  have  nothing  to  do 
with  religious  disputes  or  questions  of  the  law.  And  if  two  parties 
desire  to  decide  a  matter  of  dispute  by  arbitration,  both  parties  must 
give  their  consent,  and  obligate  themselves  in  writing,  that  they  will 
yield  to  the  arbitrators  they  have  chosen.  The  Ministerium  offered  such 
an  arbitration,  and  the  complaining  party  was  very  willing  to  accede, 

but  Mr.  St is  said  to  have  answered,  he  did  not  want  to  be  judged 

by  the  stable-boys,  etc.  Finally  he  consented,  and  a  committee  was 
appointed  by  the  Ministerium  to  investigate,  and  was  sent  to  Lebanon. 
But  he  was  unwilling  to  obligate  himself  to  receive  their  decision,  ami 
so  the  whole  meeting  and  transaction  had  the  same  form  as  an  irregular 
Polish  ;'  Reichstag."     The  committee,  therefore,  upon  the  earn 

of  the  major  party,  found  reason  to  advise  Fr M to  accept  of 

and  serve  them,  because  he  lived  nearest.     But  Mr.  St behaved,  as 

the  fable  says,  like  the  dog  on  the  hay-stack;  he  could  not  enjoy  the  hay 
himself,  and  did  not  want  to  let  the  cow  near.  Briefly,  since  he  would 
not  give  1 1  [i  the  church,  our  people  spoke  to  the  Reformed,  asking  them  for 
permission  to  use  their  church,  and  were  there  served  by  Frederick 
Muhlenberg,  now  and  then,  as  his  other  congregational  enj 
mitted  him.     But  what  the  delegate-  of  the  larger  party  wanted  this 


134  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

time  consisted  of  two  points :  (a)  that  we  should  exclude  Mr.  St 

from  the  United  Ministerium,  (b)  or  consent  that  they  might  open  the 
Lutheran  church  forcibly  and  hold  their  services  in  it.  Neither  of 
these  was  the  Ministerium  willing  to  grant  and  advise,  but  resolved  to 

send  a  letter  to  Mr.  St ,  and  in  it  remonstrate  with  him,  that  it 

might  be  well  to  open  the  church  to  the  large  party  opposed  to  him,  to 
be  used  on  those  Sundays  when  he  with  his  small  party  did  not  use  it, 
and  at  his  pleasure  he  might  retain  the  right  in  it  when  the  others  had 
no  service. 

2.  Several  delegates  from  Reading  handed  to  the  Ministerium  a 
letter  signed  by  various  names,  and  also  declared  their  request  orally, 
namely :  After  P.  Krug  moved  from  Reading  to  Frederickstown,  in 
Maryland,  some  hostile  persons  who  were  embittered  against  P.  Krug 
and  the  United  Ministerium,  had  obtained  possession  of  the  church  and 
appurtenances,  by  all  means  subtle  and  otherwise  had  drawn  the  unin- 
telligent multitude  to  their  side,  and  taken  a  self-constituted  preacher, 
who  was  not  rightfully  ordained,  and  had  resolved  that  none  belonging  to 
the  United  Ministerium  should  be  permitted  to  preach  in  the  church  • 
and  that  whoever  would  not  hold  to  them  (the  irregular  crowd),  and 
their  preacher,  should  have  no  share  in  the  church  and  burial  place,  etc. 
Since  twenty  heads  of  families  remain  who  received  blessing  to  their  souls 
from  P.  Krug's  services,  have  always  held  to  the  United  Ministerium, 
and  wish  to  hold  to  it,  and  therefore  have  until  now  endured  countless 
slanders,  abuse  and  persecution,  and  must  even  do  without  the  means  of 
grace,  because  they  will  not  bow  the  knee  before  Baal,  etc.,  so  the  ques- 
tion of  conscience  is  herewith  put  to  the  Rev.  Ministerium,  whether 
they  can  and  shall  conscientiously  remain  unvisited  and  unserved  ? 
They,  therefore,  desire  and  petition  that  the  United  Ministerium  help 
them,  and  visit  them  alternately,  hold  service  in  the  court-house  about 
every  two  weeks,  and  thereby  furnish  the  means  of  grace  until  the  rude 
people  come  to  their  senses,  and  their  leaders  again  become  reasonable, 
etc.  The  Ministerium  debated  a  long  time,  and  finally  decided,  that  the 
forsaken  and  persecuted  souls  must  be  assisted  for  conscience  sake,  but 
the  question  was :  Who  can,  who  shall,  who  will  do  it  ?  it  will  cause 
abuse  and  suffering,  and  each  member  of  the  Ministerium  has  almost 
more  trouble  than  he  can  carry ;  most  of  the  members  live  far  away, 
etc.  The  delegates  urgently  requested  that  P.  Krug,  seeing  that  he  was 
so  near,  be  appointed  and  ordered  by  the  Ministerium  to  go  with  them, 
and  preach  next  Sunday  in  the  court-house  at  Reading.  P.  Krug  was 
also  very  willing  to  do  so,  if  it  be  advised  and  approved  by  the  Minis- 
terium. But  it  was  not  at  all  considered  advisable,  since  without  any 
blame  on  his  part,  he  has  already  been  the  apple  of  discord  there,  and 


TWENTY-FIFTH   CONVENTION,   1772.  136 

his  visit  might  only  increase  the  bitterness.  Finally  the  votes  fell  upon 
P.  Kuntze,  that  as  a  courageous  and  fresh  hero,  he  should  bring  of  the 
water  of  the  well  at  Bethlehem.     I  Chron.  12  [11]  :  17,  18. 

He  also  immediately  declared  that  lie  was  willing  and  ready  to  do  it 
if  Pastor  Krug  would  in  the  meantime  go  to  Philadelphia,  and  on  next 
Sunday  assist  young  Henry  Muhlenberg  in  conducting  the  service  there. 
To  this  he  assented,  and  since  delegates  were  present  who  requested  that 
they  might  also  share  in  the  alternating  visits  of  the  Ministerium  in 
Reading,  because  one  small  congregation  is  seven  miles,  and  the  other 
twelve  miles  distant  from  that  place,  and  the  latter  was  formerly  served 
by  P.  Krug  from  Reading  as  a  filial,  they  were  promised  that  Dr. 
Kuntze,  D.  V.,  would  preach  on  next  Friday  in  one  filial,  on  Saturday 
in  the  other,  and  on  Sunday  in  Reading,  and  other  neighboring  members 
of  the  Ministerium  would  continue  the  visits  alternately. 

3.  A  delegate  appeared  from  vacant  congregations  in  a  region  situated 
between  the  boundaries  of  Pennsylvania  and  Virginia  in  Maryland,  and 
called  by  the  Indian  name  Cannegotschick.  These  congregations  Sen. 
Kurtz  visited  now  and  then,  and  administered  to  them  the  means  of 
grace.  This  district  is  said  to  be  very  populous  and  to  abound  in  various 
sorts  of  sectarian  agitators.  The  delegate  presented  a  petition  for  an 
able  teacher  and  pastor,  and  said  to  me  privately  that  they  desired  the 
older  Mr.  Kurtz ;  but  if  this  could  not  be,  they  would  like  to  have 
Friederich  Muhlenberg  or  the  younger  Mr.  Kurtz.  I  answered  him 
that  my  son  Friederich  already  lived  eighty  miles  from  me,  and  if  he 
should  go  much  farther,  I  could  expect  little  or  no  assistance  from  him 
in  my  weary  old  age.  He  should  only  make  no  report  of  it.  The 
President  proposed  his  brother,  Mr.  Kurtz,  Jun.,  which  is  quite  natural 
and  kind,  if  one  cares  for  his  own,  and  can  at  the  same  time  help  the 
public  interests.  We  all  agreed  to  the  proposition,  and  Mr.  Kurtz 
accepted  it  on  the  following  conditions :  (a)  He  would  first  visit  the  con- 
gregations and  learn  whether  they  all  would  vote  for  him,  because  small 
success  is  to  be  expected,  if  the  audience  have  no  affection  for  a 
teacher,  (b)  Much  depended  upon  the  consent  of  the  members  of  the 
Ministerium,  which  must  be  given,  (c)  If  his  present  congregations 
were  willing,  and  could  again  be  supplied  with  a  pastor  in  his  place. 
The  Ministerium  gave  its  unanimous  approval,  and  decided  that  Mr. 

Schw be  proposed  in  the   congregations  of  Mr.  Kurtz,  Jun.     A 

letter  was  also  dispatched  to  the  congregations  in  Cannegotschick,  in 
which  it  was  reported  that  Mr.  Kurtz,  Jun.,  would  come  up  in  four 
weeks,  D.  V.,  and  would  make  a  trial. 

4.  A  letter  from  the  Church  Council  of  the  High  German  congrega- 
tion in  New  York,  sent  to  the  United  Ministerium  here,  was  read,  in 


136  DOCUMENTARY   HISTORY. 

which  they  requested  that  an  exchange  might  be  effected  with  their 
preacher,  etc.,  because  their  congregation  was  weak,  poor,  and,  in  addi- 
tion, still  in  debt  on  account  of  the  church  building,  and  could  no 
longer  raise  the  salary  promised  for  a  preacher  with  a  family.  The 
preacher  of  that  place  had  also  sent  a  letter,  and  in  it  had  excused  him- 
self in  a  friendly  manner,  that  because  of  the  invitation  he  would  gladly 
have  attended,  but  because  of  the  great  distance,  the  number  of  the 
sick  and  of  funerals  in  his  congregation,  and  also  of  the  lack  of  money 
to  pay  traveling  expenses,  he  could  not  be  present,  but  he  requested 
that  the  Rev.  Ministerium  keep  in  mind  his  circumstances,  and  effect  a 
change  of  pastorates  for  him  before  Winter.  The  members  of  the 
Ministerium  considered  it  necessary  and  advisable  to  propose  and 
recommend  him  to  the  vacant  congregations  at  New  Germantown  and 
Bedminster  in  Jersey.  Since  he  at  any  rate  let  it  be  understood,  that 
he  might  labor  and  remain  in  this  part  of  the  world  only  a  few  years 
more,  and  then  return  with  his  family  to  Europe,  his  Fatherland,  and 
as  the  aged  Mb himself  could  no  longer  serve  the  Jersey  congrega- 
tions, and  also  could  no  longer  let  his  sons  serve  there,  it  might  suit 
well  for  our  brother,  who  is  so  anxious  to  leave  New  York.  Pastor 
Schmidt  from  Germantown  was  asked  whether  he  was  willing  to  exchange 
with  the  brother  in  New  York.  He  answered  :  Yes,  if  the  congrega- 
tions were  on  both  sides  satisfied,  he  had  no  objections.  Since  the 
congregations  in  Jersey  have  the  right  of  electing  their  preacher  by  a 
majority  of  votes,  they  intended  to  propose  Mr.  Schmidt  beside  another 
[candidate]  for  election.  But  he  was  unwilling,  because  be  would  be 
incapacitated  for  the  amount  of  riding  that  would  be  needed.  Our 
blessed  Father  Luther  had  to  ride  to  Worms  without  breeches  and 
boots,  [?]  and  if  we  will  be  really  Lutheran,  we  must  also  learn  to  do  the 
same,  or  we  shall  not  be  regarded  orthodox. 

5.  Our  country  preacher,  Mr.  Schwb ,  from  Virginia,  complained 

that  he  was  getting  older  and  weaker,  and  was  troubled  so  much  by  far- 
distant  congregations  in  Virginia,  that  he  was  expected  to  visit  and  serve 
them  fifty,  sixty,  seventy,  eighty  to  one  hundred  miles  away,  but  could 
not  endure  it.  Up  to  the  present  time,  he  still  dwells  in  Culpepper,  in 
the  congregation  which  the  late  P.  Klug  served,  and  which  many  years 
ago  sent  collectors  to  Europe  and  gathered  some  thousand  pounds,1 
which  they  brought  along,  and  for  it  they  bought  an  estate,  and  pro- 
cured negro  slaves  to  work  the  land,  and  sustained  the  preacher  from 
its  products.  He  said  that  he  lived  on  a  portion  of  this  church  pro- 
perty, and  the  rest,  together  with  the  slaves,  the  deacons  of  the  congre- 
gation had  rented  out,  and  received  £50  rent  yearly,  which  £50  they 

1  Transcript  of  Collection  Book  in  part,  in  Archives  of  Ministerium. 


TWENTY- FIFTH   CONVENTION,    J  772.  137 

gave  him  for  salary,  but  he  could  not  live  on  that,  and  requested 
that  we  admonish  the  deacons  and  elders,  that  they  contribute  some: 
thing  in  the  congregation,  and  also,  if  possible,  appoint  :i  young  assistant, 
who  could  serve  the  far-distant  congregations,  then  he  would  remain  in 
this  old  congregation  alone. 

The  Ministerium  resolved,  that  a  letter  be  addressed  to  Peter  Muhlen- 
berg, who  lives  only  sixty  miles  away,  with  the  request  that  he  go  thither 
to  investigate  the  circumstances  and  report  on  the  subject. 

6.  A  delegate  from  a  small  congregation  requested  that  they  might 
now  and  then  be  served  by  Friedr.  Muhlenberg,  because  it  is  only  seven 
miles  from  Manheim,  and  the  region  is  called  " Mondschezn,"  as  the 
delegate  said.  The  otherwise  shrewd  old  Germans  spoil  the  English 
language,  and  in  time  produce  a  third,  which  is  neither  English  nor 
German.  The  region  is  said  to  be  also  called  in  English  Mount  Joy 
(Frcudenbcrg),  and  from  this  our  Germans  get  "  Mondschein,"  because 
the  sound  is  somewhat  similar,  as  they  also  call  the  King's  Agent,  viz., 
in  English  King's  Attorney,  the  King's  "Saturnus,"  because  they  find 
the  word  in  the  calendar,  and  the  sound  is  almost  identical  with  "Attor- 
ney." If  then  the  German  preachers  do  not  learn  the  English  to  some 
extent,  they  very  readily  fall  into  the  third  language,  from  the  "  Mond- 
schein "  into  the  "  Saturnus." — The  proposition  was  referred  to  Friedr. 
Muhlenberg ;  because  his  little  congregations  already  are  far  apart,  he 
has  much  riding  to  do,  and  at  times  must  ride  as  gorgeously  as  Dr. 
Luther  to  "Worms. 

7.  Letters  from  certain  small  English  congregations  were  handed  in 
and  read,  in  which  they  earnestly  requested  that  they  might  occasionally 
be  visited  and  be  provided  with  the  meaus  of  grace  by  our  brother,  Mr. 
Streit,  of  Easttown.  It  wTas  resolved  in  this  matter,  to  send  a  letter  to 
the  Easttown  elders  and  deacons,  which  was  done. 

Since  now  the  day  was  spent  with  the  above  and  similar  arduous 
business,  we  hastened  to  the  end,  and  unanimously  re-elected  by  a 
majority  of  votes,  Mr.  Kurtz,  Sen.,  as  Prreses  Ministerii,  and  resolved 
that,  D.  V.,  the  next  Synodical  Meeting  be  held  in  Philadelphia, 

The  need  of  a  better  plan  for  future  Synodical  Meetings,  and  of  a 
code  of  rules,  was  also  suggested.  Formerly  I  used  only  general  rules 
:  ding  to  the  circumstances  of  the  time  and  conditions,  and  thought, 

with  Jacob  (Gen.  33:  13,  14),  "My  Lord  knoweth  that  the  children 
are  tender,  and  the  flocks  and  herds  with  young  arc  with  me  ;  and  if 
men  should  overdrive  them  one  day,  all  the  flock  will  die."  However, 
it  is  well  and  right  to  prepare  an  Order  better  suited  to  the  circum- 
stances. It  were  foolish,  if  a  poor  father  were  to  insist  that  his  children 
of  twenty  to  thirty  years  old  should  still  wear  such  clothes  as  only  suit 


138  DOCUMENTARY  HISTOEY. 

for  children  three,  six,  nine  years  old.  I  requested  Pastor  Kuntze  to  be 
so  kind  as  to  outline  a  better  plan  together  with  suitable  rules,  in  order 
to  accomplish  so  necessary,  beneficial  and  useful  an  object. 

After  the  meeting  was  dismissed  by  the  President  with  prayer 
and  singing,  we  went  to  the  church  in  the  evening  and  heard  the  Swedish 
pastor  Goeransson  preach  in  English  on  Luke  5 : 1-11.  He  first  explained 
the  text,  making  annotations  and  drawing  instructive  porismata,  and 
finally  treated  very  clearly  the  main  doctrine  of  the  fishing  of  men. 
He  showed,  1,  the  entire  profession,  science,  practice,  exposition,  wisdom, 
shrewdness,  advantages,  etc.,  in  which  the  fisher  of  men  must  be  well 
experienced  and  practiced ;  2,  the  many  kinds  of  fish,  their  serpent-like 
tricks,  places  of  concealment,  wiles,  and  movements,  to  escape  the  net, 
or  to  tear  through  it  when  already  caught  in  it,  or  also  artfully  to  eat 
the  worm  from  the  hook,  without  swallowing  the  hook,  or  if  they  have 
already  swallowed  the  hook,  to  bite  off  the  line,  and  escape  with  the 
swallowed  hook,  etc.  In  a  word,  it  was  very  instructive,  ingenious  and 
suggestive  for  preacher  and  hearers,  for  fisher  and  fish,  who  understood 
English.  After  the  sermon,  Pastor  Helmuth  stepped  before  the  altar, 
offered  an  impressive  prayer,  rendered  most  humble  thanks  to  the  Highest 
Benefactor  in  the  name  of  our  Most  High  Advocate  and  Mediator, 
Jesus  Christ,  for  the  immeasurable  love,  goodness,  grace,  mercy,  long- 
suffering  and  patience,  toward  all  children  of  men,  toward  His  entire 
Kingdom  of  Grace,  in  all  parts  of  the  inhabited  world,  prayed  especially 
for  all  upright  laborers  among  heathen,  Jews  and  Christians,  for  our 
dear  fathers  and  friends  and  benefactors,  for  all  children  of  God,  as  also 
for  blessing  in  our  United  Congregations,  for  the  laborers  in  them,  and 
especially  for  the  congregation  entrusted  to  him  in  Lancaster.  He  also 
rendered  loving  thanks  to  the  members  of  the  Ministerium  and  the 
delegates  still  present,  and  dismissed  us  with  the  blessing  of  the  Lord ! 
Amen !  Halleluiah !  the  Devil  may  lie,  slander  and  rage  against  it,  as 
long  as  he  has  time  and  permission. 


TWENTY-SIXTH  CONVENTION. 

1773. 


FIRST  SUNDAY  AFTER  TRINITY 

(June  12, 13, 14, 15,  Philadelphia). 
[Muhlenberg's  Journal,,  Sept.  1772-June,  1774,  pp.  108  ff.] 

The  Synodical  Meeting  for  this  year  was  appointed  and  announced  by 

Mr.  Kurtz,  Sen.,  President,  for  the  12th,  13th,  14th  and  15th  of  June  A.c. 

In  accordance  with  this  the  brethren  gradually  assembled  as  follows  : 

1.  Mr.  Kurtz,  Sen.,  President,  from  Yorktowii. 

2.  "  Schultz,  from  Tolpehaken. 

3.  "  Helmuth,  from  Lancaster. 

4.  "  Kurtz,  Jun.,  from  Earltown. 

5.  "  Friedrich  August  Muhlenberg,  from  Heidelbergtown. 

6.  "  Magister  Goeransson,  Swedish  pastor  from  "Wicacoa. 

7.  "  Stover,  from  the  Lebanon  district. 

8.  "  Wildbahn,  from  McCallistertown,  across  the  Susquehanna. 

9.  "  Bager,  from  Canewaga,  across  the  Susauehanna. 

10.  "  Buskerk,  from  Macunshy. 

11.  "  Young,  from  Whitehall. 

12.  "  Streit,  from  Easttown. 

13.  "  Roeller,  from  Goschehoppen. 

14.  "  Schmidt,  from  Germantown. 

15.  "  Schwerdfeger,  from  Limetown. 

16.  "  Heinrich  Muhlenberg,  Jun. 

17.  "  Kuntze,  from  Philadelphia. 

18.  "  Hartwig,  extra  ord. 

19.  "  Heinrich  Muhlenberg,  Sen. 

Brethren  absent  were :  1.  Rev.  P.  Voigt ;  2.  Krug ;  3.  Schauin  ;  4. 
Friederici ;  5.  Schwarbach  ;  6.  Enderlin  ;  7.  M.  Gerock. 

DELEGATES. 

1.  From  Lancaster ;  2.  Yorktown  ;  3.  Germantown  ;  4.  Earltown  ;  5. 
Tolpehaken;  6.  New  York;  7.  Tohickon;  8.  From  Cancgochick  in 
Maryland  ;  '.).  From  Dry  Land,  in  Northampton  County,  etc. 

Since  Pastor  Helmuth  arrived  several  days  earlier,  by  request  he 

139 


140  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

held  a  service  in  St.  Michael's  Church  on  Thursday  evening,  June 
10.  The  sermon  was  on  the  fortieth  and  forty-first  verses  of  the  third 
chapter  of  the  Lamentations  of  Jeremiah  :  "  Let  us  seek  and  try  our 
ways  [being]  .  .  .  unto  God  in  the  heavens." 

1.  Trinity  Sunday,  early,  June  12,  the  preachers  present  assembled 
in  the  parsonage,  and  went,  some  to  St.  Michael's,  but  the  greater  part 
to  Zion's  Church. 

a.  In  St.  Michael's  Church,  Mr.  Wildbahn  preached  on  Eom.  8 :  28  : 
"  "We  know  that  all  things  work  together  for  good  to  them  that  love 
God,"  etc.,  and  presented :  "  The  special  care  of  the  children  of  God." 
1.  What  God's  children  are.  2.  How  God  cares  for  them.  Illustrated 
with  examples  from  the  Old  and  New  Testament. 

b.  In  Zion's  Church  Eev.  Mr.  Kurtz,  Sen.,  p.  t.  Praeses  Ministerii, 
preached  on  a  portion  of  the  Gospel  for  the  day,  Luke  16 :  19  seqq.,  and 
presented  to  the  numerous  assemblage,  "  The  deceived  sinner : "  how  he 
deceives  himself  in  his  service  of  sin,  1,  concerning  his  true  freedom ;  2. 
concerning  all  happiness  he  has  gained.  It  was  a  very  powerful,  stirring, 
and  touching  discourse,  so  that  many  hearers  wept,  and  the  floor  was 
moistened  as  though  by  a  shower.  H.  Muhlenberg,  Sen.,  served  as 
deacon,  and  baptised  some  children  in  Zion's. 

In  the  afternoon,  Pastor  Helmuth  held  instruction  for  children  in  St. 
Michael's,  because  it  is  his  great  pleasure  to  catechise  the  children.  Mr. 
Bager  preached  before  a  large  assembly  in  Zion  on  the  lesson  for  to-day, 
I  John  4:  16  seqq.:  "Of  love,"  1,  its  source  or  origin;  2,  character; 
and  3,  fruit ;  it  was  orderly,  logical,  clear  and  fluent. 

In  the  evening  Mr.  Schultz  preached  in  Zion's.  Because  this  was  the 
first  time  he  visited  here  since  his  removal  from  Philadelphia,  and  old 
love  and  curiosity  and  such  causes  may  have  had  their  influence,  the 
assemblage  was  very  crowded,  and  was  instructed  and  edified  from 
I  John  5  :  4,  "  Of  the  overcoming  of  the  world  as  a  sure  mark  of  a  true 
Christian,"  and  in  it  he  systematically,  instructively  and  practically 
showed:  1.  Wherein  the  overcoming  of  the  world  consists;  2.  The 
strength  it  demands ;  3.  How  it  is  a  mark  of  a  true  Christian.  Closed 
with  vocal  music. 

Monday,  June  13,  at  8  o'clock,  all  the  preachers  present  assembled  in 
the  school-room,  where  the  President  Kurtz,  Sen.,  opened  with  a  fervent 
prayer,  and  then  the  following  matters  were  selected  and  appointed  for 
discussion  : 

1.  A  letter  from  four  United  Congregations  in  the  Canegoschick  dis- 
trict in  Maryland,  in  which  they  petition  for  Freiderich  Muhlenberg  as 
their  preacher  and  pastor,  because  Mr.  Kurtz,  Jun.,  who  had  been 


TWENTY-SIXTH  CONVENTION,  1773.  141 

appointed  for  the  place  at  the  preceding  Synodical  Meeting,  could  not 
get  along  well. 

2.  A  petition  from  congregations  in  Indianfield  and  Tohicon  for  a 
preacher  who  would  suit  their  conditions,  because  they  do  nol  as  yet 
have  a  parsonage  and  can  raise  only  a  small  salary,  and  would  like  to 
have  a  gifted  preacher. 

3.  The  petition  of  two  delegates  of  a  congregation  which  Mr.  Fricde- 
rici  has  served  for  several  years,  being  satisfied  with  what  they  could  and 
would  willingly  give  him.  But  when  out  of  need  and  want,  he  had 
asked  something  definite,  some  misunderstanding  arose  and  he  gave  up 
the  congregation.  They  therefore  beg  that  until  better  provision  be 
made,  their  congregation  be  occasionally  visited  and  served  with  the 
sacraments  by  ono  of  our  fellow-laborers  from  Easttown. 

4.  A  letter  from  Albany,  in  the  Province  of  New  York,  in  which 
they  describe  their  lamentable  condition  in  regard  to  the  Evangelical 
religion,  and  pray  that  one  of  our  Ministerium  may  come  thither  to  visit 
and  investigate.  They  would  pay  the  traveling  expenses  and  give  him 
a  call  for  a  preacher  from  our  Ministerium. 

5.  A  letter  and  delegates  from  the  small  congregation  in  Peikstown, 
across  Frantz  Creek,  requesting  to  be  served  with  the  means  of  grace 
since  P.  Voigt  does  not  serve  them,  and  the  other  half  of  the  filial  was 
not  willing  to  let  him  do  it.  (Vide  Protocol  of  the  Synodical  Meeting 
of  1772.) 

6.  Petition  from  the  small  forsaken  party  in  Readingtown  for  a  visit 
and  service  in  the  court-house. 

7.  The  Plan  and  Constitution  for  the  establishment  of  a  German 
Seminary  and  Society  in  Philadelphia,  founded  by  Pastor  Kuntze,  is  to 
be  read  to  the  Ministerium. 

8.  The  necessary  provision  for  Rev.  Mr.  Schw — f — ,  because  he  has 
no  place,  has  a  wife  and  five  children,  and  does  not  have  what  his  body 
needs. 

9.  A  letter  from  Lancaster  through  their  delegates. 

From  10  to  12  o'clock,  we  had  service  in  Zion's.  Mr.  Kurtz,  Jun., 
preached  on  Luke  16:  20-22,  "Of  the  importance  of  death:"  1,  in 
view  of  that  which  precedes;  2,  of  death  itself ;  3,  and  in  consideration 
of  that  which  follows. 

In  the  afternoon,  from  2  to  7  o'clock,  the  preachers  and  delegates 
were  assembled  in  the  school-room,  with  the  following  result  : 

a.  Concerning  Xo.  3,  the  delegates  from  the  so-called  "Dry  Land  " 
were  heard.  But,  Bince  Rev.  Mr.  Friederici  was  not  pnsrnt,  and  it  is  only 
fair  that  the  word  of  the  other  party  bo  also  heard,  it  was  resolved,  that 
our  united  fellow-laborer  in  Easttown  at  an  opportune  time  visit  the 


142  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

said  congregation,  serve  it  in  case  of  need,  and  find  out  more  of  the 
circumstances  and  make  report  thereon. 

b.  Concerning  No.  1,  the  letter  from  Canegoschick  was  read,  and  the 
delegate  heard.  The  entire  Ministerium  testified  unanimously  that  it 
was  necessary  to  appoint  a  preacher  for  the  populous  district.  The 
President,  therefore,  asked  Friederich  Muhlenberg  whether  he  would 
accept  the  call  which  was  directed  especially  to  him?  Friederich 
Muhlenberg  answered,  if  his  father  thought  proper  and  approved  it, 
and  the  Rev.  Ministerium  appointed  a  preacher  for  his  present  congre- 
gations, he  was  not  opposed.  His  father  answered,  that  his  son's  year 
was  not  up  until  December,  and  in  that  time  the  circumstances  might, 
through  God's  guidance,  become  clearer,  and  that  he  might,  in  the 
meantime,  again  visit  the  congregations,  and  preacher  and  congregations 
learn  to  know  each  other  better. 

c.  No.  5,  concerning  the  small  congregation  in  Peikstown,  no  decision 
could  be  made,  because  P.  Voigt  was  not  present.  However,  upon  the 
urgent  request  of  the  delegates  it  was  promised  that  they  should  occa- 
sionally be  visited  and  served,  until  further  arrangements. 

d.  No.  2.  Eeply  was  made  to  the  delegate  from  the  Tohicon  and 
Indianfield  congregations,  that  our  fellow-laborer  living  nearest  to  them 
in  Goschehoppen  would,  D.  V.,  as  soon  as  possible,  visit  them,  and  serve 
them  with  the  means  of  grace,  until  we  could  see  how  matters  will  go 
in  future.  When  the  appeal  for  help  is  urgent,  and  one  is  incapable  of 
responding,  he  must  be  saddened  and  discouraged,  if  he  have  these 
matters  at  heart.  Well-meaning  members  in  the  congregation  would 
like  to  see  order  and  a  spread  of  Christianity.  They  put  themselves  to 
trouble  and  urgently  petition  the  Ministerium  for  such  preachers  as  are 
suited  to  their  circumstances ;  the  Ministerium  is  willing  to  help,  but 
cannot.  Then  the  rude  mass  goes  ahead  and  hires  such  preachers  after 
their  own  kind  by  the  year  or  half  year,  etc.,  for  a  low  price,  and  the 
results  can  be  readily  seen. 

e.  No.  4.  After  the  reading  of  the  letter  from  Albany,  Rev.  Mr. 
Hartwig,  who  happened  to  be  present,  was  requested  to  explain  the 
conditions  in  that  place,  since  he  had  been  there  for  a  time.  He  ex- 
plained them  from  his  point  of  view,  and  said  they  were  miserable  enough. 
But  as  in  the  letter  the  congregations  lying  about  the  city  of  Albany 
were  not  included,  which  also  have  need  of  services,  he  thought  that  the 
Lutherans  in  the  city  could  not  support  a  preacher  without  being  united 
with  the  nearest  country  congregations.  However,  their  letter  was  to 
be  answered  by  the  President. 

/.  No.  6.  Concerning  the  small  party  in  Readingtown,  which  has  so 
far  held  to  our  Ministerium  and  been  alternately  visited  and  served  by 


TWENTY-SIXTH  CONVENTION,  1773.  143 

the  neighboring  members  since  the  resolution  of  last  }rear's  Synodical 
Meeting,  service  being  held  in  the  court-house  under  much  annoyance 
and  abuse  from  the  opposite  party ;  much  was  spoken  pro  and  contra, 
and  the  majority  of  the  votes  amounted  to  this,  that  with  such  visits  the 
gap  was  only  widened,  rather  than  healed,  and  the  good  purpose  was 
not  accomplished,  especially  since  it  was  scarcely  possible  that  both 
parties,  if  they  were  united,  could  suitably  support  a  preacher,  to  say 
nothing,  if  the  small  party  were  to  support  its  own  preacher  and  build 
a  separate  church  :  and  then  we  had  no  preacher  left  who  would  be 
able  and  willing  to  put  himself  between  such  clasps.  Accordingly, 
nothing  farther  could  be  promised,  except  that  if  any  family  were  in 
extreme  need  and  desired  consolation,  they  might  send  word  to  one  or 
other  of  the  neighboring  members  of  our  Ministerium  and  expect 
assistance. 

g.  A  copy  of  an  original  letter  writter  by  Pastor  Gerock  in  New 
York  to  his  Church  Council,  was  read  in  the  meeting,  in  which  he  states 
that  he  had  accepted  an  honorable  call  from  an  Evangelical  German 
congregation  in  the  newly-founded  city  of  Baltimore,  in  Maryland,  and 
now  desired  to  resign  his  office  in  Christ  Church  and  congregation  in 
New  York,  if  they  would  fill  certain  conditions.  As  none  of  the  Minis- 
terium had  any  objections  to  make,  it  was  considered  a  friendly  notice 
from  the  New  York  Church  Council,  and  embodied  in  this  Protocol.  A 
delegate  from  the  said  Church  Council  in  New  York,  who  was  present, 
fouud  himself  compelled  to  explain  the  said  certain  conditions,  in  order 
that  the  assembled  Ministerium  might  not  conceive  the  suspicion  that 
the  Church  Council  and  congregation  had  unfairly  overreached  or 
defrauded  Mr.  Gerock,  but  that  they  were  ready  and  willing  to  fulfill 
their  rightful  promises. 

h.  No.  7.  Pastor  Kuntze  read  to  the  meeting  the  plan  and  cer- 
tain fundamental  principles  and  rules  of  the  Society  and  the  German 
Seminary  founded  by  him  in  Philadelphia,  and  desired  a  reply,  namely, 
whether  the  Rev.  Ministerium  approved  the  articles  referring  to  it,  and 
to  this  end  would  elect  and  appoint  a  Procurator? 

The  bell  having  given  the  first  signal  for  the  evening  service,  the 
answer  was  postponed  until  to-morrow,  and  only  some  conference  held 
concerning  the  provision  for  Rev.  Mr.  Schw — f — .  1.  Question  concern- 
ing the  vacant  congregations  in  Indianfield  and  on  theTohicon.  Answer : 
The  delegate  from  there  had  privately  said,  that  many  in  those  congre- 
gations had  no  liking  for  him  [*".  e.,  Mr.  Schw ],  and  could  not  raise, 

much  less  force,  sufficient  salary  for  him.  2.  In  case  Friederich  Muhlen- 
berg should  accept  the  call  to  Canegoschiek,  whether  Mr.  Schwerdfeger 
might  not  succeed  him  in  the  congregations  which  will  then  become 


144  DOCUMENTAEY  HISTORY. 

vacant  ?  Or  if  the  fellow- worker,  Mr.  R ,  from  Goschehoppen,  suc- 
ceed Friederich,  whether  Mr.  Schwerdfeger  might  not  be  put  into  his 
place  in  Goschehoppen?  Answer:  It  would  depend  upon  a  trial,  but 
the  Ministerium  could  do  no  more  than  propose,  and  the  congregations 
had  the  right  of  choosing,  and  would  not  permit  any  one  to  be  forced 

upon  them  against  their  will  and  approval.   3.  Rev.  Messrs.  R and 

W said  that  there  was  still  room,  work  and  bread  among  their  con- 
gregations across  the  Susquehanna,  if  he  would  decide  to  move  thither. . 
4.  A  district  named  Schamokin  was  talked  of,  whither  a  large 
number  of  families  are  moving  to  settle.  5.  No  less  also  of  the  filial 
in  Peikstown,  but  the  little  congregation  alone  cannot  support  a  preacher 
with  his  family.  6.  Further  also  of  Albany  and  Virginia.  But  of 
what  benefit  are  all  such  propositions  based  only  on  conjectures,  since  it 
is  not  known  whether  the  congregations  are  suitable  for  the  preacher, 
or  the  preacher  is  pleasing  to  the  congregations  ?  And  a  preacher  with 
a  family  cannot  without  injury  and  loss  move  hither  and  thither.  If 
the  matter  is  deferred  for  a  long  time  and  the  preacher  is  without  work 
and  bread,  on  what  shall  he  and  his  family  live  in  the  meantime, 
since  there  is  no  institution  yet  where  a  poor  chargeless  preacher  could 
be  lodged  in  case  of  need  ? 

i.  No.  9.  Finally,  the  letter  handed  in  by  the  honorable  Church 
Council  in  Lancaster  was  read,  in  which  request  is  made  that  the  Synod- 
ical  Meeting  to  be  held  next  year  be  appointed  to  meet  at  Lancaster, 
because,  D.  V.,  their  new  organ  would  then  be  finished  and  played  for 
the  first  time.     The  President  closed  with  prayer. 

In  the  evening  Mr.  Magister  Streit  preached  in  Zion's  on  Micah  6 : 
8,  "  He  hath  showed  thee,  O  man,  what  is  good,"  etc,  and  from  it  pre- 
sented: 1.  The  duties  which  God  the  Lord  demands  of  us.  2.  The 
motives  for  doing  them. 

Tuesday,  June  14,  early,  at  7  o'clock,  the  members  of  the  Rev.  Minis- 
terium assembled  in  the  upper  school-room. 

After  our  President  offered  prayer,  the  following  matters  were 
taken  up : 

a.  1.  Henry  Muhlenberg,  Sr.,  explained  how  matters  stood  with  the 
sacred  foundation  of  His  Excellence,  Count  S.  R  ;  2.  Showed  the  docu- 
ment, its  settlement  upon  the  Honorable  Directors  of  the  Orphan 
Institution  in  Glaucha,  and  their  successors  as  also  co-administrators 
in  England ;  3.  The  authorization  of  the  Directors  given  to  two  Man- 

datarii,  namely,  M — b —  and  Sch ;  4.  How  much  of  this  legacy 

has  already  arrived,  when,  how  and  where  it  has  been  loaned  upon 
security  and  interest ;  5.  And  that  the  use  of  the  interest  alone,  accor- 
ding to  the  plan  of  the  great  foundation,  depends  upon  the  appointment 
and  prescription  of  the  Directors  and  Trustees. 


TWENTY-SIXTH  CONVENTION,  1773.  145 

b.  Henry  Muhlenberg,  Sen.,  rend  in  the  meeting  an  authoritative 
plan  concerning  a  necessary  "  ccconomical  "  Orphan  Institution  in  the 
country,  for  aged,  helpless,  poor  United  Preachers,  school  teachers,  their 
widows  and  orphans,  and  asked  all  to  give  their  opinion  on  the  subject. 
They  all  unanimously  agreed  that  such  an  institution  in  the  country 
would  be  very  necessary,  useful  and  comforting,  wished  that  the  Most 
Gracious  Father  in  Heaven  grant  His  most  gracious  favor,  and  through 
His  heart-ruling  power,  furnish  ways  and  means  thereto  !  Also  promised 
that  each  would  contribute  his  mite  from  his  scanty  support.  And  since 
a  beginning  has  already  been  made  for  a  German  Seminary  in  Phila- 
delphia, capable  subjects  might  be  prepared  there  in  the  necessary 
languages  and  knowledge,  etc.,  and  some  of  the  most  capable  and  prom- 
ising be  received  into  such  institution,  further  instructed  and  practised 
in  theoretical  and  practical  divinity,  and,  under  God's  assistance,  be  set 
apart  and  prepared  as  school  teachers,  catechists  and  country  preachers, 
as  also  for  "ceconomie." 

c.  It  was  stated,  that  in  the  last  letters  from  Europe  the  Honorable 
Fathers  were  pleased  to  let  it  be  understood,  that  Henry  Muhlenberg, 
Sen.,  undertake  a  journey  to  Ebenezer,  in  Georgia,  and  seek  to  fulfill  a 
commission;  it  was  asked,  what  their  opinion  was  in  regard  to  the 
matter  ? 

It  was  approved  by  almost  all,  and  believed  that  obedience  was  better 
than  sacrifice,  etc. 

d.  H.  Muhlenberg,  Sen.,  read  a  memorial  from  the  Honorable  Direc- 
torium  of  the  Pennsylvania  Mission  in  Halle,  in  which  among  other 
things  report  is  made  as  follow : 

Rthl.        Sgr. 

1769.  In  January,  His  Excellence  Baron  v.  GreifFenpheil 

presented  for  the  aid  of  the  preachers  in  Pennsyl- 
vania   10 

1770.  In  April,  His  Princely  Highness  of  Wernigerode  sent 

for  the  use  of  the  preachers  in  Pennsylvania         .     10 

1771.  In  February,  the  Baron  of  GreifFenpheil  sent  for  the 

preachers  and  congregations  in  Pennsylvania,  with- 
out further  directions  17  rtl.  16  gr.  ;  therefore,  for 
the  preachers  half        ......       8         20 

1771.  In  March,  His  Princely  Highness  of  Wernigerode 

sent  for  the  preachers  in  Pennsylvania  .         .     10 

1771.  In  May,  Mr.  Ehrhard,  of  Herrenberg  presented  to 

them 24         16 


Summa    ........    63         12 

10 


146  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Since  twenty  preachers  had,  upon  earnest  invitation,  taken  pains  to 
come  willingly  to  this  Synodical  Conference,  and  taken  the  traveling 
expenses  from  their  own  scanty  allowances  and  exerted  their  bodily 
strength,  the  aforesaid  aid  was  due  especially  to  them,  and  accordingly 
the  63rth.,  12  gr.  were  reckoned  as  being  equal  to  15£  17  sh.  6d.  curr., 
and  divided  into  twenty  equal  parts,  so  that  each  received  15  sh.  10& 
pence. 

Various  results  showed  themselves  during  this  convention,  namely : 

a.  A  general  humble  thankfulness  toward  the  Most  Gracious  God 
and  benevolent  benefactors,  who  not  only  remember  the  distant  poor 
and,  before  the  world,  despised  servants,  in  their  prayers  before  the 
gracious  tin-one  of  God ;  but  also  are  pleased  kindly  to  remember  their 
necessities. 

b.  It  was  no  less  touching  that  several  of  our  beloved  fellow-laborers 
who  live  far  away  in  districts  where  good  medicines  are  rare  in  cases  of 
necessity,  asked  that  they  (namely  six  brethren)  might  have  as  their 
portions  some  of  the  Halle  medicines  for  their  aid.  Two  I  required  to 
take  their  portion  in  money,  because  I  knew  that  things  went  poorly 
with  them,  and  that  they  must  pay  their  home  journey  with  it.  The 
other  twelve  members  also  showed  their  kindness  of  heart  and  thank- 
fulness toward  God  and  our  noble  benefactors,  in  that  they  considered 
it  an  especial  refreshment  if  they  spent  their  portions  for  a  still  poorer 
and  more  needy  institution,  namely,  they  gave  them  to  the  newly 
founded  German  Seminary  here  in  Philadelphia,  which  12  parts  at  15 
sh.  10|  p.,  made  9£  10  sh.  6d.  curr.,  and  were  handed  over,  as  the  re- 
ceipt shows. 

c.  Pastor  Kuntze  repeated  the  question,  whether  the  Rev.  Ministerium 
would  be  in  connection  with  the  Seminary,  according  to  the  plan  as 
made,  appoint  a  Procurator,  recommend  the  Seminary  in  their  districts 
and  send  whatever  gifts  might  be  received  to  the  Procurator.  Answer : 
Yes.  Then  Mr.  Friedrich  Rohl,  in  Philadelphia,  was  nominated  and 
elected  Procurator. 

/.  The  Synodical  Meeting  for  next  time,  D.  V.,  was  appointed  to 
meet  at  Lancaster,  and 

g.  Heinrich  Muhlenberg,  Sen.,  was  chosen  President  of  the  United 
Ministerium  Evangelicum  by  a  majority  of  votes,  and  the  conference 
closed  with  earnest  prayer  and  thanksgiving  by  President  Kurtz,  Sen. 

Thence  the  members  of  the  Rev.  Ministerium  Avent  to  Zion's  Church, 
because  the  first  public  examination  of  thirteen  seminary  students  was 
to  be  held  there,  namely  to-day  forenoon,  from  9  to  12  o'clock. 

In  the  evening  a  final  service  was  held  in  Zion's  Church,  where 
Frederich  Muhlenberg  preached  on  I  John  5:    20,  and   presented: 


TWENTY-SIXTH  CONVENTION,  1773.  147 

"  The  Sinner  Favored  of  Grace."     1.  The  receiving  of  grace  itself.     2. 
The  happiness  following  it. 

After  the  sermon  H.  Muhlenberg,  Sen.,  briefly  thanked  the  members 
of  the  Rev.  Ministerium  and  wished  them  a  safe  journey  to  their  respec- 
tive homes. — Amen. 

MEMORANDUM. 

To  Messrs.  Bager  and  Schwerdfeger  I  gave  their  portions,  15  sh.  lOsd. 
each,  making  1£  11  sh.  9d.  to  Messrs.  Schmid,  in  Germantown,  and 
Jung,  in  Whitehall,  each  a  Halle  Hymn  Book,  with  notes  @  10  sh. ; 
each,  therefore,  still  has  due  him  5  sh.  lO^d. ;  and  four  members  remain 
to  be  paid,  namely  Messrs.  Krug,  Kurtz,  Jun.,  Wildbahn  and  Stover, 
who  want  medicine  for  their  portions. 


TWENTY-SEVENTH  CONVENTION. 
1774. 

[September,  Lancaster.] 


[Muhlenberg's  Journal,  MS.,  Voyage  to  Georgia,  1774-1775,  p.  31.] 
[MS.  Letter  in  Muhlenberg's  Journal,  Sept.  1772,  to  June,  1774,  dated 
June  13,  1774.] 

I  will  lay  your  (church  and  congregation  in  Charlestown)  request 
before  our  Synodical  Meeting  of  the  United  Rev.  Ministeriuin  of  this 
year,  and  recommend  it  as  best  I  can,  but  regret  that  the  Convention 
cannot  be  held  before  next  September,  D.  V. 

II. 

....  I  completed  the  materials  for  the  next  Synodical  Conference, 
wrote  my  last  will,  because  of  my  children,  and  wrote  to  P.  Kurtz,  Sen., 
requesting  him  to  take  my  place  as  President  at  the  next  Ministerial 
Meeting  in  Lancaster. 
148 


TWENTY-EIGHTH   CONVENTION. 
1775. 

[Omitted.] 


[Muhlenberg's  Journal,  1774-1775,  pp.  697-8.] 

On  Saturday,  June  10, 1  received  letters  from  Philadelphia,  from  my 
sick  wife,  etc.,  with  anxious  request  that  I  must  come  home  without 
delay,  because  my  son  Frederick  from  New  York,  the  Rev.  Messrs. 
Helmuth  from  Lancaster,  and  Kurtz,  Jun.,  from  Earltown  had  arrived. 
The  reason  for  her  urgent  summons  was  that,  at  the  last  year's  Synodical 
Meeting  in  Lancaster,  it  was  decided  that  the  members  would  meet  at 
this  time  in  June  at  Philadelphia.  But  as  the  war  disturbances  had 
intervened,  when  I  was  consulted  by  our  President,  Mr.  Kurtz,  I  did  not 
regard  it  advisable  and  suitable,  for  reasons  satisfactory  to  me.  But 
because  of  the  shortness  of  the  interval,  this  had  not  been  made  known 
to  all  the  brethren. 

149 


TWENTY-NINTH  CONVENTION. 
1776. 

[October  6  ff.,  Yorktown.] 


I. 

[Muhlenberg's  Journal,  1776-1777.] 

Saturday,  Sept.  28,  I  wrote  extracts  from  my  diaries,  and  made 
copies  [of  papers]  of  last  year  and  this,  to  send  to  the  Preacher  Con- 
ference with  my  sons.  .  .  . 

Monday,  Sept.  30,  continued  writing,  had  a  brief  visit  from  Rev.  Mr. 
Henop,  from  Friedrichstown  in  Maryland,  who  said  that  our  brother, 
Rev.  Mr.  Krug,  was  suffering  with  consumption,  and  was  very  misera- 
ble. In  the  afternoon,  a  visit  by  Rev.  Mr.  Voigt,  who  excused  himself, 
saying  that  he  could  not  journey  to  the  Conference  in  Yorktown.  .  .  . 
Toward  evening  my  son,  Henry  M — b — ,  arrived  here  from  Philadel- 
phia, to  continue  his  journey  across  Tolpehoken,  to  Yorktown  to  the 
Preacher's  Conference,  in  company  with  his  brother,  Frederick  M — b — . 

Tuesday,  Oct.  1,  my  sons  Frederick  and  Henry  started  early. 

Thursday,  Oct.  10.  .  .  .  In  the  evening  Frederick  and  Henry 
M — b —  again  returned  safely  from  the  Preacher  Conference  in  York- 
town  by  way  of  Tolpehoken,  and  brought  their  sister,  Mrs.  Schultz, 
along ;  they  also  brought  my  written  extracts  of  my  Voyage,  Diary  and 
Housebook.  The  assembled  preachers  at  the  Conference  this  time  were 
the  following  :  1.  Messrs.  Kurtz,  President.  2.  P.  Helmuth.  3.  Kurtz, 
Jun.  [cancelled].  4.  Friedr.  Mb.  5.  Henrich  Mb,  Jun.  6.  Rev. 
Wildbahn.    7.  Catechist  Enderley.    8.  Rev.  Muller.    9.  Rev.  Gering. 

II. 

[Haleesche  Nachrichten,  o.  e.  1413;  n.  e.  II.  733.] 

Rev.  Gohring  received  ordination  from  our  Ministerium  at  York- 
town  [1776]. 
150 


THIRTIETH   CONVENTION. 

1777. 


TRINITY  SUNDAY. 

[May  25  f.  f.,  New  Hanover.] 

[Muhlenberg's  Journal,  1776-1777]. 

Friday,  May  23,  ....  Mr.  Kurtz,  Sen.,  our  President,  had  arrived 
and  was  very  tired.  In  the  afternoon,  I  also  had  the  pleasure  of  talk- 
ing with  Rev.  Mr.  Goering,  who  had  arrived  in  company  with  the 
President.  He  serves  some  seven  small  congregations  across  the  Susque- 
hanna, the  main  congregation  of  which  is  in  the  town  of  Carlisle.  He  had 
received  his  theological  education  from  Pastor  Helmuth,  in  Lancaster, 
and  ordination  in  Yorktown,  is  an  active  and  promising  worker,  so  far 
without  a  family,  hut  already  complains  of  his  chest,  which  is  not  to  be 
wondered  at,  because  he  has  much  preaching  and  catechising  to  do  in 
much  scattered  congregations,  and  must  travel  by  day  and  night  in  all 
kinds  of  weather,  and  must  be  satisfied  with  coarse  country  fare,  to  which 
he  indeed  is  not  as  unaccustomed  as  one  who  has  studied  in  Europe 
must  be,  because  he  is  at  home  here,  and  used  to  the  conditions  of  the 
country.  To-day  the  cannons  along  the  Delaware  fired  alarm  guns, 
because  the  British  war  vessels  are  said  to  be  sixty  miles  from  Philadel- 
phia, near  New  Castle,  and  to  have  threatened  to  burn  the  town  of 
New  Castle.    The  Ruder  galeeren  [galleys]  were  also  ordered  to  go  down. 

Saturday,  May  2-1,  about  noon,  Frederick  Muhlenberg  and  his  sister 

Mary  Sw ,  etc.,  arrived  in  a  carriage  from  Providence,  brought  the 

Protocol  of  last  year's  Conference  and  a  few  lines  from  Pastor  Schultze, 
stating  that  he  could  not  attend  Conference  this  time.  The  sad  con- 
ditions caused  by  the  war  and  the  difficulty  of  providing  traveling 
expenses  will  occasion  a  very  meagre  attendance  of  preachers.  Major 
Sw[ayne]   came  along  in  the  carriage  and  has   a  high  fever,  lodges 

upstairs  in  the  parsonage.    Frederick  M b also  brought  a  letter 

along  from  Reading,  directed  to  the  Ministerium  and  signed  by  the 
deacons  and  elders,  namely,  Messrs.  ChristofFet,  Witman,  Andreas, 
Engel,  Henrich  Hahn,  Henrich  Gossler,  Michael  Rosch,  Matthseus 
Braun,  Carl  Schwartz,  Friedrich  Rapp,  George  Schultz,  Heinrich  Wolf 
and   Conrad  Braun,  dated  May  17,  1777.     In  it  they  petition  for  a 

151 


152  DOCUMENTAKY  HISTOEY. 

faithful  pastor,  if  possible,  Frederick  M b .   In  the  afternoon,  Rev. 

Mr.  Lehman  arrived  from  the  congregations  on  the  Jordan.  Our 
beloved  President  Kurtz,  who  can  no  longer  endure  riding,  undertook 
this  time  to  come  the  long  distance  by  horse,  but  suffered  much  in  conse- 
quence in  Ins  foot  with  swelling  and  gout,  which  attacks  him  so  violently 
that  he  will  hardly  be  able  to  preach  to-morrow. 

Trinity  Sunday,  May  25,  it  fell  to  my  lot  to  preach  in  Zion's,  which 
I  was  unwilling  to  do,  because  I  had  not  prepared  for  it.  Eev.  Mr. 
Miiller  preached  in  St.  Michael's,  where  Pastor  Kuntze  was  also  pres- 
ent. In  the  afternoon,  Rev.  Mr.  Goering  preached  in  Zion's,  and  in 
the  evening,  Mr.  Lehman.  The  texts  were :  a.  in  Zion's,  John  3 :  1 
seqq.  Prop.:  "A  conversation  between  the  Messiah  and  a  prominent 
Pharisee  concerning  the  way  to  salvation."  1.  The  character  of  the 
conversing  persons;  2.  The  contents  of  the  conversation;  b.  In  St. 
Michael's  Church,  text,  John  3  :  36.  "  He  that  believeth  on  the  Son," 
etc. ;  c.  In  the  afternoon  in  Zion's,  text  II  Cor.  7  :  10.  "  Godly  sor- 
row worketh  repentance  to  salvation,"  etc.;  d.  In  the  evening  in  Zion's, 
text,  John  16:  20.  "Verily,  verily  I  say  unto  you,  That  ye  shall 
weep  and  lament,"  etc.  Towards  evening,  we  visited  our  President  Kurtz 
in  his  room  with  Mr.  Burghard.  The  poor  brother  surfers  unusually 
acute  pain  in  his  foot,  and  can  neither  lie  nor  stand.  In  the  evening 
after  the  last  sermon,  some  preachers  were  together  a  short  time,  and  in 
the  spirit  of  love  criticised  somewhat  each  other's  sermons. 

Monday,  May  26,  from  9  to  1  o'clock,  the  following  ministers  met : 
1.  Rev.  Messrs.  Schmidt ;  2.  Kuntze ;  3.  Frederick  Mb. ;  4.  Henr.  Mb ; 
5.  Goering ;  6.  Lehman  ;  7.  Miiller ;  8.  Schroeder,  and  9.  I.  The 
President  could  not  attend,  because  his  painful  disease  increases,  the 
swelling  is  already  drawing  into  the  knee  and  farther  up  into  the  back. 

In  the  afternoon  from  3  to  6  o'clock,  the  same  persons  were  again 
assembled.  In  the  forenoon  I  had  opportunity  to  write  and  send  a  few 
lines  to  Prs.  M b . 

Tuesday,  May  27,  the  ministers,  Mr.  Schmidt  excepted,  met  again  from 

9  to  1  o'clock.  I  went  to  Mr.  Kessler  beforehand  and  requested  that  he 
appoint  some  one  to  watch  with  P.  Kurtz,  because  he  is  very  ill  and  is 
suffering  great  pain.  Yesterday  I  handed  to  the  preachers  50  rth.,  that 
is  £12  10  sh.  currency,  from  the  Halle  Treasury  to  be  divided  among 
themselves,  and  to-day  I  handed  to  Mr.  Kuntze  the  50  rth.,  that  is,  £12 

10  sh.  from  a  benefactor  for  the  use  of  the  school,  and  £1  10  sh.  as  the 
gifts  of  his  friends  in  Germany.  In  the  evening  I  gave  my  general 
account  of  the  legacy  of  Count  S.  R.  to  examine.  Before  the  preach- 
ers separated — a.  Mr.  Lehman's  license  was  extended  for  some  congrega- 
tions in  Shamokin ;  b,  Mr.  Schroder  at  the  request  of  Mr.  Kuntze  was 


THIRTIETH    CONVENTION,   1777.  153 

examined,  but  very  leniently,  and  afterwards  received  a  license,  that 
he  might  administer  the  sacraments  in  the  Barren  Hill  congregation,  as 
also  in  the  Philadelphia  congregation,  if  the  Philadelphia  preachers 
asked  him.  I  had  many  doubts  and  fears  concerning  this,  which  I  in 
part  disclosed  to  Mr.  Kuntze.  But  he  insisted  strongly  upon  it  and 
wrote  the  license  himself.  Finally  Mr.  Kurtz,  Sen.,  was  again  unani- 
mously chosen  President,  and  the  next  Synodical  Meeting  appointed  for 
the  first  Sunday  after  Trinity,  1778,  in  New  Hanover. 


THIRTY-FIRST    CONVENTION. 

1778. 

[October  4  f.  f.,  New  Hanover.] 


I. 

[Muhlenberg's  Journal,  1778.] 

On  Sunday,  October  4,  I  was  unable  to  go  to  church.  In  the  fore- 
noon the  President,  Mr  Kurtz,  preached.  The  preachers  present  dined 
with  Mr.  Swayne.     In  the  afternoon  Pastor  Schultze  preached. 

Monday,  October  5,  in  the  forenoon,  Mr.  Schroter  preached.  After 
the  sermon  all  the  preachers  and  delegates  present  were  taken  to  the 
schoolhouse  and  refreshed  with  a  meal.  From  there  they  all  went  to 
the  parsonage  and  held  the  first  session.  The  members  present  were : 
1,  Mr.  Kurtz,  Prseses ;  2,  Mr.  Kurtz,  Jun. ;  3,  Mr.  Schultze  ;  4,  Mr. 
Helmuth;  5,  Mr.  Schmid;  6,  Mr.  Kuntze;  7,  Mr.  Fred,  Muhlenberg;  8, 
Mr.  Henr.  Muhlenberg;  9,  Mr.  Buschkerk  ;  10,  Mr.  Roller  ;  11,  Mr. 
Goering ;  12,  Mr.  Enderlin  ;  13,  Mr.  Lehman  ;  14,  Mr.  Schroter  ;  15, 
Mr.  Frantz;  16,  Mr.  Hendrich ;  17,  Mr.  Voigt;  18,  and  the  Super- 
numerarius,  Henry  Muhlenberg,  Sen.  They  went  over  the  Ministerial 
Constitution,  reluctantly  contracted  it  and  amended  it  by  a  majority 
vote.  In  the  evening  they  examined  the  three  young  men,  Messrs.  Leh- 
man, Schroter  and  Frantz,  and  resolved,  by  a  majority  vote,  that  Messrs. 
Lehman  and  Schroter  be  ordained,  D.  V.,  to-morrow,  and  Mr.  Frantz 
be  granted  a  license. 

Tuesday,  October  6,  they  finished  the  Ministerial  Constitution,  delib- 
erated concerning  the  supplying  of  the  vacant  congregations  and 
decided  that  Mr.  Goering  should  serve  the  congregation  in  Reading,  Mr. 
Kurtz,  Jun.,  the  congregations  of  the  late  Mr.  Schaum  and  Mr. 
Schroter,  Manheim,  etc.  All  the  preachers  took  dinner  with  Frederick 
Muhlenberg.  In  the  afternoon  they  had  trouble  with  a  man  from 
Gernsheim,  who  had  set  up  as  a  preacher,  etc.  Afterwards  they  com- 
pleted the  Ministerial  Constitution.  Messrs.  Helmuth,  Kuntze  and 
Schmid  said  they  could  not  stay  longer  and  went  away.  Afterwards  it 
was  decided  how  prayers  should  be  offered  for  the  government,  and  also 
154 


THIRTY-FIRST  CONVENTION,   1778.  155 

several  cases  of  conscience  were  discussed.  Finally  President  Kurtz  or- 
dained Messrs.  Lehman  and  Schroter.  Mr.  Kurtz,  Jun.,  made  the 
address  to  those  ordained.  Then  Mr.  Kurtz,  Sen.,  was  chosen  President 
for  next  year  and  Mr.  Frederick  Muhlenberg,  secretary.  Resolved, 
That  the  next  Synodical  Meeting,  D.  V.,  be  held  on  the  first  Sunday  in 
October,  1779,  in  Tolpehoken  :  closed  with  prayer  and  a  hymn.  I  gave 
poor  Mr.  Enderlin  2£  5  sh.  and  sent  poor  sick  Mr.  Friederici  5£  5  sh. 
through  Mr.  Lehman.  In  the  evening  I  read  to  the  two  Messrs.  Kurtz 
in  presence  of  my  two  sons  and  pastors  Schultze  and  Voigt,  the  status 
of  the  Legacy  of  Count  S.  R.,  where  and  how  it  is  placed,  and  also  the 
account  of  the  interest.  I  also  let  them  have  my  Diary  from  1777  to 
September,  1778,  to  look  through  it,  which  they  read  until  12  o'clock 
at  night. 

[Muhlenberg's  Letter  to  Freylinghatjsen,  Oct.  31,  1778,  in  "  Verte  Lib- 
ruin"  (I.  26),  p.  30  f.] 

November  17.  The  aged  Mr.  Hartwig  is  still  alive  and  continues  his 
office  as  a  voluntary  traveling  preacher  from  one  province  to  another. 
He  was  lately  present  at  our  Synodical  Meeting  in  New  Hanover  and 
wanted  to  go  farther  to  Virginia.  As  for  me,  the  supernumerarius,  or 
fifth  wheel  in  the  wagon,  I  daily  and  hourly  await  a  call  to  eternity. 


THIRTY-SECOND    CONVENTION. 

1779. 


FIRST  SUNDAY  IN  OCTOBER. 

(October  4,  5,  in  Tulpehocken.) 

I. 

[Lettee  of  Nicoeatjs  Kurtz  to  Kunze,  Sept.  17, 1779,  in  Muhlenberg's  Diary 

MS.  in  Archives.] 

"  I  remember  that  at  our  last  Synodical  Conference  it  was  resolved 
and  decided  that  no  further  announcement  of  the  Synodical  Meeting  to 
be  held  the  following  year  was  necessary  and  none  should  be  made.  I 
therefore  believe  that  the  brethren  who  have  not  received  notice  of  my 
intention  will  come  together  at  the  appointed  time  and  place.  Besides 
injurious  suspicions  might  arise  in  the  minds  of  some  that  I  had  a 
special  hankering  after  the  honor  of  presidency,  and  wished  to  have  and 
wear  this  title  another  year.  For  these  reasons  I  resolved  to  travel  to 
Tulpehocken  at  the  appointed  time,  if  I  am  alive  and  well,  where  I  will 
await  and  receive  as  many  of  the  brethren  as  are  inclined  to  come 
thither.   .  .  ." 

(It  seems  the  venerable  President  has  after  all  decided  to  hold  the 
Conference,  but  whether  many  of  the  brethren  will  come  is  uncertain. 
I  will,  D.  V.,  on  next  Thursday  start  from  here,  if  my  other  work  will 
permit  me  to  do  so. — Fr.  Muhlenberg.) 

II. 

[Muhlenberg  Diary,  May  7  to  Nov.  27,  1779,  MS.  in  Archives,  a  copy  of  the 

Protocol.  ] 

At  a  Synodical  Meeting  of  the  United  Evangelical  Lutheran 
Preachers  held  in  Tolpehaken,  Oct.  4  and  5,  1779,  the  following  breth- 
ren were  present :  President  Kurtz,  Mr.  Kurtz,  Jr.,  Mr.  Schultze,  Mr. 
Voigt,  Mr.  Muhlenberg,  Jr.,  Mr.  Lehman,  Mr.  Schroter,  Mr.  Goering, 
Mr.  Fr.  Muhlenberg,  Mr.  Melsheimer.  Absent :  Messrs.  Muhlenberg, 
Sr.,  Helmuth,  Kunze,  Schmidt,  Roller,  Buskirk,  Friderici,  Graaf,  En- 
derlein,  Wildban,  Bager,  Krug,  Hartwig,  Jung,  Leps,  Schwertfeger, 
Riess. 

156 


THIRTY-SECOND  CONVENTION,  1779.  157 

1.  Concerning  Lancaster:  Messrs.  Hubley  and  Hoff  were  present  as 
delegates,  and  after  due  deliberation  it  was  resolved,  that  President 
Kurtz  should  kindly  take  the  trouble  to  hold  service  in  Lancaster  next 
Sunday,  and  further  confer  with  them  there  concerning  the  filling  of 
their  vacant  congregation  and  that  Mr.  Goering  should  supply  President 
Kurtz's  place  in  Yorktown. 

2.  Concerning  Mr.  Melsheimer,  who  asked  to  be  received  into  the 
Ministerium,  it  was  resolved,  that  our  friendship  was  not  to  be  denied, 
but  offered  to  him ;  but  as  to  receiving  him,  we  would  wait  a  while, 
partly  in  order  to  learn  to  know  him  better,  partly  to  give  him  time  to 
obtain  his  dismissal,  as  this  was  a  necessary  condition  for  his  reception, 
nem.  contract. 

3.  Rev.  Mr.  Schultz,  who  had  received  the  call  from  the  Lancaster 
congregation,  could  not  accept  it,  as  his  congregations  strongly  protested 
against  it. 

4.  Resolved,  nem.  contrad.,  [no  one  dissenting]  that  in  the  future  no 
preacher  shall  leave  his  congregations  unless  he  has  well-founded  reasons, 
and  can  also  present  them  to  the  Ministerium  when  it  has  met ;  on  the 
other  hand,  no  one  shall  be  permitted  to  accept  a  call  from  new  impor- 
tant congregations  without  first  having  the  consent  of  the  President  and 
at  least  four  ordained  preachers. 

5.  Resolved,  that  in  the  future  no  preacher  shall  permit  a  candidate 
or  student  to  preach  without  first  having  brought  him  before  a  meeting 
of  Ministerium,  which  should  first  examine  him  and  furnish  him  with  a 
license,  nemine  contradic. 

6.  Therefore  resolved,  that  in  the  future  no  manner  of  license  be 
given  otherwise  than  by  a  meeting  of  the  Ministerium,  nem.  contrad. 

7.  Resolved,  that  Candidate's  Ernst's  license  be  renewed  until  the 
next  Synodical  Conference,  and  he  be  exhorted  to  continue  to  apply 
himself  to  theological  studies,  and  especially  the  ancient  languages. 

8.  As  the  Lancaster  congregation  asked  for  Henry  Muhlenberg,  Jr., 
he  presented  the  conditions  upon  which  he  would  accept  a  call  to  Lan- 
caster, viz.:  1.  If  his  congregation  could  soon  be  supplied,  and  2,  if  he 
could  get  his  father's  consent.  Resolved,  that  these  conditions  be 
approved.  Resolved,  that  four  weeks  from  next  Sunday  Rev.  Goering 
shall  preach  a  visiting  sermon  in  New  Hanover. 

9.  Mr.  Kurtz,  St.,  was  again  elected  President,  and  Yorktown  ap- 
pointed as  the  place  for  the  next  meeting.  The  time  shall  again  be  the 
first  Sunday  in  October,  1780. 

10.  Mr.  Franz's  license  was  renewed  until  the  next  meeting. 


THIRTY-THIRD  CONVENTION. 

1780. 
October   4,  New  Providence.     Protocol  by  Kuntze.     Not  a  regular 

MEETING. 


[Protocol.    Copy  in  Muhlenberg's  Diary,  1779-1780.    MS.  in  Archives.] 

October  4,  1780,  the  following  members  of  the  Ministerium  were  as- 
sembled in  Senior  Muhlenberg's  dwelling,  at  New  Providence,  viz.: 
Senior  Muhlenberg,  Pastors  Voigt,  Schmidt,  Roller,  Mr.  Ernst  and 
writer  of  this,  Kuntze.  1.  A  letter  of  President  Kurtz  to  Kuntze, 
Helmuth  and  Muhlenberg,  Jr.,  was  read,  of  which  the  contents  were  : 
That  for  weighty  reasons,  the  conference  which  was  to  be  held  at  York- 
town  this  year  could  not  be  held,  and  that  if  important  circumstances 
should  render  a  meeting  and  conference  of  some  of  the  preachers  indis- 
pensable, one  might  be  held  somewhere  and  the  necessary  matters 
might  be  there  attended  to  and  decided. 

2.  A  letter  from  the  New  Hanover  congregation,  dated  September 
24,  1780,  was  read,  in  which  that  congregation  thanked  the  Ministerium 
that  it  had  till  now  supplied  them  with  services  of  worship  through 
Candidate  Frederick  Ernst,  and  at  the  same  time  asked  us,  if  possible, 
now  to  consider  their  pastorless  condition,  and  if  it  could  be,  to  send 
them  one  of  the  older  preachers,  saying  that  they  would  be  pleased  if 
Rev.  Voigt,  their  former  preacher,  could  move  back  to  them  and  be 
their  pastor. 

3.  A  petition  from  the  congregations  at  Easton,  Greenwich,  Dry 
Land  and  Moore  Township  was  laid  before  the  Ministerium,  signed  by 
the  elders  and  deacons  of  the  four  congregations,  altogether  twenty-one 
persons,  in  which  they  requested  :  1.  That  the  candidate,  Mr.  Fred- 
erick Ernst,  who  until  now  had  j^reached  and  administered  baptism  in 
New  Hanover  as  a  licensed  candidate,  be  examined  by  the  assembled 
members  of  the  Ministerium,  with  their  approbation  be  ordained  to  the 
holy  ministry  and  be  appointed  to  their  congregations,  as  they  had  sent 
along  a  call  for  Mr.  Ernst.     2.  That  they,  these  four  congregations,  be 

158 


THIRTY-THIRD  CONVENTION,  1780.  159 

from  now  on  again  regarded  as  united  with  the  Ministerium,  as  they  had 
been  in  Rev.  Streit's  times  and  since  then. 

4.  The  call  mentioned  above  was  also  read. 

5.  The  letter  of  the  New  Hanover  congregation  was  taken  up  for 
consideration  and  it  was  asked  how  we  could  satisfy  the  congregation's 
request.  The  assembled  brethren  pitied  the  congregation  on  account 
of  its  present  condition,  which  they  found  critical,  because  there  was  no 
congregation  in  the  neighborhood  with  which  it  could  be  united  and 
served  by  one  pastor.  New  Goschenhoppe  is  too  far  away  and  the 
road  too  dangerous ;  the  Mountain  congregation  is  too  small  and  is  at 
present  supplied  by  a  vagabond,  who  claims  to  be  a  preacher  ;  and  this 
congregation  alone  could  not  well  support  a  preacher  in  the  present 
times  and  circumstances.  As  to  Rev.  Voigt,  delegates  came  from  his 
congregations  who  had  heard  of  the  request  of  the  New  Hanover  con- 
gregation and  were  authorized  to  protest  strongly  against  Rev.  Voigt's 
moving  away  from  them,  as  they  had  just  become  to  some  extent  settled 
and  were  very  well  satisfied  with  their  pastor,  and  there  was  no  other 
congregation  with  which  they  could  be  united.  We  therefore  knew  of 
no  other  way  but  to  promise  the  New  Hanoverians  that  Senior  Muhl- 
enberg, Rev.  Voigt  and  Rev.  Roller  should  visit  them  now  and  then 
for  the  present,  until  God  would  further  graciously  look  upon  the 
matter  and  furnish  counsel  and  help.  The  above-mentioned  three 
brethren  expressed  their  willingness  as  far  as  possible  to  fulfill  the  above 
promise. 

6.  The  request  of  the  Easton  and  filial  congregations  in  reference  to 
Candidate  Ernst  was  taken  up  and  the  committee  of  Synod  being  pres- 
ent, resolved : 

1.  To  comply  with  their  request  and  to  examine  Mr.  Ernst  to  some 
extent  as  to  his  knowledge,  and  in  the  name  of  the  Triune  God  ordain 
him  to  office  by  which  the  atonement  is  preached. 

2.  A  revers  be  laid  before  the  candidate  for  his  signature,  the 
rovers  to  be  that  which  Sen.  Muhlenberg  has  prepared  for  this  purpose. 

3.  The  following  was  determined  as  the  order  in  which  this  whole 
matter  was  to  be  conducted  : 

1.  The  candidate  shall  be  examined  to  some  extent  by  all  of  the 
members  present,  viz. :  by  Sen.  Muhlenberg,  on  the  article  de  8crip- 
tura  Sacra ;  by  Rev.  Voigt,  on  the  article  de  Deo  uno  et  Triuno ;  by 
Rev.  Schmidt,  de  Creatione  et  Providentla ;  by  Rev.  Roller,  de  Imagine 
Dei,  and  by  Rev.  Kuntze,  de  Christo.  Afterwards  some  questions  shall 
be  put  to  him  by  any  one  who  wishes,  on  Polemics,  Homiletics,  Church 
History  and  Casuistics,  and  finally  Mr.  Ernst  shall  explain  several 
verses  of  the  New  Testament  and  give  the  exegesis  of  them. 


160  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

2.  There  will  be  sung,  "  O  Heiliger  Geist,  kebr  bei  uns  ein,"  etc. 

3.  Then  all  tbe  preacbers  kneel  and  Sen.  Muhlenberg  offers  prayer, 
in  whicb  be  brings  candidate  Ernst  before  God  and  consecrates  him  to 
His  service. 

4.  Then  all  the  preachers  rise,  the  candidate  remains  kneeling  while 
all  the  preachers  lay  their  bands  upon  his  head,  each  saying  the  words : 
JBenedicat  tibi  Dominus  ut  multos  fructus  facias  in  vinea  Domini. 

5.  Next  each  of  the  brethren  present  gives  the  candidate  a  word  of 
admonition,  and  adds  a  good  wish,  the  candidate  standing. 

6.  Lastly,  all  the  preachers  again  kneel,  and  Rev.  Voigt  offers  prayer, 
after  which  the  preachers,  kneeling  close  with  singing  the  stanza  :  "  Was 
ich  gethan  hab  und  gelehrt,"  etc.,  from  the  hymn :  "Nun  freut  euch, 
lieben  Christen  gmein,"  etc. 

7.  Rev.  Voigt  stated  that  Dr.  Bodo  Otto  had  requested  him  to  inform 
Sen.  Muhlenberg  and  others  who  were  assembled,  that  Mr.  Lehman 
former  Pastor  in  Reading,  had  left  that  congregation  without  notifying 
the  Church  Council.  The  committee  cannot  in  the  least  justify  this 
action,  and  finds  it  to  be  opposed  to  that  order  which  must  be  observed 
in  all  Evangelical  congregations,  and  therefore  resolves  to  recommend 
the  more  thorough  investigation  of  this  matter  to  a  meeting  of  Minis- 
terium  and  in  the  meanwhile  to  inform  President  Kurtz  of  it,  in  order 
that  he  may  have  opportunity  to  inform  himself  better  in  regard  to  the 
matter.  Upon  the  whole,  the  committee  considered  it  very  wrong,  that 
(it  should  be  conditioned,  if,  for  the  other  side  has  not  yet  been  heard), 
Mr.  Lehman  who  had  only  come  to  this  congregation  two  years  ago,  and 
had  been  ordained  upon  condition  that  he  submit  to  all  good  order,  and 
especially  have  the  welfare  of  the  congregation  entrusted  to  him  at 
heart,  should  soon  leave  this  congregation  whicb  had  been  subjected  to 
so  many  changes,  without  first  giving  any  notice  or  account  of  it  to  the 
older  preachers. 

8.  Likewise  one  of  the  assembled  brethren  stated  that  Mr.  Frantz, 
who  is  licensed  by  the  Ministerium,  and  preaches  at  the  Jordan,  was,  at 
the  last  conference  held  in  the  Meadow,  asked  whether  he  had  joined 
the  "  Jachor  "  with  which  he  had  come  into  this  country,  and  had  taken 
its  oath  or  not  ?  to  which  he  answered,  No.  But  that  now  a  man, 
Andreas  Facius  by  name,  testified  and  was  willing  to  swear  that  Mr. 
Frantz  took  the  above  oath,  was  often  reproved  for  his  bad  behavior  and 
then  deserted.  The  committee  feels  itself  in  duty  bound  to  lay  this 
matter  before  the  next  meeting  of  Synod  as  being  very  important,  and 
to  request  a  further  investigation  of  the  matter.  The  committee  also 
requests  President  Kurtz  in  announcing  the  next  conference  especially 
to  notify  Mr.  Frantz  that  he  dare  not  absent  himself,  because  it  regards 


THIRTY-THIRD  CONVENTION,  1780.  161 

it  most  necessary  that  matters  of  this  kind  be  cleared  up,  carefully 
investigated  and  every  offence  that  may  be  found  among  us  be,  as  far 
as  God  gives  grace  and  we  can  discover,  removed. 

Henry  Muhlenberg,  Senior. 
Ludwig  Voigt. 
Frederick  Schmidt. 
John  Christoph.  Kuntze. 
Conrad  Roller. 
Frederick  Ernst. 

Appendix  1.  The  following  is  the  letter  which  the  Committee  will 
send  to  Easton  and  the  congregations  united  with  it : 

Providence,  Oct.  4,  1780. 

Honored  and  honorable  Elders  and  Deacons  of  our  United  Congrega- 
tions in  Easton,  the  Dry  Land,  Greenwich,  and  Moore  Township, 
Beloved  Fathers  and  Brethren  in  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord : 
We  the  undersigned,  at  present,  an  appointed  committee  of  the 
United  Evangelical  Ministerium  in  Pennsylvania,  etc.,  offer  our  hearty 
greetings  and  benedictions  from  the  richness  of  the  grace  of  our 
Blessed  Saviour,  and  give  notice  that  we  safely  received  your  petition 
of  Sept.  18,  1780,  and  considered  it,  and  according  to  your  earnest 
request,  in  a  meeting  held  in  New  Providence,  Oct.  4,  with  the  consent 
of  our  President  examined  Mr.  Frederick  Ernst  in  theology,  in  accord- 
ance with  your  wise  counsel  and  the  conditions  suggested,  received  him 
into  our  union,  and  by  reason  of  the  regular  call  he  had  received  from 
the  honorable  Elders  and  Deacons  of  the  four  congregations,  ordained 
him  teacher  and  pastor  of  those  congregations  with  the  laying  on  of 
hands,  in  the  hope  that  he  will  take  heed  unto  himself  and  unto  the 
pure  Evangelical  doctrine,  through  God's  grace  and  help  illustrate 
his  doctrine  by  his  life  and  walk,  so  that  he  and  they  who  hear  him  may 
be  saved  through  Jesus  Christ.     I  Tim.  4 :   16. 

2.  It  was  further  resolved  that  the  Committee  recommend  and  pro- 
pose to  President  Kurtz,  that  he  appoint  and  announce  the  next  Con- 
ference to  meet  in  Philadelphia  on  the  first  Tuesday  in  June,  1781. 

That  this  Appendix  also  belongs  to  the  preceding  parts  of  the  Con- 
ference we  testify,  ut  supra. 
11 


/ 


PART  II. 


PROTOCOL,  1781-1821. 


163 


CONSTITUTIONS. 


PAGE 

First  Constitution 165 

Second  Constitution 248 


CONTENTIONS. 


PAGE 

XXXIV.  Philadelphia,  1781 177 

XXXV.  Lancaster,  1782 181 

XXXVI.  York,  1783 186 

XXXVII.  Lancaster,  1784 192 

XXXVIH.  Philadelphia,  1785 198 

XXXIX.  Philadelphia,  1786 206 

XL.  Lancaster,  1787 213 

XLI.  Reading,  1788 219 

XLII.  Lebanon,  1789 225 

XL1II.  Philadelphia,  1790 230 

XLIV.  New  Hanover,  1791     ....  236 

XLV.  Lancaster,  1792 213 

XL VI.  Philadelphia,  1793 260 

XL  VII.  Reading,  1794 208 

XL  VIII.  Philadelphia,  1795 275 

XLIX.  York,  1796 282 

L.  Baltimore,  Md.,  1797  ....  289 

LI.  Lebanon,  1798 299 

LII.  Lancaster,  1799 305 

Lin.  Hanover,  York  Co.,  1800  .  .  310 

LIV.  Philadelphia,  1801 315 


PAGE 

LV.  Reading,  1802 322 

LVT.  Baltimore,  Md.,  1803  ....  331 

LVII.  Easton,  1804 340 

LVIII.  German  town,  1805 349 

LIX.  Hagerstown,  1806 362 

LX.  Lancaster,  1807 373 

LXI.  Lebanon,  1808 385 

LXH.  Hanover,  York  Co.,  1809  .   .  396 

LXIH.  Harrisburg,  1810 409 

LXIV.  Philadelphia,  1811 422 

LXV.  Carlisle,  1812 435 

LXVT.  Reading,  1813 446 

LXVII.  Easton,  1814 401 

LXVIII.  Frederick,  1815 473 

LXIX.  Philadelphia,  1816 485 

LXX.  York,  1817 497 

LXXI.  Harrisburg,  1818 509 

LXXII.  Baltimore,  1819 524 

LXX11I.  Lancaster,  1820 5-15 

LXXIV.  Chambersburg,  1821  ...   .  569 


164 


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CONSTITUTION  OF  THE   MINISTERIUM 

OF    THE    EVANGELICAL    LUTHERAN    CIIURCn    OF    NORTH    AMERICA, 
IN    FORCE    IN    1781. 


CHAPTER   FIRST. 

OF  THE  NAME  AND  THE  FUNCTIONS  OF  THE  FRATERNAL   ASSOCIATION  OF  TTIE 
LUTHERAN   MINISTERS  OF  NORTH   AMERICA. 

We,  Evangelical  Lutheran  Ministers  of  North  America,  who,  by 
subscribing  our  names  to  this  Constitution,  do  hereby  declare  ourselves 
an  organized  body,  and,  for  the  sake  of  establishing  the  Kingdom  of 
Christ,  whose  we  are  and  whom  we  serve,  which  can  only  be  accom- 
plished by  unity  (combined  effort),  and  who  never  mean  to  consider 
ourselves  otherwise,  call  this  our  Mutual  Association,  "An  Evan- 
gelical Lutheran  Ministerium  in  North  America,"  and  every  meeting, 
"  a  Synodical  Meeting." 

CHAPTER   SECOND. 
OF   TnE   PRESIDENT   OF   THE  SYNOD. 

§  1.  The  Synod  has  (elects)  a  President  who  is  to  be  respected  and 
honored,  by  all  its  members,  as  one  having  the  oversight,  both  during 
the  meetings  of  the  Synod  and  at  other  times. 

§  2.  He  is  elected  annually  during  the  meeting  of  Synod  by  a  major- 
ity of  votes.  The  office  can  be  filled  by  the  same  person  who  held  it 
during  the  previous  year,  as  often  as  Synod  sees  fit. 

§  3.  The  President  announces  the  meeting  of  Synod,  designating  the 
time  and  the  place,  if  these  have  not  been  determined  beforehand  by 
resolution  of  Synod,  and  presides  during  the  meeting.  In  case  the 
Synod  have  already  determined  the  time  and  the  place  of  the  next  meet- 
ing, the  President  still  directs  attention  to  it  by  a  circular  letter  issued 
six  or  eight  weeks  in  advance.  Both  the  regular  and  the  special  meetings 
are  included  under  the  synodical  meetings  which  he  announces. 

§  4.  If  at  the  time  of  any  meeting  of  Synod,  the  President  should  be 
sick,  or  absolutely  prevented  from  being  present,  the  Synod,  immediately 
at  the  opening  of  the  meeting,  elects  another  President. 

§  5.  In  case  of  a  tie,  the  President  has  the  casting  vote. 

165 


166  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

§  6.  Under  the  supervision  of  the  President,  and  in  accordance  with 
his  direction,  the  Secretary  keeps  the  minutes  and  reads  them  publicly 
in  the  Convention.  In  like  manner,  the  President  has  letters  read, 
written,  dispatched,  and  similar  things  done,  by  the  Secretary ;  and,  in 
case  of  necessity,  he  has  them  read  also  by  others. 

§  7.  The  President,  at  each  meeting  of  Synod,  lays  before  it  the 
most  important  matters  transacted  at  special  meetings,  and  reported  to 
him  concerning  them. 

§  8.  The  President  put3  all  motions  presented  to  the  meeting,  or 
causes  it  to  be  done  by  the  Secretary  in  accordance  with  his  directions, 
signs  them  and  hands  them  to  the  delegates  of  the  congregations,  records 
them  carefully,  or  sees  that  it  is  done  by  the  Secretary.  When  this  has 
been  done,  he  likewise  puts  his  signature  to  the  entire  transactions  of  a 
Synodical  meeting  in  the  Protocol.  To  this  signature  the  Secretary 
afterwards  appends  his. 

§  9.  The  President  takes  the  vote  on  all  matters  to  be  decided,  stating 
the  motions  offered  so  plainly  that  every  one  may  know  what  the  subject 
is  on  which  he  is  to  vote. 

§  10.  The  President  appoints  committees  to  carry  out  measures 
determined  upon,  but  not  for  determining  them. 

§  11.  The  President  is  required  to  receive  the  motions  of  each  and 
every  member,  and  submit  them  for  consideration  and  decision. 

§  12.  The  President  is  not  allowed  to  take  the  sense  of  the  house 
until  he  perceives  that  there  is  no  further  speaking  on  the  question  to 
be  decided. 

§  13.  It  is  the  duty  of  the  President  to  see  that  the  right  of  every  one 
to  express  his  views  freely  and  fully,  be  maintained.  He  is  also  required 
to  insist  strictly  upon  good  order,  so  that  no  one  improperly  interrupt 
another. 

§  14.  The  act  of  Ordination,  in  which  he  is  assisted  by  other  minis- 
ters, belongs  to  the  President.  It  dare  not  be  administered  except  in 
open  convention,  and  to  none  other  than  a  candidate  received  as  one  to 
be  ordained  by  a  majority  of  votes. 

In  a  case  of  necessity,  a  special  meeting  may  be  called  by  the  Presi- 
dent for  this  purpose. 

§  15.  That  which  applies  to  Ordinations  applies  also  to  the  granting 
of  a  license.  The  President  is  allowed  to  do  it  only  in  open  convention 
and  by  permission  of  the  majority. 

For  further  directions  as  to  ordination  and  licensure,  see  further  on. 

§  16.  The  President  appoints  the  examiners  of  the  candidates  to  be 
examined,  or  of  the  licentiates,  but  every  member  retains  the  privilege 
of  examining  afterwards  in  proper  order. 


CONSTITUTION  OF  THE  MINISTERIUM,   1781.  167 

§  17.  The  President  admonishes  the  hrother  who  errs  several  times, 
privately.  If  this  be  without  effect,  he  is  reported  to  the  Synodical 
meeting,  which  investigates  and  decides  the  matter. 

CHAPTER   THIRD. 
OP  THE  SECRETARY  OF  SYNOD. 

§  1.  The  Secretary  of  Synod  is  elected  annually  from  among  its 
members,  during  the  meeting  of  Synod,  after  the  election  of  the 
President. 

§  2.  The  Synod  must  continually  take  care  that  the  fittest  and  most 
learned  persons  are  put  into  this  office,  since  many  of  the  documents 
which  they  have  to  prepare  will  be  regarded  as  the  work  of  the  entire 
Synod,  and,  therefore,  require  thoroughly  capable  persons  to  frame 
them. 

§  3.  If  the  Synod,  perchance,  should  have  found  the  one  having  held 
the  office  previously  specially  adapted  to  it,  it  is  not  necessary,  on  this 
account,  to  pass  him  over  in  the  election. 

§  4.  Upon  request  of  the  President,  the  Secretary  writes  letters, 
draws  up  agreements  and  fills  out  certificates  of  licensure,  ordination,  etc. 

§  6.  The  Secretary,  in  the  name  of  the  Synod,  after  the  President 
has  signed  his  name,  attests  all  transactions  recorded  by  his  signature. 

§  6.  The  Secretary  has  charge  of  the  Synodical  seal  and  attaches  it 
to  such  papers  as  require  it.  But  in  every  instance  the  President's 
signature  must  be  attached  beforehand. 

CHAPTER   FOURTH. 
OF   RECEPTION   INTO  THE   MINISTERTOr. 

§  1.  All  those  who  set  their  names  to  this  Constitution,  and  to  the 
agreement  (pledge)  to  be  mentioned  further  on,  are  members  of  this 
Ministeriura.  As  a  continued  remembrancer,  and  for  the  glory  of  God 
in  the  future,  when  a  more  imposing  array  of  members  of  Synod  may 
probably  be  presented,  our  present  paucity  is  here  at  the  same  time 
freely  acknowledged. 

The  following  membership  belong  to  our  Synod : 

Henry  Melchoir  Muhlenberg  (f  1786). 
Nicolaus  Kurtz  (dec'd).  [1794]. 
Ludwig  Voigt  (dec'd).  [1800]. 
\Vilhelm  Kurtz  (f  1798). 
Job.  Andr.  Krug  (dec'd).  [179G]. 
George  Ba^er  (dec'd).  [1791]. 
Emanl.  Schulze  (dec'd  1808). 


168  DOCUMENTAKY  HISTORY. 

Heinrich  Helmuth  (dec'd).  [1825]. 

Friedr.  Schmidt  (f  1813). 

Joh.  C.  Kunze  (f  1807). 

Carl  Fried.  Wildbahn  (dec'd).  [1804]. 

Jacob  V.  Buskirk  (dec'd).  [1800]. 

Christian  Streit  (dec'd).  [1812.] 

Heinrich  Moeller  (f  1830). 

Joh.  G.  Jung  (dec'd).    [1793]. 

Heinrich  Muhlenberg,  Jr.  (f  1815). 

Joh.  Christian  Lepps  (dec'd). 

Conrad  Roeller  (dec'd). 

Samuel  Schwerdfeger  (dec'd).  [1788]. 

Jacob  Goering  (f  1808). 

Daniel  Lehman  (f  1810). 

Daniel  Schroeter  (dec'd). 

Friedr.  Ernst  (f  1805). 

Daniel  Kurtz .  [f  1856]. 

Friedr.  Melsheimer  (f  1814). 

David  Schaeffer .  [f  1836]. 

W.  Frederici . 

§  2.  In  those  cases  in  which  important  questions  of  conscience  and 
points  of  doctrine  are  to  be  investigated  and  decided  only  ordained 
ministers  have  a  vote,  although  licensed  candidates  are,  in  other  respects, 
regular  and  full  members. 

§  3.  The  minister  who  desires  the  reception  of  a  candidate,  and  con- 
sequently the  granting  of  a  license  to  him,  is  required  to  present  him  to 
the  President,  giving  the  same  an  account  of  the  educational  advan- 
tages enjoyed  by  the  candidate,  and  of  his  conduct  as  observed  by  him, 
appending  some  proof  of  his  capacity,  viz.,  a  sermon  or  theological 
treatise,  which  he  certainly  knows  the  candidate  to  have  prepared  him- 
self. In  this  he  makes  written  application  to  the  President  to  introduce 
and  present  such  candidate  to  the  next  Synodical  Convention. 

§  4.  The  candidate  having  been  presented  to  the  assembled  Synod 
by  the  President,  and  the  most  important  incidents  in  the  candidate's 
career  having  been  cited,  he  withdraws  until  called  again.  The  Presi- 
dent then  asks  whether  any  one  objects  to  the  reception  of  the  candidate. 
If  two-thirds  of  those  present  vote  for  him,  he  is  received. 

§  5.  Those  who  are  sent  by  a  religious  establishment,  as  the  Orphans' 
Home  at  Halle,  or  by  any  Evangelical  Consistory  of  any  locality  in 
Europe  whatever,  upon  request,  are  to  be  deemed  unworthy  of  recep- 
tion only  if  objections  made  to  their  reception  be  declared  weighty  and 
■well-founded  by  a  majority  of  the  votes. 


CONSTITUTION  OF  THE  MINISTERIUM,   1781.  1G9 

§  6.   Every  member  signs  this  article  or  agreement: 

"  I,  the  undersigned,  called  as  a  minister  of  the  Gospel  in  North 
America,  promise  before  God  and  my  Cbief  Shepberd,  Jesus  Christ: 

"  1.  That  as  long  as  I  serve  any  congregation  in  North  America,  I 
will  not  declare  myself  independent  of  the  Evangelical  Ministerium, 
whose  Constitution  I  have  signed ;  and  that  I  will  obey  its  rules  and 
regulations. 

"  2.  That  I  will,  as  God  gives  me  strength,  faithfully  obey  the  Con- 
stitution of  the  Ministerium  subscribed  by  me,  use  the  Liturgy  to  be 
introduced,  and  comply  with  the  resolutions  of  the  Synod  as  long  as  I 
exorcise  the  office  of  a  minister  in  North  America ;  and  that,  as  much 
as  in  me  lies,  I  will  promote  the  observance  of  the  Constitution  of  the 
Ministerium  by  others. 

"  3.  That  I  will  not  absent  myself  from  any  meeting  of  Synod  with- 
out urgent  necessity. 

"  4.  That  I  will  never  consent  to  receive  any  minister  whom  I  know 
to  be  unfit  because  of  a  lack  of  attainments,  or  of  an  immoral  life,  into 
our  Synodical  connection. 

"  5.  That,  unless  for  well-founded  reasons,  and  impelled  by  conscience, 
I  will  never  oppose  the  reception  of  any  candidate  or  minister  into  the 
Ministerium. 

"  6.  That  I  will  not  rudely  refuse  reproofs  from  the  President,  but 
even  in  case  of  an  inward  consciousness  of  innocence  I  will  submit  to 
them  ;  and  in  case  of  an  abiding  consciousness  of  having  been  wrongly 
judged  by  the  President,  I  will  appeal  to  the  judgment  of  the  Synod, 
with  whose  decision  I  expect  to  be  satisfied ;  and  I  will  neither  denounce 
the  President  nor  treat  him  unkindly  because  of  his  censures. 

"  7.  That  in  case  two-thirds  of  the  Synod  should  declare  me  no  longer 
worthy  to  be  a  member  of  the  Evangelical  Ministerium  of  North 
America,  and  consequently  to  have  a  seat  and  vote  in  a  Synod,  I  will 
then  give  up  my  congregations,  and  no  longer  exercise  the  functions  of 
a  minister  in  any  of  the  United  Evangelical  Lutheran  Congregations  of 
North  America." 

To  this  the  signature  is  to  be  attached. 

§  7.  Every  candidate  and  every  minister  about  being  received,  after 
having  entered  into  this  compact,  also  attaches  his  name  to  this  Consti- 
tution of  the  Ministerium.  Provision  is  on  this  account  to  be  made  that 
every  minister  be  furnished  with  a  copy  thereof,  so  that  he  may  always 
know  precisely  to  what  he  has  obligated  himself;  and.  further,  that  the 
President  always  have  at  hand,  among  the  other  documents  of  Synod,  a 
copy  for  general  use,  to  which  everyone  received  now  or  hereafter  may 
attach  his  name. 


170  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

§  8.  Whenever  a  candidate  has  received  his  training  from  one  of  the 
United  Ministers,  that  one,  and  none  other,  must  be  the  one  to  recom- 
mend him  to  the  President  for  reception. 

CHAPTER   FIFTH. 
OF   THE    MEETINGS   OF  THE   SYNOD    AND   THE   BUSINESS   TRANSACTED   THEREAT. 

§  1 .  At  least  one  meeting  of  the  Synod  must  be  held  annually.  If 
the  Ministerium  itself  has  not  determined  with  reference  to  the  time 
and  place  of  its  next  meeting,  that  is  left  to  the  President. 

§  2.  No  one  of  the  brethren  associated  together  is  allowed  to  absent 
himself  without  the  most  urgent  necessity,  and  should  a  case  of  such 
urgent  necessity  occur,  a  written  excuse  must  be  sent  in. 

§  3.  Whoever  does  not  appear  personally,  or  else  present  a  written 
excuse,  is  called  to  account  therefor  by  the  President  at  the  next  meet- 
ing of  the  Synod.  This  must  be  done  publicly,  in  the  presence  of  the 
entire  Synod. 

§  4.  Whoever  does  not  appear  personally,  or  else  present  a  written 
excuse,  for  three  successive  meetings,  shall  be  expelled  from  the  Associa- 
tion, and  shall  be  regarded  as  one  who  has  violated  his  pledge,  unless 
sickness  should  each  time  have  prevented  him  from  writing,  and 
consequently  he  have  caused  himself  to  be  excused  verbally. 

§  5.  The  Pastor  loci  provides  in  advance  lodgings  for  the  ministers, 
and  for  the  keeping  of  their  horses.  If  there  should  be  any  for  whom 
he  could  not  make  arrangements,  they  are  to  be  entertained  at  the 
expense  of  the  common  Treasury,  or  by  contributions. 

§  6.  The  ministers  are  required,  if  possible,  to  be  at  the  place  of 
meeting  in  good  time  on  the  day  preceding,  so  that  the  President  may 
be  able  to  assign  the  sermons  appropriately.  No  minister  is  justified  in 
leaving  before  the  actual  closing  of  the  Synod  by  the  President,  unless 
a  case  of  great  urgency  should  constitute  it  an  exception. 

§  7.  The  ministers  dine  together  in  a  body  at  the  expense  of  the 
Treasury  as  long  as  the  meeting  continues.  The  President  each  day 
appoints  two  to  offer  at  some  length  prayers  in  behalf  of  all  the 
congregations,  one  before,  and  one  after  dinner.  Such  as  do  not  preach 
are  appointed  to  offer  these  prayers.  In  the  morning  and  evening,  the 
ministers  take  their  meals  at  the  place  of  lodging.  This  matter  will  be 
arranged  as  soon  as  the  Synodical  Treasury,  which  is  to  be  provided  for, 
will  allow. 

§  8.  The  business  sessions  of  Synod  begin  precisely  at  9  a.m.,  and 
continue  until  1  p.m.  ;  and  at  3  p.m.  and  continue  until  6  p.m.,  unless 
when  matters  of  special  importance  require  an  extension  of  time. 


CONSTITUTION  OF  THE  M1NISTERIUM,   1781.  171 

§  9.  At  the  place  where  the  meeting  of  Synod  is  held,  there  shall  be 
three  services  on  Sunday  and  one  on  every  week-day  evening.     In  the 

country,  the  service  is  omitted  on  Sunday  evening,  and  during  the  week 
it  is  held  in  the  morning  at  9  o'clock. 

§  10.  The  ministers  open  their  business  sessions  with  a  hymn  and 
prayer — in  the  afternoon  with  a  prayer  only.  This  opening  prayer  in 
the  morning  and  in  the  afternoon  is  offered  kneeling.  The  President 
appoints  those  offering  these  prayers.  They  are  not  to  be  the  same 
persons  to  whom  sermons  have  been  assigned,  or  those  who  have  already 
offered  prayer.  The  last  session  of  the  second  day  is  closed  with  prayer 
by  the  President. 

§11.  After  the  prayer,  the  President  lays  before  the  meeting  a  pro- 
gramme of  all  the  matters  to  be  acted  upon.  Every  minister  who  has 
anything  to  add  now  announces  it,  so  that  it  may  be  noted  down. 

§  12.  After  completing  the  programme  the  Secretary,  by  direction  of 
the  President,  reads  the  Minutes  of  the  former  meeting.  After  this 
reading  some  further  time  is  given,  both  for  the  making  of  observations 
in  regard  to  them,  and  also  for  the  enlargement  of  the  programme 
referred  to  in  §  11. 

§  13.  After  the  reading  of  the  Minutes  the  next  item  is  the  presenta- 
tion of  the  Annual  Settlement,  as  soon  as  that  matter  has  been  properly 
arranged.  At  this  point,  receipts  and  expenditures  are  plainly  set  forth 
by  the  President,  or,  at  his  request,  by  the  Secretary.  After  some  inci- 
dental remarks  have  been  made  in  regard  to  it,  the  principal  items  of 
expenditure  for  the  coming  year  are  determined  as  far  as  possible,  and 
the  account  is  signed  by  the  President,  Secretary,  and  some  of  the 
members  of  Synod  present. 

§  14.  After  the  rendering  of  the  account,  the  Synod  at  once  occupies 
itself  with  the  business  of  the  delegates  of  the  congregations,  those  from 
the  most  distant  points  having  precedence,  and  those  living  nearest 
waiting  until  the  last. 

^  15.  The  President  is  required  individually  to  grant  the  delegates  of 
the  congregations  a  separate  hearing,  but  not  decide  what  they  present 
to  them,  for  he  is  required  to  lay  before  the  meeting  all  the  items  gath- 
ered from  the  delegates,  having  any  bearing  on  their  requests. 

§  10.  The  President  is  required  to  cause  the  Secretary  t«»  read  all 
let ;iis  referring  to  congregational  aflairs  received  by  him,  either  before 
or  during  the  meeting  of  the  Synod.  It  is  self-evident  thai  those  com- 
munications are  not  here  included,  in  which,  perchance,  certain  congre- 
gations or  church  officers,  regarding  the  President  as  a  private  individual, 
and  as  one  of  the  most  experienced  ministers,  ask  special  advice  in 
doubtful  matters. 


172  DOCUMENTARY  HISTOEY. 

§  17.  It  is  the  President's  duty  to  present  publicly  to  the  Synod  those 
delegates  desiring  it,  or  even  to  have  them  called  in  at  the  request  of 
the  members. 

§  18.  The  President  is  required  to  see  to  it  that  every  item  be  con- 
sidered and  discussed,  and  as  soon  as  no  further  remarks  are  made 
concerning  it,  to  select  from  the  various  comments  and  suggestions 
presented,  that  which  seems  to  him  most  thoroughly  adapted  for  its 
adjustment,  and  have  it  voted  upon.  If  this  be  rejected  by  the  major- 
ity, he  takes  the  next  best,  or  even  that  which  now  for  the  first  time 
seems  to  himself  the  surest  mode  of  adjustment,  or  what  is  now  for  the 
first  time  offered  by  some  one  else.  "While  the  vote  is  being  taken,  no 
further  remarks  are  permitted,  but  for  the  expediting  of  the  schemes 
proposed,  a  simple  aye  or  no. 

§  19.  In  case  the  President  and  Secretary  should  have  too  much 
writing  to  do,  in  writing  out  and  recording  the  transactions  of  Synod, 
it  may,  at  their  request,  elect  several  assistant  Secretaries,  whose  term 
of  office  continues  only  during  the  meeting.  These  must  at  all  times 
be  thorough  scholars,  except  where  mere  copying  of  business  transacted 
is  to  be  done,  when  the  best  penmen  are  to  be  selected. 

§  20.  In  case  a  matter  to  be  acted  upon  should  seem  too  difficult  to 
be  decided  at  once,  it  can  be  postponed  for  further  consideration,  if  the 
majority  so  decide,  and  the  determining  thereof  deferred  from  the  first 
day  to  the  second,  or  to  the  third,  or  from  one  meeting  to  the  next,  one 
year  hence,  or  from  the  regular  meeting  of  Synod  to  the  next  special 
meeting,  to  the  district  to  which  it  belongs,  as  the  nature  of  the  matter 
under  consideration  may  seem  to  require. 

§  21.  After  finishing  the  business  with  the  delegates,  the  remaining 
items  of  the  programme  are  acted  upon  in  the  order  in  which  they  are 
recorded,  whether  they  refer  to  congregational  affairs,  to  matters  of 
conscience,  for  the  decision  of  which  the  Synod  generally  appoints  a 
committee  of  the  oldest,  most  experienced  and  most  learned  ministers, 
who  must  sit  during  those  remaining  hours  in  which  Synod  is  not  in 
session,  or  in  reference  to  complaints  on  account  of  the  doctrine  and  life 
of  the  brethren  lodged  with  the  President  and  presented  by  him. 

The  Synod  always  endeavors  to  so  arrange  the  programme  that  con- 
gregational affairs  may  be  considered  first,  then  questions  of  conscience 
which  may  be  presented,  and  finally  the  conplaints  entered. 

That  which  is  laid  down  in  Chapter  4,  §  2,  and  is  there  made  of  gen- 
eral application,  holds  with  reference  to  decisions  in  respect  to  this  latter 
point. 

§  22.  In  complaints  brought  against  ministers  the  subject  of  investi- 
gation must  refer  to : 


CONSTITUTION   OF  THE  MINISTERIUM,   1781.  173 

1.  Positive  errors  opposed  to  the  plain  teachings  of  the  Holy  Scrip- 
tures and  our  Symbolical  Books. 

2.  Works  of  flesh,  Gal.  5:  19  fF.,  and  offense  given  thereby. 

3.  Faithlessness  and  slothfulness  in  the  ministry,  and,  in  case  of  a 
candidate,  also  in  those  matters  which  are  known  to  be  necessary  for  his 
further  preparation. 

4.  Neglecting  attendance  upon  the  meetings  of  Synod. 

5.  Bitterness  and  strife  of  ministers  among  themselves. 

§  23.  The  process  of  investigation  is  this :  The  President  distinctly 
presents  the  heads  of  charges  to  the  Synod,  hears  the  witnesses  in  its 
presence,  then  gives  an  opportunity  for  remarks  pro  and  con,  allowing 
every  one  to  express  his  opinion  as  his  final  judgment  in  the  mat- 
ter. The  President  and  the  Secretary  must  be  very  careful  to  recog- 
nize that  judgment  which  is  heard  most  frequently,  as  the  prevalent 
one. 

§  24.  The  effect  resulting  from  the  decision  must  be  limited  to  the 
following  points : 

1.  The  accused  person,  against  whom  no  two  or  three  credible  wit- 
nesses appear,  and  against  whom  there  is  no  other  evidence  of  proba- 
bility, is  acquitted,  and  regarded  as  one  against  whom  no  complaint  was 
ever  brought. 

2.  Whosoever  is  found  guilty  in  matters  not  of  too  gross  a  character, 
either  by  evidence  of  strong  probability  or  upon  the  declaration  of  two 
or  three  witnesses,  is  publicly  reprimanded  by  the  President  in  the 
presence  of  Synod,  or  if  the  one  found  guilty  be  not  present,  he  is  most 
earnestly  admonished,  by  means  of  a  written  document,  prepared  in  the 
name  of  the  entire  Synod.  Others  of  the  brethren  also  add  a  word  of 
reproof  verbally. 

3.  In  matters  of  a  graver  nature,  and  which  have  occasioned 
offence,  such  as  would  be  irrevocable  in  their  nature,  he  who  is  found 
guilty  in  the  manner  above  indicated,  is  excluded  from  the  Minis- 
terhim. 

The  committee  adjudicating  the  case  renders  its  decision  to  that  eflfl  ct, 
but  the  decision  cannot  be  carried  into  effect  without  the  assent  of  two- 
thirds  of  all  the  members  of  Synod.  But  in  case  of  the  subsequent 
ratification  by  the  above-named  two-thirds  of  Synod — in  which  case 
those  also  who  rendered  the  decision  as  a  committee  have  a  vote  as  well 
as  ordained  members  of  Synod,  although  the  latter  cannot  serve  on  the 
committee — the  sentence  must  be  executed  without  fail. 

The  Synod  cannot  make  the  sentence  pronounced  by  the  committee 
severer,  but  it  may  be  modified  by  the  assent  of  two-thirds.  To  follow 
the  intention  in  this  instance  closely,  and  to  know  in  how  far  the 


174  DOCUMENTARY  HISTOEY. 

sentence  is  to  be  modified,  the  President  proceeds  in  this  particular 
as  has  been  indicated  in  this  chapter,  §  18,  with  this  difference,  that  that 
which  the  President  submits  to  vote  is  not  binding  without  having  been 
endorsed  by  two-thirds.  If  none  of  the  motions  proposed  and  voted 
upon,  should  be  able  to  secure  the  endorsement  of  two-thirds,  the  verdict 
of  the  committee  stands. 

§  25.  After  the  transaction  of  matters  of  the  kind  referred  to  in  § 
21,  the  assembled  ministers  confer  with  one  another  concerning  the 
blessings  attending  their  labors,  or  the  difficulties  met  with  in  their 
sacred  office,  each  one  also  giving  a  detailed  report  of  baptisms,  con- 
firmations, burials,  communicants.  Absent  members  likewise  transmit 
this  information  in  their  letters  of  excuse.  At  this  point  the  diaries  of 
the  licensed  candidates  are  likewise  read. 

§  26.  Whenever  examinations,  the  granting  of  licenses,  or  ordinations 
of  licensed  candidates  occur,  these  items  of  business  are  transacted 
immediately  after  the  edifying  conference  as  to  official  experiences  and 
the  reading  of  the  diaries. 

§  27.  Every  candidate  desiring  to  be  received  must  first  undergo  a 
brief  examination  in  the  ancient  languages  and  theology,  and  then  only  • 
does  he  receive  a  license.  Before  the  ordination,  however,  the  licensed 
candidate  submits  himself  to  a  stricter  examination,  in  which  written 
questions  are  answered  also  in  writing.  The  former  may  be  called  a 
test ;  the  latter,  an  examination. 

§  28.  No  license  is  allowed  to  remain  in  force  longer  than  until 
the  next  convention  of  Synod.  It  can  then  be  renewed,  if  deemed 
proper.  "Extended  "  will  then  be  written  underneath,  with  the  day  and 
date  of  the  year,  and,  finally,  the  name  of  the  President  and  the 
Secretary. 

§  29.  Candidates  who  have  received  license  are  allowed  to  preach,  to 
catechise,  to  administer  the  Holy  Sacraments,  but  these  acts  dare  not  be 
performed  in  any  congregations  beyond  those  designated  in  the  docu- 
ment named. 

§  30.  That  licensed  candidate  who  is  convinced  that,  by  private 
application,  he  has  advanced  sufficiently  to  be  able  to  undergo  the 
examination  referred  to  above  in  §  27  may,  in  a  spirit  of  meekness, 
make  known  his  desire  to  be  ordained  in  open  session,  but  never  with- 
out the  afore- mentioned  conviction  as  to  a  knowledge  of  the  ancient 
languages  and  theology.  No  one  will  in  future  be  ordained  without 
both  these  requirements,  unless  in  a  very  extraordinary  instance,  or  the 
most  urgent  necessity. 

§  31.  Ordination  is  administered  according  to  the  circumstances  of 
the  case,  either  publicly  in  the  Church  or  in  Synodical  Meeting,  not  out- 


CONSTITUTION  OF  THE  MINISTEEIUM,   1781.  175 

side  the  Church,  without  the  most  weighty  reasons ;  iu  fact,  never  in 
special  conferences,  unless  it  should  have  been  committed  to  a  committee 
by  the  entire  Synod. 

§  32.  The  election  of  the  President  and  the  Secretary,  together  with 
the  fixing  of  the  time  and  place  of  the  next  meeting,  all  of  which  are 
decided  by  a  majority  of  votes,  constitute  the  close  of  the  business. 

§  33.  Last  of  all,  the  ministers  dwelling  close  together  in  one  county 
or  district  confer,  in  regard  to  special  meetings  or  conferences  to  be 
appointed,  concerning  which  the  details  may  be  determined  in  due  time 
by  resolutions  of  Synod.  Whenever  a  special  matter  has  been  referred 
to  a  conference  of  that  kind,  such  conference  must  be  positively  deter- 
mined upon,  and  with  the  knowledge  of  all  the  others. 

CHAPTER   SIXTH. 

OF  THE    CONDUCT    OP  THE   MINISTERS   IN    THEIR    OFFICIAL   AND   OTHER 

RELATIONS. 

§  1.  Every  minister  must  earnestly  endeavor  to  introduce  into  his 
congregations  a  constitution  which  corresponds  as  nearly  as  possible  with 
those  already  in  use,  and  which  must  not  conflict  with  the  Constitution 
of  this  Ministerium  in  any  point. 

§  2.  Every  minister  professes  that  he  holds  the  Word  of  God  and 
our  Symbolical  Books  in  doctrine  and  life ;  that  he  so  exercises  his 
office  that  he  may  stand  before  his  Great  Shepherd,  rejoicing  in  the 
great  Day  of  Judgment,  as  well  as  promises  to  remain  forever  worthy 
of  the  fellowship  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Ministerium  of  North 
America. 

3.  Every  minister  uses  the  Liturgy  which  has  been  introduced. 

4.  No  minister  is  allowed  to  encroach  upon  another's  office,  under 
whatever  pretext  it  may  be,  without  the  other's  consent.  In  actually 
vacant  congregations  an  ordained  minister  is  allowed  to  preach  and 
administer  the  Holy  Sacraments  as  often  as  he  pleases,  provided  this 
can  be  done  without  neglect  of  his  own  pastoral  duties.  So,  too,  every 
ordained  minister  is  at  liberty  to  give  up  his  congregations  at  his  dis- 
cretion, and  to  move  into  other  actually  vacant  congregations  which 
purpose  connecting  with  us :  provided,  he  do  not  thereby  interfere  with 
any  other  connection,  and,  also,  that  the  change,  when  made,  be,  in 
every  instance,  communicated  to  the  President. 

§  5.  No  minister  is  allowed  to  conform  himself  to  the  world  in  his 
walk  and  conversation. 

§  6.  Licensed  candidates  must  carefully  record  their  official  acts  in  a 
diary,  which  is  handed  over  at  each  meeting  of  the  Synod. 


176 


DOCUMENTAEY  HISTOKY. 


1.  2. 

3.  Nicolaus  Kurz,  4. 

5.  John  Andreas  Krug,  6. 

7.  Emanuel  Schulze,  8. 

9.  Heinrich  Helmuth,  10. 

11.  Carl  Friedrich  Wildbahn,  12. 

13.  Christian  Streit,  14. 

15.  16. 

17.  Heinrich  Muehlenberg,  Jun.  18. 

19.  Conrad  Roeller,  20. 

21.  Jacob  Goering,  22. 

23.  Daniel  Schroeter,  24. 

25.  Johann  Michael  Enterline,  26. 

27.  Fr.  Val.  Melsheimer,  28. 

29.  30. 


ludwig  voigt, 
George  Bager, 
Friedrich  Schmidt, 
Johann  C.  Kunze, 
Jacob  V.  Buskirk, 
Heinrich  Moeller, 
Johann  Georg  Jung, 
Johann  Christian  Leps, 
Samuel  Schwerdfeger, 
Daniel  Lehman, 
Friedrich  Ernst, 
Danl.  Kurz, 
F.  David  Schefer. 


THIRTY-FOURTH  CONVENTION. 

1781. 
[June  10,  12,  Philadelphia.] 


1.  June  10th  the  members  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Ministerium 
in  North  America  assembled.  Philadelphia  was  the  place.  They  went 
to  the  church  in  procession.  Rev.  Henry  Muhlenberg,  Jr.,  preached 
in  the  morning  in  Zion's  Church  ;  Rev.  Mr.  Schroeter  in  St.  Michael's 
Church  In  the  afternoon,  Rev.  Mr.  Krug  in  Zion's  Church,  and  iu 
the  evening,  Rev.  Mr.  Lehman. 

June  11th,  the  Monday  following,  they  again  assembled  and  went  to 
Zion's  Church,  where  Senior  Muhlenberg  preached.  After  the  sermon 
the  Synod  was  opened  in  Rev.  Mr.  Kunze's  house.  Members  present 
were  : 

Mr.  Henrich  Miildenberg,  Sen. 

Rev.  Mr.  Hartwig  and  Mr.  William  Kurz,  from  Lebanon. 

"  Krug,  from  Fredrickstown. 

"  Voigt,  from  Pikeland. 

"  Schulze,  from  Tulpehaken. 

"  Helmuth,  from  Philadelphia. 

"  Schmidt,  from  Germantown. 

"  Buschkirk,  from  Macunshy. 

"  Friderici. 

"  Kunze,  from  Philadelphia. 

"  Friederich  Muhlenberg. 

"  Hen  rich  Muhlenberg,  from  Lancaster. 

"  Jung,  from  Hegerstown. 

"  Gering,  from  Dover. 

"  Lehman,  from  Misillum. 

"  Schroter,  from  Manheim. 

"  Ernst,  from  Easttown. 

"  Moller,  in  Philadelphia,  Licent. 

"  Franz,  from  Whitehall,  Licent. 

After  all  the  preachers  had  cast  themselves  down  before  the  face  of 
the  Lord  and  asked  His  blessing,  there  was  read  a  letter  from  the  Presi- 
12  177 


178  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

dent,  Nicolaus  Kurz,  in  which  he  stated  that  he  could  not  attend  the 
meeting  of  Synod  this  time,  and  requested  that  another  President  be 
chosen.  Thereupon,  they  proceeded  to  the  election,  and  for  this  and 
the  following  year  were  chosen  : 

As  President,  Rev.  Mr.  Emanuel  Schulze. 

As  Secretary,  Rev.  Henrich  Muhlenberg,  Jun. 

Then  each  reported  those  matters,  which  were  to  be  considered : 
Concerning  1,  Warwick;  2,  a  union  with  the  so-called  High  Church; 
3,  Reading ;  4,  Mr.  Miiller  ;  5,  Mr.  Friderici ;  6,  Carlisle,  Shippens- 
town,  Chamberstown,  in  Pennsylvania ;  7,  several  congregations  in 
Westmoreland,  in  Virginia ;  8,  Holland  ;  9,  a  letter  from  Manheim  ; 
10,  Staufferstown  and  neighboring  congregations  ;  11,  Allenstown,  Dry 
Land,  Irish  Settlement  and  Indianland  ;  12,  a  petition  to  the  Assembly 
against  the  existing  custom  of  making  oath  too  common  by  demanding 
it  too  frequently  ;  13,  New  Hanover  ;  14,  Mr.  Franz  ;  15,  Mr.  Ernst ; 
16,  a  letter  from  a  certain  man  named  Beil ;  17,  the  Constitution  of  the 
Ministerium. 

These  points  were  immediately  taken  up  : 

Ad.  I.  Resolved,  That  Rev.  Mr.  Schulze  make  efforts  to  unite  the 
congregation,  to  serve  it  and  gradually  bring  it  into  full  connection 
with  us. 

As  Mr.  Schroeter  hereby  has  one  congregation  less,  a  letter  from 
New  Holland  and  two  other  congregations  with  reference  to  a  union  was 
handed  in  by  a  delegate.  They  asked  also  for  Mr.  Schroeter  as  their 
pastor.     The  answer  to  the  letter  was  postponed  until  the  8th  point. 

3  o'clock,  p.  m. 

Ad.  II.  Resolved,  to  invite  Rev.  Mr.  White1  to  a  friendly  conference. 
Rev.  Mr.  Helmuth's  house  was  appointed  for  this  purpose,  and  Rev. 
Mr.  White  appeared,  but  nothing  definite  could  be  accomplished. 

III.  From  Reading  a  letter  was  read,  in  which  they  asked,  under  cer- 
tain conditions,  for  Mr.  Melsheimer,  a  chaplain  of  the  Brunswick  troops. 

Resolved,  to  inform  the  congregation  that  Mr.  Melsheimer  was  not 
yet  received  as  a  member  of  the  Ministerium,  and  therefore  nothing 
could  be  decided  concerning  him  ;  but  as  we  regard  him  as  a  friend, 
whose  merits  we  appreciate,  we  will  not  consider  it  a  rupture  of  the 
union  between  the  Reading  congregation  and  us,  if  they  call  him  to  be 
their  pastor. 

Moreover,  we  give  them  liberty  to  ask  any  one  of  the  members  of 
the  Ministerium,  provided  that  such  a  step  be  at  the  same  time  reported 
to  the  President. 

1  [Afterwards  Bishop  of  the  Protestant  Episcopal  Church.] 


TIIlllTY-FOURTII   CONVENTION,   1781.  179 

IV.  Resolved,  To  give  a  hearing  to  Mr.  Midler  through  a  com" 
mittee.     Senior  Muhlenberg,  P.  Voigt  and  Buschkirk  were  appointed. 

Alter  the  report  was  received,  Mr.  Miiller  was  given  the  friendly 
advice,  to  refrain  from  pastoral  duties  until  the  matter  was  decided. 

V.  Each  of  the  preachers  promised  to  report  to  the  President  if  in 
his  neighborhood,  a  suitable  place  might  be  found  for  Mr.  Friderici. 

Herewith  the  first  day  was  ended,  and  the  preachers  went  to  church, 
and  heard  Rev.  Mr.  Schulze  preach. 

June  12. 

Ad.  VI.  Rev.  Mr.  Jung  explained  the  need  of  these  congregations, 
and  reported  that  they  would  be  well  able  to  keep  a  pastor  of  their  own. 

Resolved,  that  the  neighboring  preachers  be  requested  to  visit  these 
congregations  as  often  as  possible,  and  administer  the  sacraments,  and 
the  congregations  be  exhorted  to  keep  a  Reader,  who  shall  be  able  to 
attend  to  the  instruction  of  children,  to  lead  the  singing,  etc. 

VII.  These  congregations  are  situated  towards  Pittsburgh,  Redstone 
is  the  chief  place.  They  own  300  acres  of  good  land,  but  they  need  a 
man  who  is  strong  and  can  ride  much,  because  they  are  scattered. 
Resolved  to  give  the  same  answer  as  previously. 

VIII.  Rev.  Mr.  Schroeter  was  advised  to  serve  the  congregations. 

IX.  These  congregations  declared  their  satisfaction  with  Rev.  Mr. 
Schroeter,  and  requested  fthat  he  be  not  removed ;  which  request  was 
granted. 

X.-XI.  The  congregations  are  strong,  and  desire  to  be  supplied  with 
pastors. 

Resolved,  that  we  deeply  regret  the  lack  of  pastors,  and  must  repeat 
the  advice  given  above  under  number  VI. 

XII.  A  memorial  was  presented  to  the  Assembly,  after  being  signed 
by  all  the  preachers. 

XIII.  Senior  Muhlenberg  and  Rev.  Mr.  Voigt  were  commissioned  to 
investigate  the  matter,  to  help  the  congregation  as  they  were  able,  and 
the  advice  as  above  number  VI  was  given  also  to  this  congregation. 

X  V.  The  congregations  in  and  about  Easttown,  declared  their  satis- 
faction with  Rev.  Mr.  Ernst. 

June  12,  3  p.  M. 

n.  XIV.  A  letter  of  recommendation  having  been  received,  the  license 
of  Mr.  Lie.  Frantz  was  continued. 

XVI.  This  Mr.  Biel  desires  ordination  and  reception  into  the  Minis- 
terium.  His  letter  showed  sufficiently  that  his  request  could  not  be 
granted. 


180  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

XVII.  Resolved,  that  the  Constitution  be  signed  without  any  change 
and  at  the  earliest  opportunity. 

Finally  place  and  time  for  the  Synodical  meeting  of  next  year  were 
appointed,  viz.:  Lancaster  as  the  place  and  the  first  Sunday  in  June, 
i.  e.,  first  Sunday  after  Trinity,  as  the  time. 

All  the  preachers  uniting  in  prayer  pledged  themselves  to  continued 
brotherly  love,  and  again  at  evening  went  to  church.  Rev.  Mr.  Jung 
preached  the  closing  sermon,  and  Rev.  Mr.  Kuntze  dismissed  the  meet- 
ing with  the  benediction. 

That  the  above  is  a  summary  of  the  transactions  of  the  Synodical 
meeting  of  this  year,  we  witness : 

Emanuel  Schulze, 
Henrich  Muhlenberg,  Jun.,  Frees. 

Secretary. 


THIRTY-FIFTH   CONVENTION. 

1782. 

June  3,  4. — Lancaster. 


June  1.  The  members  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Ministerium 
assembled  at  Lancaster. 

2.  As  it  was  the  first  Sunday  after  Trinity,  they  went  to  the 
Church  of  the  Holy  Trinity,  and  the  President,  Pastor  Schulze  preached 
on  the  Gospel.  In  the  afternoon,  Rev.  Mr.  Jung  edified  the  congregation, 
his  text  being  I  Tim.  4 :  8,  and  in  the  evening  Rev.  Mr.  Lehman,  from 
II  Cor.  7:  10. 

3.  On  the  following  Monday,  there  was  another  sermon  by  Pastor 
Nicol.  Kurtz  on  Acts  26  :  18.  After  the  sermon  the  Synodical  meet- 
ing was  opened. 

The  members  present  were : 

Rev.  Mr.  Nicol.  Kurtz,  from  Yorktown. 

"  Ludwig  Voigt,  from  Pikeland. 

"  Andreas  Krug,  from  Friderickstown. 

"  Emanuel  Schulze,  from  Tulpehocken — Prses. 

"  Heinrich  Helmuth,  from  Philadelphia. 

"  Joh.  Georg.  Jung,  from  Hegerstown. 

"  Conrad  Roller,  from  Indianfield. 

"  Jacob  Gering,  from  Dover. 

"  Daniel  Lehman,  from  the  Misillum. 

"  Daniel  Schroeter,  from  Manheim. 

"  Friederich  Ernst,  from  Greenwich. 

"  Michael  Enderlein,  from  Shamokin. 

"  and  I,  as  Pastor  loci,  Henr.  Muhlenberg. 

N.  B. — Pastor  Harting  also  attended. 

Letters  of  excuse  were  received  from  Pastors  Bager,  Wilte,  Kurz  and 
Kunze. 

June  3,  a.  m. 

Each  of  the  members  present  handed  in  the  various  matters  which 
were  to  be  considered. 

1,  concerning  Greenwich,  Easttown  and  congregations  belonging  to 

181 


182  DOCUMENTAKY  HISTORY. 

these ;  2,  Rev.  Mr.  Wildbahn's  former  congregations ;  3,  Manheim, 
Modecriek,  Newholland  and  the  Bergstrasse ;  4,  Reading ;  5,  Mr.  En- 
derlein  ;  6,  the  Constitution  of  the  Ministerium  ;  7,  the  Catechism ;  8, 
a  new  Hymn  Book ;  9.  Mr.  Moller  ;  10,  Rev.  Mr.  Buschkirk  and  a  Mr. 
Beil ;  11,  Falkner's  Swamp  ;  12,  a  certain  Mr.  Butler. 

Hereupon  the  delegates  were  called  in,  and  in  part  questioned  con- 
cerning several  points  that  had  been  reported. 

1.  In  regard  to  No.  1,  there  was  a  delegate  from  Greenwich,  who 
brought  a  written  testimonial,  and  by  it,  as  well  as  by  word  of  mouth, 
gave  evidence  of  the  highest  satisfaction  with  Rev.  Mr.  Ernst. 

2.  Of  Mr.  Wildbahn's  former  congregations :  They  present  a  petition 
for  a  new  preacher,  to  whom  they  promised  £75  and  a  dwelling. 

3.  Of  Manheim  :  They  requested  that  Rev.  Mr.  Schroeter  be  relieved 
of  his  excessive  work  in  other  congregations,  so  that  he  might  have  ser- 
vice there  every  three  weeks  and  diligently  attend  to  the  instruction  of 
children.  A  delegate  from  Modecriek  [Muddy  Creek]  requested  that 
Mr.  Schroeter,  with  whom  they  were  thoroughly  satisfied,  be  allowed  to 
retain  them. 

4.  Delegates  from  the  Bergstrasse  and  Newholland  desire  services 
every  two  weeks  from  Mr.  Schroeter,  but  regret  to  testify  that  on  the 
Bergstrasse  indeed  the  larger,  but  in  Newholland  the  smaller  part  of 
the  congregation  is  in  favor  of  Mr.  Schroeter. 

5.  From  Hegerstown,  there  appeared  one  who  had  accompanied  Rev. 
Mr.  Jung,  and  reported  the  satisfaction  of  the  congregation  at  that 
place  with  him. 

6.  From  Reading,  a  delegate  handed  in  a  letter,  and  also  by  word  of 
mouth,  asked  for  Rev.  Mr.  Wildbahn. 

7.  From  Falkner  Swamp,  a  delegate  handed  in  a  petition  for  a 
preacher. 

8.  From  Machanai  Township,  two  delegates  were  present,  and 
brought  various  complaints  against  Mr.  Enderlein. 

June  3rd,  1782,  p.  m. 

In  the  afternoon  were  taken  up,  first : 

N.  3.  And  finally,  Resolved,  That  Mr.  Schroeter  serve  the  congrega- 
tions in  Newholland,  on  the  Bergstrasse  and  Modecriek  one  year  more, 
if  the  congregations  will  furnish  the  necessary  support,  and  that  Rev. 
Muhlenberg,  of  Lancaster,  visit  these  congregations  several  times,  in 
order,  if  possible,  to  bring  about  peace. 

N.  5.  After  a  long  examination  of  the  complaints  and  of  Mr.  Ender- 
lein, it  was  resolved  that  the  new  Church  Constitution  which  Mr.  Ender- 
lein wished  to  introduce  be  withdrawn  for  the  present,  and  that  both 


THIRTY-FIFTH  CONVENTION,  1782.  183 

parties  make  concessions  and  bear  with  each  other  in  patience.  Mr. 
Enderlein  promised  to  do  his  best  in  this  direction,  and  in  case  the 
congregation  were  thrown  into  confusion  by  his  remaining,  lie  would 
rather  give  it  up  altogether. 

N.  12.  Mr.  Butler  brought  a  recommendation  from  the  congregation 
on  the  Octorara,  and  asked  to  be  admitted  into  the  Ministerium.  An- 
swer was  given  him : 

1.  That,  by  reason  of  lack  of  sufficient  acquaintance  and  on  account 
of  offence  given,  he  could  not  be  received. 

2.  That  he  should  not  be  forbidden  to  preach  and  baptize  children, 
in  cases  of  necessity,  so  long  as  he  led  an  orderly,  Christian  life. 

3.  That  he  should  entirely  refrain  from  the  distribution  of  the 
Holy  Communion  and  the  confirmation  of  those  instructed. 

Rev.  Muhlenberg  promised  to  attend  to  both  of  these  whenever  re- 
quested. 

N.  6.  The  Constitution  of  the  Ministerium  was  again  read  and 
signed,  after  a  few  slight  changes  (cap.  2,  §  14 ;  cap.  4,  §  6 ;  cap.  5, 
§30). 

The  first  day  being  thus  ended,  all  the  preachers  went  to  church, 
through  a  heavy  storm,  and  heard  Rev.  Mr.  Roller  preach  on  Jer.  47 : 
6-7. 

June  4th,  a.  m. 

After  the  customary  prayer,  the  following  points  were  taken  up  : 

N.  4.  The  letter  from  Reading  petitioned  for  Rev.  Mr.  Wildbahn, 
who  promised  to  take  the  congregation,  which  he  was  unanimously 
advised  to  do. 

N.  5.  These  congregations,  which  are  very  scattered,  were  advised  to 
apply  to  Rev.  Mr.  AVilhelm  Kurz  or  Mr.  Schroeter,  and  ask  for  an 
occasional  sermon.     (Gastpredigt). 

N.  6.  Resolved,  to  have  the  Ministerial  Order  and  the  common 
Ch  urch  Agende  printed ;  the  latter  remains  as  it  is,  except  that  the  formula 
of  Confirmation,  as  introduced  in  Wiirt  tern  berg,  be  added. 

June  4th,  p.  m. 

N.  8.  Unanimously  resolved  to  have  a  new  Hymn  Book  printed  for 
our  United  Congregations. 

Resolved,  that  Revs.  Muhlenberg,  Sen.,  Kunze,  Helmuth  and  Muhl- 
enberg, Jan.,  be  a  committee  to  prepare  this  for  print. 

Resolved,  that  the  committee  be  strictly  bound  by  the  following 
rules  : 

1.  As  far  as  possible  to  follow  the  arrangement  of  the  Halle  Hymn 
Book. 


184  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

2.  Not  to  omit  any  of  the  old  standard  hymns,  especially  of  Luther 
and  Paul  Gerhard. 

3.  To  omit  the  Gospels  and  Epistles  for  Apostles'  Days,  Minor  Festi- 
vals, and  the  History  of  the  Destruction  of  Jerusalem,  together  with  the 
collection  of  Prayers  and  the  Catechism. 

4.  To  report  all  this  together  with  incidental  changes,  e.  g.,  in  the 
Litany  to  a  special  meeting  of  Synod. 

5.  Not  to  admit  more  than  750  hymns  into  the  collection. 

Resolved,  that  for  this  Hymn  Book,  a  brief  Prayer  Book,  with  morn- 
ing and  evening  prayers,  prayers  for  the  sick  and  for  communion,  be  pre- 
pared. Rev.  Mr.  Helmuth  was  unanimously  chosen  to  prepare  this,  and 
instructed  to  present  it  to  the  special  meeting  of  Synod  for  approbation. 

Resolved,  that  Mr.  Steiner  print  the  whole  work,  using  the  Freierian 
orthography,  and  Rev.  Mr.  Helmuth  read  the  proof. 

Resolved,  that  Senior  Muhlenberg  prepare  the  Preface,  and  that  it  be 
signed  by  all  the  United  Preachers. 

N.  7.  Concerning  the  Catechism,  it  was  resolved,  after  mature  consid- 
eration, that  no  changes  whatever  should  be  undertaken  except  with  the 
approval  of  the  Synod,  in  particular  that  in  the  next  edition  :  1.  The 
edition  of  H.  Midler,  1774,  be  taken  as  the  basis ;  2.  That  from  it  pages 
1-64,  69-89,  94,  123-144,  be  printed  without  change,  and  the  rest  be 
dropped ;  3.  From  Steiner's  edition  of  1781  pages  35-47  be  reprinted, 
after  some  few  slight  changes  ;  4.  All  quotations  from  Catechism  in  the 
Wurttemberg  formula  of  Confirmation  be  altered  to  conform  with  this 
Catechism. 

Resolved,  that  this  Catechism  be  generally  introduced,  and,  as  far  as 
possible,  remain  unchanged. 

N.  9.  Concerning  Mr.  Moller,  there  were  read  a  letter  of  recommen- 
dation by  Rev.  Mr.  Kunze,  and  a  call  from  two  English  congregations  in 
Jersey,  and  hereupon  resolved : 

"That  Senior  Muhlenberg,  Pastors  Voigt,  Schmidt  and  Roller  be 
appointed  a  committee  to  meet  at  Providence  by  July  30th,  and  examine 
and  ordain  Mr.  Moller." 

N.  1.  Rev.  Mr.  Ernst  reported  that  he  had  been  forced  to  give  up  the 
congregation  at  Easttown,  which  had  taken  a  vagabond  [as  pastor]. 
His  reasons  were  considered  sufficient,  and  the  other  congregations  were 
exhorted  to  use  his  services  as  before. 

N.  10.  A  testimonial  signed  by  many  members  of  the  congregation 
was  read,  in  which  Rev.  Mr.  Buschkirk  was  praised  for  his  faithfulness 
in  duty,  and  the  Synod  was  petitioned  not  to  receive  Mr.  Beil  as  a 
member. 

N.  11.  Had  come  up  already  on  the  first  day,  but  neither  then  nor 


THIRTY-FIFTH  CONVENTION,  1782.  185 

now  could  help  be  promised.  The  congregation  was,  however,  .advised 
to  be  patient,  or  to  apply  directly  to  one  or  the  other  of  the  United 
Preachers  on  whom  the  choice  of  the  congregation  may  fall. 

Finally,  by  majority  of  votes,  Rev.  Mr.  Emanuel  Schulzc  was 
appointed  President,  Rev.  Muhlenberg,  Jun.,  Secretary,  and  Yorktown 
as  the  place  of  the  Synodical  meeting,  on  the  Festival  of  the  Trinity, 
i.  e.,  loth  of  June,  1783.  The  pastors  united  in  prayer  and  song,  pledg- 
ing themselves  to  continued  brotherly  love  and  faithfulness  in  the  dis- 
charge of  their  ministerial  duties.  Then  they  went  to  church,  where 
Rev.  Mr.  Ilelmuth  delivered  an  edifying  closing  sermon  on  I  Cor.  2  :  2, 
and  the  preachers  were  dismissed  by  the  jmstor  loci  with  thanks  and 
benedictions. 

That  the  above  all  occurred  thus,  we  witness  with  our  own  signature : 

Em.  Schulze, 
Henr.  Muhlenberg,  Jun.,  President. 

Secretary. 


THIRTY-SIXTH  CONVENTION. 

1783.  - 
June  15-17,  York. 


June  15th,  it  being  the  Festival  of  the  Trinity,  the  following  of  all  the 
invited  members  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Ministerium  appeared  at 
Yorktown : 

Mr.  Nicolaus  Kurz,  Pastor  loci. 

"  Andreas  Krug,  from  Friedrichstatt. 

"  Georg  Bager,  from  McCallister. 

"  Emanuel  Schulze,  from  Tulpehocken,  President. 

"  Jacobus  V.  Buskirk,  from  Macunshy. 

"  Carl  Friedr.  Wild  balm,  from  Reading. 

"  Johan  Christ.  Kunze,  from  Philadelphia. 

"  Christian  Streit,  from  New  Hanover. 

"  Henrich  Muhlenberg,  Jun.,  from  Lancaster. 

"  Joh.  Christian  Leps,  from  Northampton. 

"  Jacob  Gering,  in  Yorktown. 

"  Daniel  Schroeter,  from  Maccallister. 

"  Friederich  Ernst,  from  Greenwich. 

Absent  members  who  sent  letters  of  excuse  were : 

Senior  Muhlenberg. 
Past.  Helmuth. 

"       Wilh.  Kurz. 

"       Moller. 
Lie.  Enderlein. 
Rev.  Mr.  Lehman  sent  an  oral  excuse. 

At  10  o'clock  a.  m.,  all  the  preachers  went  in  procession  to  the  church, 
and  Past.  Kunze  preached  a  sermon  on  I  Cor.  3:9.  "  Preachers  as 
fellow-workers  with  God." 

In  the  afternoon,  at  2  o'clock,  Rev.  Mr.  Ernst  preached  on  John  12 : 
26.  "  The  blessedness  of  the  true  servants  of  Christ,"  and  in  the  evening 
186 


THIRTY-SIXTH  CONVENTION,   17S3.  187 

Rev.  Muhlenberg  on  Luke  24 :  4G  ff.  "  Repentance  and  forgiveness 
of  sin  through  Christ." 

After  the  latter  sermon  the  preachers  assembled  in  the  parsonage, 
and  after  they  had  bowed  before  God  in  prayer,  there  appeared  a  man 
named  Wade,  who  formerly  had  preached  in  some  English  congrega- 
tions belonging  to  the  High  Church.  He  presented  testimonials  and  a 
petition,  and  earnestly  requested  that  the  Ministerium  examine  and  or- 
dain him.  Senior  Muhlenberg  and  Pastor  Helmuth  had  earnestly  re- 
commended him  as  to  his  good  character  and  life.  The  following  ques- 
tions were  given  him  in  writing,  to  be  answered  by  next  morning. 

1.  How  can  an  (uneducated)  ordinary  man  be  most  easily  convinced 
of  the  authenticity  and  the  divine  origin  of  Holy  Scripture? 

-.   How  is  the  genuineness  of  the  Biblical  books  proved? 

3.  How  the  baptism  of  children  ? 

4.  What  is  his  idea  of  the  Holy  Communion  ? 

5.  The  eternity  of  the  punishment  of  hell — how  is  it  proved  ? 

6.  How  the  necessity  of  conversion  is  to  be  declared  to  those  who  are 
merely  respectable  and  externally  Christians  ? 

June  16th,  a.  m. 

Nine  o'clock.  A  certain  Mr.  Paul  Hinkel,  in  the  name  of  several  con- 
gregations, earnestly  asked  for  license  to  preach  and  baptize  children. 

He  was  examined  in  Christian  doctrine  and  found  fairly  proficient, 
and  as  he  showed  evidence  of  a  Christian  character  and  life,  it  was  re- 
solved further  to  consider  his  case. 

Ten  o'clock.  The  preachers  again  went  to  church,  and  President 
Schulze,  preaching  on  II  Tim.  4:2  ff.,  presented  "  The  picture  of  an 
Evangelical  preacher,  who  fulfills  his  office  well." 

June  IGtti,  p.  m. 

There  appeared  a  man  named  Butler,  of  whom  mention  was  made  at 
the  last  Synodical  Meeting,  and  begged  earnestly  for  admission  into  the 
Ministerium.  As  his  character  before  his  assumption  of  the  ministerial 
office  was  very  poor,  indifferent,  and  furthermore,  no  signs  of  a  true 
improvement  were  noticed,  it  was  unanimously  resolved  : 

That  lie  must  forever  be  regarded  incapable  of  serving  in  the  minis- 
terial office. 

That  he  be  advised  to  serve  as  school  teacher. 

3  o'clock.  The  Protocol  of  the  preceding  year  was  read  and  signed, 
and  then  those  matters  handed  in  which  were  to  be  considered  and  dis- 
cussed this  time,  viz. :  1,  concerning  the  above-mentioned  Paul  Binkel  : 
2,  a  letter  from  Earltown  and  Strasburg ;  3,  a  letter  from  the  congre- 


188  DOCUMENTAKY  HISTOEY. 

gation  on  the  Jordan  ;  4,  a  letter  from  Manheim,  Mountjoy,  Elisabeth- 
town  and  Maytown  ;  5,  a  letter  from  Rev.  Mr.  Helmuth ;  6,  the  con- 
gregations in  Ober  Permudian,  Unter  Permudian,  Dover,  Paradise, 
Carlisle  and  Lower  Settlement ;  7,  the  new  Hymn  Book  and  Catechism ; 
.8,  a  question  from  Rev.  Mr.  Ernst ;  9,  A  letter  from  Rev.  Mr.  Moller ; 
10,  a  question  from  Rev.  Mr.  Schroeter ;  11,  Church  Penance ;  12,  spe- 
cial Conferences ;  14,  concerning  Mr.  Wade ;  14,  question  concerning 
the  Streit  legacy.  .  .  . 

After  mature  consideration  and  private  conferences  with  Mr.  Hinkel, 
it  was:  1.  Resolved,  To  grant  a  license  for  preaching  and  the  baptism 
of  children,  and  give  it  to  Pastor  Krug,  who  shall  give  it  to  Mr.  Hinkel 
as  soon  as  he  can  show  a  regular  call  from  one  and  the  other  of  the  dis- 
tant congregations  and  has  signed  a  suitable  "  revers."  The  contents  of 
the  revers  are : 

(1).  To  preach  the  Word  of  God  in  its  purity,  according  to  Law  and 
Gospel,  as  it  is  explained  in  its  chief  points  in  the  Ausburg  Confession 
and  the  other  Symbolical  Books. 

(2).  Diligently  to  instruct  children,  visit  the  sick,  care  for  souls  and 
administer  Holy  Baptism  according  to  the  command  of  Christ. 

(3).  Diligently  to  exercise  himself  in  knowledge. 

(4).  To  adorn  his  office  with  a  Christian  life. 

(5).  Not  to  leave  or  go  beyond  the  congregations  which  were  entrusted 
to  him  in  the  license. 

(6).  To  record  the  most  noteworthy  occurrences  of  his  ministry  in  a 
journal  and  annually  present  this  to  the  Synodical  Meeting,  also  to  ap- 
pear personally  as  often  as  asked. 

(7).  To  renew  the  license  annually. 

2.  Earltown  asks  to  be  supplied  with  a  preacher,  and  Strasburg 
desires  to  share  in  the  services  of  this  preacher. 

Resolved,  that  they  be  free  to  apply  to  any  one  of  the  preachers  in 
the  Ministerium,  as  none  of  the  brethren  present  has  decided  to  take 
the  place. 

3.  The  congregations  on  the  Jordan  also  asked  for  a  preacher,  as  they 
had  been  deserted  by  their  former  pastor. 

Resolved,  to  return  the  same  answer  as  above,  and  recommend  them 
to  the  neighboring  pastors. 

4.  The  congregations  at  Manheim,  etc.,  asked  for  Rev.  Mr.  Moller 
in  particular,  which  was  granted  them,  with  the  admonition  to  apply  to 
him  directly,  and  to  make  better  provision  for  their  preacher  than  here- 
tofore. 

6.  These  congregations  are  at  present  vacant,  since  their  former 
pastor,  Rev.   Mr.  Gering,  has  moved   to  Yorktown,  to  become   the 


THIRTY-SIXTH  CONVENTION,  1783.  189 

assistant  of  his  father-in-law,  Pastor  Kurz.  They  evidence  a  desire  for 
Rev.  Mr.  Ernst.  They  were  referred  to  him,  with  the  assurance  that 
the  Ministcriuni  wished  them  great  blessing,  if  it  could  be  so  arranged 
to  the  satisfaction  of  both  parties. 

Rev.  Mr.  Ernst  undertook  to  visit  these  congregations  on  his  way 
home. 

The  preachers  went  to  church  in  the  evening,  at  6  o'clock,  and  heard 
Mr.  Wade  preach  an  English  sermon,  on  Tit.  2 :  14. 

June  17tii,  a.  m. 

13.  Mr.  Wade  handed  in  his  answers  to  the  questions  given  him. 
They  were  not  quite  satisfactory,  especially  on  the  subject  of  the  Holy 
Communnion.     Hereupon  it  was  resolved  : 

That  the  whole  matter  be  referred  to  a  committee  of  five  preachers, 
who  shall  decide  it  conscientiously  according  to  their  best  knowledge. 
Their  instruction  reads  thus  : 

"  You  shall  desire  Mr.  Wade  to  call  once  or  twice  at  a  convenient 
time  at  your  own  respective  houses,  in  order  to  be  instructed  in  some  of 
the  doctrines  of  the  Evangelical  persuasion,  and  particularly  in  the 
proper  sense,  which  our  church  entertains  of  the  Lord's  Supper,  Bap- 
tism, Predestination,  etc.,  and  as  soon  as  you  find  him  sufficiently 
acquainted  therewith,  he  assuring  you  in  the  presence  of  God  of  the 
sincerity  of  his  persuasion  in  this  and  all  other  respects,  you  shall  ordain 
him  according  to  the  Ritual  of  our  Church,  and  take  such  a  revers,  as 
shall  be  prepared  for  that  purpose."  [The  English  verbatim  from  the 
Protocol]. 

The  committee  appointed  for  this  purpose  consists  of  the  Pastors — 
Senior  Miihlenberg,  Schmidt,  Helmuth,  Kunze  and  Streit,  who  all  or 
three  of  them  are  empowered  to  carry  out  this  resolution. 

5.  Rev.  Mr.  Helmuth's  letter  was  read,  in  which  he  reported  various 
circumstances  referring  to  the  new  Hymn  Book,  Prayer  Book  and  Cat- 
echism, therefore  the  seventh  point  was  immediately  taken  up. 

7.  Concerning  the  new  Hymn  Book  it  was  resolved:  (1).  That  the 
number  of  copies  be  fixed  at  1000;  (2).  The  Destruction  of  Jerusalem 
and  the  Catechism  of  Luther  remain  without  additions;  (3).  The 
Litany  to  be  transferred  into  the  Prayer  Book ;  (4).  The  committee 
appointed  last  year  shall  again  meet  on  the  second  Tuesday  in 
September  at  Philadelphia,  complete  the  entire  collection,  and  with 
the  consent  of  the  other  members  of  the  Ministerium  who  may 
be  present,  give  it  unto  the  hands  of  the  printer,  ami  that 
(5).    The   preface   prepared   by   Senior   Miihlenberg   be   printed   un- 


190  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

changed,  with  a  slight  addition  from  Pliny  concerning  the  hymns  of 
the  early  Christians. 

The  Catechism  shall  be  printed  as  decided  last  year.  Mr.  Kunze 
undertook  to  attend  to  this. 

8.  Rev.  Mr.  Ernst  asked  how  he  was  to  deal  with  certain  public 
slanderers,  whether  he  should  bring  them  before  the  authorities  or  not 
The  former  is  asked  for  by  the  majority  of  one  of  his  congregations. 
He  was  advised  — 

(1).  He  should  secure  a  testimonial  of  his  conduct  from  those  preach- 
ers who  had  most  come  in  contact  with  him  before  his  ordination.  Pas- 
tors Schulze,  Kunze  and  Muhlenberg  did  this  in  full  conviction  that  the 
accusations  were  groundless.  (2).  For  the  present  he  should  not  bring 
it  before  the  authorities,  but  for  Christ's  sake  bear  everything  in  patience. 
(3).  If  the  congregations  are  not  satisfied  with  these  decisions,  he  shall 
yield  in  God's  name,  and  accept  other  congregations  which  earnestly 
desire  him. 

9.  Rev.  Mr.  Moller  wrote  of  a  very  remarkable  blessing  in  his  con- 
gregations and  reported  something  concerning  the  Methodists  in  his 
neighborhood.  Pastor  Kunze  was  commissioned  to  convey  to  him  our 
gratification  with  the  progress  of  the  past,  and  also  to  remind  him  to  be 
careful  in  his  dealings  with  the  Methodists. 

June  17th,  p.  m. 

10.  Rev.  Mr.  Schroeter  asked  what  he  was  to  do  in  the  case  of  sev- 
eral congregations,  where  the  church  register  and  the  collections  are 
held  in  common  by  Lutherans  and  Reformed.  As  the  collections  are 
used  for  the  repair  and  preservation  of  the  church  building,  it  was  ad- 
vised that  for  the  sake  of  peace  which  is  so  necessary,  he  leave  every- 
thing in  statu  quo. 

11.  Concerning  Church  Penance. — After  much  discussion  the  reso- 
lution frequently  passed  was  renewed : 

That  whoever  has  openly  sinned  against  the  Sixth  Commandment  be 
excluded  from  the  Holy  Communion  and  right  to  stand  as  sponsor,  and 
not  be  restored  to  these  rights  until,  by  a  public  confession,  he  declare 
his  repentance. 

Various  questions  were  brought  up  in  connection  with  this,  e.  g., 
whether  illegimate  children  should  be  baptized  before  the  parents  or 
one  of  them  have  submitted  to  Church  Penance ;  but  these  questions 
were  postponed  for  further  consideration  at  some  future  time. 

12.  The  present  congregations  are  divided  into  Districts,  and  it  is 
most  earnestly  recommended  to  all  the  brethren,  that  they  renew  and 
maintain  Special  Conferences. 


THIRTY-SIXTH  CONVENTION,  1783.  191 

I.  Yorktown  District:  Yorktown,  two  preachers ;  MacCallister, 
two  preacheiB  ;  Friedrichstatt,  Dover,  Hegerstown,  Lancaster. 

II.  Lancaster  District:  Lancaster,  Earltown,  Manheim,  Tulpe- 
hocken,  Reading,  Misillum. 

III.  Macunshy  District  :  Macunahy,  Iudianfield,  Misillum,  Green- 
wich, Alleutown,  N.  Germantown,  New  Hanover. 

IV.  Philadelphia  District:  Philadelphia,  Germantown,  Pike- 
land,  New  Hanover,  Indianfield. 

V.  New  York  District. 

14.  With  reference  to  the  Streit  legacy,  it  was  resolved : 

That  if  no  special  order  be  received  from  Germany,  it  be  annually 
divided  between  those  ordained  preachers  present  at  the  Synodical 
Meeting,  sick  and  old  preachers  excepted,  who,  as  well  as  each  widow 
of  a  regular  preacher,  shall  draw  their  full  share. 

At  this  time  Rev.  Mr.  Kuuze  asked  a  question  concerning  $400  in- 
terest due  on  the  above-mentioned  legacy,  for  which  he  and  Rev.  Mr. 
Helmuth  wrote,  but  which,  on  the  way,  was  taken  by  the  British. 

Resolved,  That  we  wait  for  further  directions  from  Germany — but 
the  preachers  present  promised  for  themselves,  that,  if  Prof.  Freyling- 
hausen  refused  it  to  Rev.  Messrs.  Kunze  and  Helmuth,  they  would  re- 
mit Mr.  Kunze's  share,  on  the  condition  that  he  take  a  young  man 
named  Schaefer,  and  keep  him  one  year,  board  free,  and  prepare  him 
for  the  ministry. 

Finally  all  the  preachers  bowed  before  God,  renewed  the  covenant 
of  faithfulness  to  their  Great  Shepherd,  and  of  brotherly  love  toward  one 
another ;  then  they  elected  Pastor  Schulze  President,  Rev.  Henr. 
Muhlenberg,  Jun.,  Secretary,  appointed  Lancaster  as  the  place  of  the  next 
Synodical  Meeting  on  the  Festival  of  the  Trinity,  1784,  and  for  the  last 
time  went  to  church,  where  they  were  edified  by  Rev.  Mr.  "Wildbahn, 
on  the  text  Acts  14  :  17,  and  dismissed  with  a  final  admonition  and 
benediction  by  Rev.  Mr.  Goering. 

That  the  above  was  done  at  a  Synodical  Meeting  held  at  Yorktown, 

we  witness. 

Emanuel  Schulze, 

p.  t.  President. 

Henry  Muhlenberg,  Jun., 

Secretary. 


THIRTY-SEVENTH   CONVENTION. 

1784. 
(June  7,  8.     Lancaster.) 


As  it  was  appointed  at  the  last  Synodical  Meeting  of  an  Evangelical 
Lutheran  Ministerium  held  at  Yorktown,  the  meeting  of  this  year 
opened  at  Lancaster  on  June  6th.  The  preachers  went  to  church  and 
Dr.  Kunze  edified  the  large  audience  from  the  Gospel  John  3  :  1  sqq. 

In  the  afternoon  Pastor  Krug  preached  on  Luke  13  :  23-24,  and  in 
the  evening  Pastor  Roller,  on  Heb.  12  :  15. 

June  7th,  at  9  o'clock,  A.  m.  Pastor  Schulze,  the  President,  preached 
on  James  1 :  22 ;  after  the  close  of  service  all  the  preachers  and  dele- 
gates went  to  the  school-house,  began  with  prayer,  and  the  following 
points  were  suggested  for  consideration : 

1.  Letters  from  Virginia,  to  wit :  Rockingham  County,  Shenandoah 
County,  Frederick  County ;  2,  a  letter  from  Rev.  Mr.  Helmuth  ;  3,  a 
letter  from  Rev.  Mr.  Moller ;  4,  letters  from  the  congregations  at  the 
Silver  Run  ;  5,  a  libelous  writing  of  a  vagabond  against  Rev.  Mr. 
Schwerdfeger ;  6,  Halle  report ;  7,  letters  from  Virginia,  to  wit. :  Win- 
chester, Woodstock  and  Strasburg ;  8,  questions  from  several  congre- 
gations in  Shamokin  ;  9,  recommendation  of  a  candidate  for  a  license  ; 
10,  question  concerning  the  admission  of  certain  persons  to  the  Lord's 
Supper;  11,  concerning  the  Streit  legacy ;  12,  concerning  the  Hymn- 
book  and  Catechism ;  13,  concerning  Dickinson  College  ;  14,  account 
of  a  new  University  at  New  York ;  15,  concerning  calling  of  new 
preachers  from  Germany  ;  16,  concerning  the  Ministerial  Order  and  the 
Church  Agende ;  17,  concerning  the  number  of  baptized,  confirmed, 
communicants  and  deceased. 

June  7th,  p.  m. 

All  the  preachers  assembled  in  the  parsonage,  viz.: 
P.  Nicolaus  Kurtz,  from  Yorktown. 
"  Wilhelm  Kurtz,  from  Lebanon. 
"  Ludwig  Voigt,  from  Pikeland. 
192 


THIRTY-SEVENTH  CONVENTION,   1784.  193 

P.  Andreas  Krug,  from  Friedericb's  stadt. 
"■  Eiuanuel  Schulze,  from  Tulpehocken. 
"  Carl.  Fredk.  Wildbahn,  from  Reading. 
"  Joh.  Christoph.  Kunze,  from  Philadelphia. 
"  Christian  Btreit,  from  New  Hanover. 
"  Conrad  Roeller,  from  Indianfield. 
"  Jacob  Goering,  from  Yorktown. 
"  Daniel  Lehman,  from  Misillum. 
"  Daniel  Schroeter,  from  McAllister. 
"  Frederick  Ernst,  from  Greenwich. 

I  myself,  Henrieh  Miihlenberg,  Jun.,  Pastor  Loci,  Catechist  Paul 
Hinckel,  from  Virginia  with  four  delegates. 

First  of  all,  the  Protocol  of  the  preceding  convention  was  read,  and 
several  points  were  explained  and  more  fully  defined,  especially  con- 
corning  Church  Penance,  that  open  transgressors  against  the  Sixth  Com- 
mandment shall  rise,  in  a  public  confession  and  give  evidence  of  their 
repentance;  also,  that  illegitimate  children  should  be  baptized  even  if 
the  parents  have  not  submitted  to  Church  Penance. 

N.  1.  Then  No.  1  was  taken  up.  The  lettei*s  contained  the  request  to 
ordain  Mr.  Paul  Hinckel,  or  at  least  extend  his  license.  Mr.  Hinckel 
was  again  examined  in  writing,  and  thereupon  it  was  resolved  to  extend 
his  license  for  one  year,  and  to  exhort  the  congregations  by  a  circular 
letter,  to  prepare  a  call  for  a  preacher  and  entrust  it  to  the  Ministerium, 
which  will  not  fail  to  transmit  it  to  Europe. 

N.  2.  Rev.  Mr.  Helmuth  gave  a  satisfactory  excuse  for  his  absence; 
communicated  some  sad  news  from  Germany  ;  recommended  a  thorough 
and  scholarly  education  of  our  youth;  asked  whether  a  certain  sermon 
of  Luther  should  not  be  reprinted,  and  desired  a  more  detailed  account 
of  the  use  to  be  made  of  the  Streit  Legacy.  In  reference  to  the  last ,  it  was 
resolved,  that  after  deducting  £17  for  printing  the  Ministerial  Order  and 
the  Church  Agende,  500  thalers,  i.  e.  £125,  be  divided  among  the  preach- 
ers present,  and  Senior  Muhlenberg,  Revs.  Helmuth  and  Moller,  who 
had  excused  their  absence,  and  Widow  Schaum. 

At  evening  time,  all  the  members  went  to  the  church,  and  Rev.  Mr. 
Goering  edified  the  congregation  with  an  exposition  of  Job.  7 :  38. 

June  8th,  a.m. 
No.  2.  Rev.  Mr.  Helmuth's  letter  was  again  taken  up,  and  two  ques- 
tions answered. 

(1.)  Whether  the  preachers  wished,  at  their  expense,  to  print  a  BermoQ 
of  Luther?  It  was  declined  for  the  present,  on  account  of  the  hard 
times. 

13 


194  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

(2.)  What  should  be  done  with  reference  to  400  thalers,  interest  on  the 
Streit  legacy,  of  which  mention  was  made  last  year  ?  It  was  resolved 
that  the  preachers  in  Philadelphia  should  not  be  pressed  for  this  money, 
on  condition  that  they  pay  over  as  much  as  they  could  recover. 

No.  3.  Rev.  Mr.  Moller  gave  a  sufficient  excuse  for  his  absence,  and 
expressed  a  desire  to  withdraw  from  teaching  in  Philadelphia,  and 
devote  himself  entirely  to  pastoral  work.  Dr.  Kunze  added  verbally 
that  Mr.  Moller  would  probably  accept  the  congregation  at  Albania. 

No.  4.  The  written  communications  from  Silver  Run  contained  com- 
plaints against  Rev.  Mr.  Schroeter,  made  by  two  elders,  and  his  defence, 
signed  by  some  others.  It  was  resolved  to  hold  a  Special  Conference 
near  that  place,  and  the  neighboring  preachers  were  appointed  a  com- 
mittee to  examine  into  the  matter  more  closely. 

No.  5.  The  libellous  writing  was  not  read  in  public,  because  of  the 
shortness  of  the  time.  One  Fredk.  Aug.  "Walberg,  who  preaches  in 
New  York,  is  the  author,  and  the  entire  document  is  unchristian  and 
ungodly. 

No.  6.  The  Halle  Report  shall  be  distributed  to  all  the  preachers. 

No.  7.  They  urgently  asked  for  a  preacher :  they  are  numerous  and 
well  able  to  support  a  preacher,  and  it  is  to  be  desired  that  they  may 
be  cared  for,  because  then  many  surrounding  districts,  which  are  full  of 
neglected  Lutherans,  may  find  some  help  and  refuge. 

Resolved,  that  Rev.  Mr.  Kurtz,  Sen.,  or  if  he  is  too  weak,  Rev.  Mr. 
Goering,  visit  the  congregations. 

No.  8.  Various  persons  from  Shamokin  asked  verbally  whether  some 
other  preacher  than  Catechist  Enderlein  may  not  hold  Communion 
Service,  as  they  are  not  satisfied  with  him.  They  were  advised  against 
it,  but  permission  was  granted  to  ask  Rev.  Mr.  Kurtz,  Jun.,  for  a  visit- 
ing sermon,  who  might  then  investigate  the  matter. 

No.  9.  The  candidate  recommended  is  Mr.  Daniel  Kurtz,  a  son  of 
the  venerable  Mr.  Kurtz,  of  Yorktown.  He  had  been  instructed  for 
almost  three  years  in  languages,  theological  and  other  sciences,  and  his 
teacher,  Rev.  Muhlenberg,  of  Lancaster,  gave  him  a  good  testimonial, 
in  reference  to  his  diligence  and  good  character,  and  requested  that  he 
be  examined  and  granted  a  license.  Hereupon  he  was  brought  forward 
and  examined.  Pastor  Voigt  started  with  Hebrew,  and  had  the  First 
Psalm  translated,  and  asked  various  grammatical  questions.  He  also 
had  Matth.  28:  19,  20,  translated  and  explained.  Dr.  Kunze  examined 
him  farther  in  Greek,  and  Rev.  1:  1-6,  and  Heb.  11:  1,  21,  were 
translated. 

The  gentlemen  present  expressed  their  satisfaction,  and  gave  him  the 
following  questions  to  be  answered  in  writing : 


THIRTY-SEVENTH   CONVENTION,  1784.  195 

(1.)  How  is  it  proved  that  Christ  was  not  merely  a  teacher  of  men,  but 
also  offered  a  true  satisfaction  for  men? 

(2.)   What  are  the  works  and  benefits  of  the  Holy  Spirit? 

(3.)  By  what  evidence  do  men  know  that  they  are  converted? 

(4.)  How  is  the  baptism  of  children  proved  ? 

(5.)  How  is  the  eternity  of  the  punishment  of  Hell  declared  ? 

(G.)  Are  the  Apostles  infallible  in  the  exposition  of  doctrine? 

No.  10.  1st  Question  :  Shall  persons  be  admitted  to  the  Lord's  Supper, 
who  have  been  instructed  and  confirmed  by  self-made,  uneducated 
preachers  ?  Answer :  Not  without  first  carefully  examining,  and  con- 
firming them. 

2nd  Question :  Whether  a  testimonial  shall  be  required  of  every 
stranger,  admitting  him  to  the  Lord's  Supper  (at  least  in  the  case  of 
residents)  ? 

Resolved,  to  leave  this  to  the  wisdom  and  conscience  of  each  preacher, 
inasmuch  as  this  cannot  be  generally  carried  out  in  this  country. 

June  8th,  p.m. 

No.  11.  Rev.  Muhlenberg  gave  to  the  preachers  their  share  of  the 
interest — seventeen  preachers  and  one  preacher's  widow  each  received 
£6.  The  remaining  £17  was  paid  to  Dr.  Kunze,  in  order  to  have  the 
Ministerial  Order,  and  the  Church  Agende  printed.  For  this,  Rev.  Mr. 
Helmuth  had  handed  in  £83,  and  Rev.  Muhlenberg,  in  Lancaster,  £12, 
according  to  their  account  in  Germany. 

No.  12.  Concerning  the  Hymn  Book,  resolved  to  make  another 
effort,  and  if  Mr.  Steiner  refuse,  to  try  another  printer.  The  preachers 
promised  to  buy  from  the  printer  as  soon  as  it  is  published,  as  follows 

Pastors  Kurtz,  Sen.,  50  copies  ;  Voigt,  50  ;  Schulze,  50  ;  Kunze,  50 
Miihlenberg,  50  ;  Lehman,  50 ;  Streit,  50  ;  Roeller,  50 ;  Schroeter,  50 
Goering,  50  ;  Ernst,  50. 

Many  of  those  absent  will  certainly  take  the  same  number,  and  Dr. 
Kunze  promised  this  in  particular  for  Rev.  Mr.  Helmuth — 50. 

No.  13.  A  letter  from  the  Trustees  of  the  new  College  at  Carlisle,  in 
which  they  ask  assistance  for  their  Institution.  The  Trustees  present  in 
our  Ministerium,  Pastors  Kurtz,  Sen.,  Schulze  and  Muhlenberg,  were 
commissioned  to  answer  orally,  promising  our  assistance  and  support 
through  contributions  and  recommendations. 

No.  14.  Dr.  Kunze  made  a  report  concerning  a  new  university  in 
New  York. 

No  15.  Whether  and  how  preachers  are  to  be  called  from  Germany? 
The  harvest  is  great,  and  the  laborers  are  few.  We  consider  it  abso- 
lutely necessary  to  call  at  least  two  new  ones.   To  furnish  the  travelling 


196  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY 

expense  is  one  of  the  greatest  difficulties.  Resolved  to  ask  our  Fathers 
to  use  the  interest  of  the  Streit  legacy  for  this  purpose,  if  there  are  no 
other  funds  in  Germany,  until  it  becomes  easier  to  make  the  necessary 
collections  here,  either  in  individual  congregations,  or  in  all. 

No.  16.  The  Ministerial  Order  and  Church  Agende  shall  be  printed 
as  soon  as  possible,  in  two  parts  winch  may  be  bound  separately.  Dr. 
Kunze  undertook  to  attend  to  this. 

No.  17.  Each  preacher  brings  or  sends  a  yearly  account  of  the  Bap- 
tized, Confirmed,  Communicants  and  Buried  from  one  New  Year  to  the 
next.     The  reports  of  this  year  are  still  very  imperfect : 

(1.)  H.  Muhlenberg,  in  Lancaster,  January  1,  1783-1784,  baptized 
211,  among  these  5  adults,  confirmed  66,  buried  40,  and  administered 
Communion  to  615. 

(2.)  Rev.  Mr.  Wildbahn,  in  Reading,  baptized  61,  confirmed  44,  com- 
municants 436,  buried  54 — among  these  many  Reformed — except 
among  communicants — because  their  preacher  is  sick. 

(3.)  Rev.  Mr.  Ernst,  gave  the  entire  account  since  November  26th} 
1783,  till  June,  1784:  Baptized  350,  confirmed  225,  communicants 
1200,  died  31. 

(4.)  Rev.  Roeller,  January  1, 1783-1784 :  Baptized  77,  confirmed  23, 
communicants  537,  died  19. 

(5.)  Rev.  Lehman,  June,  1783-1784  :  Baptized  182,  confirmed  91, 
died  27. 

(6.)  Rev.  Schroeter,  in  8  congregations :  Baptized  162,  communi- 
cants 629,  died  6. 

Next  year  we  hope  that  fuller  reports  will  be  made. 

The  candidate,  Mr.  Daniel  Kurtz,  presented  his  answers  to  the  ques- 
tions given  him,  and  the  Ministerium  decided  that  they  were  thorough 
and  satisfactory,  and  granted  him  a  license  to  administer  the  Word 
and  Sacraments  in  congregations  to  which  the  elder  Pastor  Kurtz 
might  send  him.  The  license  is  valid  until  the  next  Synodical  Meet- 
ing. 

After  the  above  questions  were  discussed,  the  President  was  charged 

fraternally  and  earnestly  to  exhort  the  absent  members to  attend 

more  faithfully,  as  it  is  the  intention  hereafter  to  adhere  closely  to  the 
Ministerial  Order,  which  (Chap.  5,  §§  2, 3, 4,)  declares  very  specifically 
against  such  negligence.  The  President  shall  communicate  or  have 
communicated  a  copy  of  these  sections  to  those  absent,  in  order  that 
they  may  know  the  mind  of  their  brethren. 

Finally  they  proceeded  to  the  appointing  of  a  place  and  time  for  our 
next  meeting,  and  to  the  election  of  a  President  and  Secretary. 

The  next  Synodical  Convention  shall  be  held  at  Philadelphia  on  the 


THIRTY-SEVENTH  CONVENTION,   1784.  197 

Festival  of  the  Trinity,  1785.  Pastor  Schultze,  President,  and  Rev. 
Mr.  Ilelmuth,  Secretary. 

Then  all  the  preachers  bowed  down  before  God,  and  commended 
themselves  and  their  congregations  to  the  Great  Shepherd  and  Bishop  of 
our  souls,  once  more  went  to  church,  and  heard  Rev.  Mr.  Kurz,  Sen., 
preach  on  Mark.  16 :  16  sq.,  and  were  dismissed  by  the  jxwtor  loci  with 
the  Benediction. 

That  the  above  thus  took  place,  we  witness : 

Emanuel  Schultze, 
Henr.  Muhlenberg,  Jun.,  p.  t.  President. 

Secretary. 


THIRTY-EIGHTH   CONVENTION. 

1785. 

May  22-24. — Philadelphia. 


On  the  20th  and  21st  of  May,  the  members  of  the  Rev.  Ministerium 
arrived  gradually.  Rev.  Goering  preached  in  St.  Michael's  Church,  on 
Friday  evening,  on  John  14:  23.  "  Of  the  sure  results  of  the  love  of 
Jesus."     1.  The  love  of  Jesus ;  2.  Its  sure  results. 

On  Saturday  evening,  Mr.  Daniel  Kurz,  preached  in  St.  Michael's, 
on  Heb.  12:  15,  theme:  "  Warning  against  the  delay  of  conversion." 
1.  What  it  is  to  delay  conversion ;  2.  The  warning. 

Sunday,  May  22d. 

In  the  forenoon,  Rev.  Muhlenberg,  Jun.,  preached  in  Zion's,  on  John 
21 :  15-17.     "  It  is  the  will  of  Jesus  that  we  love  Him  and  His  cause." 

1.  He  wills  that  we  love  Him ;  2.  Love  His  cause. 

In  St.  Michael's,  Rev-  Schroeter  preached  in  II  Tim.  1:9.  "  God's 
great  and  gracious  call  to  men."    1.  Its  character;  2.  Its  means. 

In  the  afternoon,  Mr.  Lehman  preached  on  Col.  3 :  15.  "  Pious 
thoughts  of  peace."  1.  The  nature  of  the  peace  of  the  soul;  2.  Its 
origin. 

In  St.  Michael's,  Mr.  Wilhelm  Kurz  preached  on  Ephes.  2 :  4,  5. 
"The  divine  gift  of  grace."     1.  Wherein  it  consists  in  making  alive; 

2.  Its  pure  fountain,  v.  4. 

In  the  evening,  Mr.  Schmidt  preached  in  Zion's,  on  Galat,  6 :  15. 
"  The  change  of  heart  necessary  to  salvation." 

Monday,  May  23d,  a.  m. 

The  preachers  present  assembled  in  the  vestry-room  of  Zion's  Church 
at  9  o'clock,  viz. : 

1.  Rev.  Mr.  Schulze,  from  Tulpehocken. 

2.  "         W.  Kurz,  from  Lebanon. 

3.  Rev.  Dr.  Helmuth,  pastor  loci. 

4.  Rev.  Mr.  Schmidt,  from  Germantown. 

5.  "         Muhlenberg,  Jun.,  from  Lancaster. 

6.  "        Streit,  from  New  Hanover. 
198 


THIRTY-EIGHTH  CONVENTION,  1785.  199 

7.  Rev.  Mr.  Busskerk,  from  Macunschy. 

8.  "         Roller,  from  Goschenhoppen. 

9.  *'         Jung,  from  Hagerstown. 

10.  "  Wildbahn,  from  Reading. 

11.  "  Goeriug,  from  Yorktown. 

12.  "  Lehman,  from  Mosillum. 

13.  "  Schroeter,  from  MacAUistertown. 

14.  "  Ernst,  from  Greenwich. 

15.  "  Melzheimer,  from  Manheim. 

16.  "  Candidate  Daniel  Kurz,  from  Yorktown. 

17.  "  Hartung  also  attended. 

The  following  members  sent  excuses,  either  written  or  verbal.  Senior 
Muhlenberg,  Krug,  Kurtz,  Sr.,  Voigt. 

In  the  hour  from  9  to  10  A.  m.,  Rev.  Mr.  Schulze  preached  on  James 
1 :  22,  23.  "  The  correct  and  salutary  use  of  God's  Word."  1.  Wherein 
it  consists  ;  2.  To  apply  it. 

After  the  close  of  service  all  the  preachers  and  delegates  from  several 
congregations  went  to  the  vestry-room,  opened  the  conference  with 
prayer,  and  handed  in  the  following  points  for  consideration. 

1.  Delegates  from  Egypt,  Heidelberg  and  Lindon  in  Northampton 
County  petitioned  that  Mr.  Schelhard  he  ordained  as  their  preacher ; 
2.  A  paper  from  the  congregation  in  Yorktown  ;  3.  A  paper  from 
Tulpehocken ;  4.  A  paper  from  Maryland,  from  Mr.  Schroeter's  con- 
gregations; 5.  A  paper  from  Mr.  Kurz,  Sen.;  6.  A  paper  from  Senior 
Muhlenberg ;  7.  A  paper  from  Carlisle ;  8.  A  paper  from  Sheppards- 
town  in  Virginia;  9.  A  paper  from  Mr.  Liitge ;  10.  A  pro  memoria 
referring  to  Mr.  Ilenkel ;  11.  A  pro  memoria  from  New  Hanover  ;  12. 
The  matter  of  Anton  Hecht's  call ;  13.  From  New  Holland  ;  14.  From 
Pawlingskill ;  15.  Rev.  Mr.  Melzheimer  desires  to  be  received  into  the 
Ministerium  ;  16.  Mr.  Busskerk  has  something  to  present. 

Mr.  Helmuth,  who  was  chosen  Secretary  at  the  last  Synodieal  Meet- 
ing, put  Mr.  Schmidt  in  his  place  on  account  of  his  being  overburdened 
with  work. 

No.  15  was  taken  up  first  and  unanimously  resolved,  that  Mr.  Melz- 
heimer be  received  into  the  United  Ministerium. 

1.  Resolved,  that  the  petition  of  the  congregations  in  Egypt,  etc., 
could  not  yet  be  granted,  because  most  of  the  members  of  the  Minis- 
terium did  not  know  Mr.  Schelhard  sufficiently. 

3.  The  Protocol  <>f  the  last  conference  was  read. 

In  connection  with  this,  the  question  was  asked,  how  matters  .-t 1  in 

reference  to  the  publication  of  the  new  Hymn  Book?     Answer  :     h  is 


200  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

in  press.  The  following  gentlemen  also  promised  to  take  copies: 
Mr.  Schmidt  50,  Mr.  Busskerk  50,  Mr.  Wildbahn  50,  Mr.  Roller  50, 
Mr.  Melzheimer  50,  Mr.  Jung  50,  Mr.  Wilhelm  Kurz  50,  Mr.  Daniel 
Kurz  50.     Further,  it  was 

Resolved,  that  Messrs.  Helmuth,  Schmidt,  W.  Kurz,  Muhlenberg,  Jun., 
be  a  committee  to  reduce  the  number  of  the  hymns,  and  Messrs.  HeL 
muth  and  Schmidt  were  commissioned  to  alter  and  shorten  many  of  the 
hymns,  and  attend  to  the  printing  of  the  Hymn  Book. 

Resolved,  that  Messrs.  Helmuth,  Schmidt  and  Muhlenberg,  Jun., 
make  some  changes  in  the  Church  Agende,  and  that  Mr.  Helmuth  then 
have  400  copies  in  octavo,  and  100  copies  with  wide  margin  printed. 

No.  11.  The  letter  was  read:  New  Hanover  and  the  congregations 
united  with  it,  desire  to  have  Mr.  Nicolaus  Kurz  or  Mr.  Goring  as  their 
preacher ;  therefore,  resolved,  that  these  gentlemen  answer  the  congre- 
gations. 

The  morning  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

Monday,  May  23d,  p.m. 

At  2  o'clock  the  preachers  assembled  in  Rev.  Helmuth's  home,  and 
after  prayer  continued  their  Synodical  work. 

No.  3.  The  congregations  in  Tulpehocken  requested  in  writing  and 
through  delegates,  that  Mr.  Schulze  might  not  be  taken  from  them.  As 
Mr.  Schulze  received  a  call  from  Philadelphia  a  year  ago,  but  to  the 
present  has  given  no  decisive  answer  as  to  whether  he  is  willing  to  move 
to  Philadelphia  or  not,  the  whole  matter  was  referred  to  him. 

No.  4.  After  the  communication  from  Zion's  Church,  in  Baltimore 
City,  with  its  complaints  against  Mr.  Schroter,  was  read,  and  the  matter 
considered,  it  was 

Resolved,  that  the  congregation  be  informed  that  the  Ministerium  has 
told  Mr.  Schroter  its  opinion  in  reference  to  the  matter,  and  hopes  that 
he  will  act  in  accordance  with  the  counsel  given,  and  that  thereby  peace 
and  unity  may  be  restored. 

No.  5.  Mr.  Nicolaus  Kurz  reports,  in  his  letter,  that  he  is  much  con- 
cerned about  several  congregations  beyond  the  Susquehanna,  and  sug- 
gests a  young  man,  who  could  be  used  there  as  catechist.  Hereupon 
it  was 

Resolved,  the  Ministerium  has  no  objections  to  the  proposition  of  Mr. 
Kurz,  but  leaves  it  entirely  in  his  hands,  where  and  how  he  can  and  will 
use  him  with  benefit. 

No.  12.  The  matter  of  the  call  of  Mr.  Hecht :  The  congregations  at 
Tohicon,  Upper  Dublin  and  North  Wales  desire  to  have  Mr.  Hecht, 
who  formerly  kept  school,  as  their  preacher,  and  petition  the  Ministerium 


THIRTY-EIGHTH  CONVENTION,  1785.  201 

to  ordain  him.  Mr.  Hecht  himself  was  not  present,  and  only  a  few 
members  of  the  Ministerium  know  him  ;  therefore  answer  was  made  to 
the  congregations  that  their  request  could  not  be  granted. 

The  Conference  was  closed  with  prayer. 

At  .wiling  service,  Mr.  Melzheimer  preached  on  Rom.  1  :  16:  "The 
Gospel  a  power  of  God  unto  salvation.  1.  How  it  is  called  a  power; 
2.  lor  whom?" 

Tuesday,  May  24th,  a.m. 

No.  7.  The  congregation  in  Carlisle  asks  earnestly  for  a  preacher, 
as  also 

No.  8.  The  congregation  at  Scheppardstown,  in  Virginia.  But  by 
reason  of  the  lack  of  preachers,  no  assistance  could  be  given.  Mr. 
Nicolaus  Kurz  was  charged  to  assist  them  as  much  as  possible. 

No.  10.  A  pro  memoria  concerning  Mr.  Hinkel  was  read,  and  there- 
upon resolved,  that  his  license  be  renewed  for  one  year,  and  that  Rev. 
Mr.  Jung  assist  him  as  much  as  possible. 

No.  9.  Mr.  Liitge,  who  had  been  ordained  by  a  preacher  named 
Meyer,  asked  in  writing  for  admission  into  the  Ministerium.  But  it  was 
resolved  that  the  United  Ministerium  did  not  want  to  have  anything 
further  to  do  with  him. 

No.  13.  The  congregations  iu  New  Holland  reported  that  they  were 
without  a  preacher,  and  had  sent  a  call  to  Mr.  Goring,  but  had  not  yet 
received  a  decisive  answer.  Mr.  Goring  appeared  to  have  no  desire  to 
accept  this  call. 

No.  1-4.  The  congregation  at  Pawlingskill  has  some  complaints 
against  its  preacher,  Mr.  Ernst,  and  requests  that  we  ordain  one  named 
Carl  Benjamin  Tannapfel  to  be  their  preacher. 

Resolved,  that  this  request  cannot  be  granted.  Mr.  Ernst  was  frater- 
nally admonished  that  he,  on  his  part,  give  no  occasion  for  complaint  or 
disturbance. 

No.  1G.  Between  Mr.  Buskirk  and  Mr.  Lehman  some  difficulties  had 
arisen  concerning  a  newly-built  church.     It  was  therefore 

//<  <<h-t  tl,  that  no  preacher  belonging  to  the  Ministerium,  should  accept 
a  congregation,  which  was  only  one  or  two  miles  distant  from  a  church 
Berved  by  a  member  of  the  Ministerium ;  except  with  the  consent  of  the 
regular  pastor. 

Tuesday,  May  24th,  p.m. 

The  following  gentlemen  reported  the  number  of  baptized,  confirmed, 
communicants,  and  buried  iu  their  respective  congregations  during  the 
past  year ; 


Communi- 

Baptized. 

Confirmed. 

cants. 

Buried. 

423 

165 

2000  x 

204 

170 

80 

660 

— 

137 

57 

531 

43 

179 

66 

627 

46 

68 

87 

483 

27 

219 

237 

929 

36 

140 

113 

678 

17 

153 

73 

630 

24 

70 

42 

427 

25 

160 

83 

— 

— 

205 

72 

— 

33 

163 

150 

450 

10 

75 

,     3 

— 

7 

202  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 


1.  Helmuth,  Philadelphia     . 

2.  Wilhelm  Kurz,  in  Lebanon 

3.  Schmidt,  in  Germantown 

4.  Muhlenberg,  in  Lancaster 

5.  Roller,  in  Goschenhoppen. 

6.  Jung,  in  Hegerstown,  1782 

1783 
1784 

7.  Wildbahn,  in  Reading 

8.  Goring,  in  Yorktown 

9.  Lehmann,  in  Mosillum     . 

10.  Schroter,  in  MacAllistertown 

11.  Ernst,  in  Greenwich 

Mr.  Helmuth  reported  to  the  Synodical  Meeting  that  he  had  received 
the  accounts  of  the  interest  of  the  Streit  Legacy  from  Halle,  and  that 
according  to  these  accounts  the  remainder  of  the  reported  interest  was 
to  be  distributed  to  the  preachers ;  and,  therefore,  requested  that  the 
Ministerium  appoint  a  committee  to  audit  the  above  accounts  of  the 
2nd  of  Nov.,  1784,  signed  by  Inspector  Fabricius,  and  make  a  report. 
Thereupon  it  was  resolved,  that  Messrs.  Schulze,  Schmidt,  and  Muhlen- 
berg, Jun.,  be  a  committee  to  attend  to  the  above. 

This  committee  found,  after  due  investigation,  that  according  to  the 
reported  accounts,  there  remained  for  distribution  672  thalers,  3  groschen 
and  8  pfenige. 

This  sum,  it  is  shown  by  the  above  accounts,  is  to  be  paid  by  the 
following  gentlemen : 

Thai-  Gros-  Pfen- 
ers.  ehen.  ige. 

1.  Mr.  Helmuth  had  money  paid  to  his  mother  in  Germany     50  00  00 

2.  Mr.  Kunze  had  money  paid  to  his  brothers  in  Germany     50  00  00 

3.  Mr.  Schulze  had  money  paid  to  his  mother  in  Germany  178  00  00 

4.  Mr.  Muhlenberg,  Jun.,  had  money  paid  to  the  Orphan- 

house  and  Profess.  Knapp    .         .         .         .         .     14     00     00 

5.  Helmuth,  on  the  book  account,  95  pounds,  Pennsyll. 

currency,  @  4  th.,  make 380     00     00 

672     00     00 
This  sum  was  applied  as  follows : 
1.  Mr,  Helmuth  paid  the  50  th.  paid  to  his  mother,  and 
of  the  380  th.  to  the  preachers  at  this  Synodical 
Meeting,  90  pounds  Pens,  cur.,  make  .         .         .  360     00     00 

1  About  2000. 


13 

16 

00 

3 

00 

00 

14 

00 

00 

178 

00 

00 

50 

00 

00 

THIRTY-EIGHTH  CONVENTION,  1785.  203 

Further,  tuition  for  four  academical  students,  according 
to  receipts  from  the  Trustees  of  the  University  in 
Philadelphia,  £17  6s.  8d.  make    .        .        .        .     69      8    00 

And  retained,  with  the  consent  of  the  Ministerium,  for 

printing  the  Church  Agende         .         .         .         .     14     00     00 

As  the  Seminary  was  discontinued,  Mr.  Helmuth  intends 
to  apply  the  13  th.  16  gr.  appropriated  for  it,  as 
tuition  money  in  the  academy  for  a  certain  Zentler, 
who  formerly  was  in  the  Seminary,  since  be  believes 
by  this  means  he  will  come  nearest  to  fulfilling  the 
intention  of  Mr.  Kunze        ..... 

To  the  heirs  of  Handschuh,  according  to  above  accounts. 

2.  Mr.  Miihlenberg  paid  his  14  th.  to  the  preachers  present 

3.  Mr.  Schulze  promised  also  to  pay  his  178  th.,  for  which 

some  of  the  preachers  accept  a  draft  on  him 

4.  Mr.  Kunze  has  not  yet  paid  his  50  th. 

702     00     00 
According  to  the  above  acccounts  there  were  to  distribute 

subtr. 672 

Since  the  entire  sum  partly  paid  and  distributed,  and 

partly  still  to  be  paid  amounts  to  702  th.,  Mr. 

Helmuth  advanced       .         .         .         •         •         .     30 l 

The  accounts  sent  from  Halle  were  also  presented  to  the  Ministerium 
in  the  original. 

The  above,  referring  to  the  accounts  is,  at  the  special  order  of  the 
appointed  committee  and  the  Synodical  Meeting,  attested  by 

Joh.  Friedrich  Schmidt, 

Secretary. 

Upon  motion,  it  was  resolved,  that  it  was  unnecessary  and  difficult  to 
invite  the  preachers  in  writing  to  each  Synodical  Meeting,  since  the 
meeting  is  held  annually  on  the  Festival  of  the  Trinity,  and  the  place  is 
always  decided  upon  beforehand,  and  because  it  is  impossible  to  forward 
the  letters  to  the  respective  preachers. 

Thereupon  the  preachers  present  proceeded  to  the  appointment  of  the 
place  for  the  meeting  of  next  year,  to  the  election  of  a  President  and  a 
Secretary  for  the  following  year;  by  a  majority  of  votes,  Philadelphia 
was  again  chosen  as  the  place  of  meeting,  Dr.  Helmuth,  President,  and 
Mr.  Schmidt,  Secretary. 

1  The  remainder,  30  th.,  is  not  advanced,  but  makes  up  the  55  pounds  sterling, 
for  which  Mr.  Helmuth  received  goods  from  Holland  through  Mr.  Bell,  while  Mr. 
Kunze  had  counted  them  as  paid  for  in  cash. 


204 


DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 


In  closing,  all  the  preachers  bent  their  knees  before  God,  and  the 
President  closed  with  prayer. 

In  the  evening,  Mr.  Wildbahn  preached  on  Mark  16 :  19  :  "Of  the 
worship  which  we  owe  to  the  Saviour  who  sits  at  the  Right  Hand  of 
God,"  and  Mr.  Helmuth,  as  pastor  loci,  dismissed  all  the  preachers  with 
a  benediction. 

That  the  above  thus  happened,  is  witnessed  by 

Emanuel  Schulze, 

P.  t.  Prseses. 

Joh.  Friederich  Schmidt, 
P.  t.  Secretary. 

Appendix  to  the  Synodical  Meeting  op  1785. 
Names  of  those  to  whom  the  above-mentioned  sums  were  distributed : 

Pounds  Pennsylvania  Gros- 

currency.  Thalers.     chen.  Pfenige 

1.  Mr.  Helmuth  paid  in  cash — 

To  Mr.  Buskirk 6  making  24  00  00 

"         Ernst 6  "  24  00  00 

"         Melzheimer 6  "  24  00  00 

"         Schroter 6  "  24  00  00 

"         Lehman 6  "  24  00  00 

Schmidt 6  "  24  00  00 

Roller 6  "  24  00  00 

Goring 6  "  24  00  00 

Dan.  Kurz 6  "  24  00  00 

Jung 6  "  24  00  00 

Hartwig 6  "  24  00  00 

"         Friederici,  through  Mr.  Bus- 
kirk    6  "  24  00  00 

"         Kurz,  Sen.,  through  his  son 

Daniel  K.     .    ,    .    .    .    .  6  "  24  00  00 

"         Streit '6  «  24  00  00 

"         Voigt,  through  Mr.  Streit  6  "  24  00  00 

2.  Mr.  Schulze  promised  to  pay  to  the  following : 

To  Mr.  Sen.  Muhlenberg 6  making  24  00  00 

"  Dr.  Helmuth 6         "  24  00  00 

"  For  his  own  share ,  6  "  24  00  00 

"  Willi.  Kurz 6  "  24  00  00 

"  Krug    .  • 6  «'  24  00  00 

"  Wildbahn •    •    .    .  6  "  24  00  00 

"  Widow  Schaum 6  "  24  00  00 


THIRTY-EIGHTH  CONVENTION,  1785.  205 

To  Mr.  Muhlenberg,  Jun.,  £2  10s., 
besides  what  is  to  be  paid  him, 

£3  10s 6  making        24        00        00 

"  Mr.  Helmuth  retained,  for  print- 
ing Agendo    310s."  14         00         00 

£141 10s."           566  00  00 

When  to  this  sum  is  added  (1)  the  above  tuition  fees     69  8  00 

(2)  13  th.  gr. ,  appointed  for  the  Seminary,  3, 

(3)  th.  for  the  Handschuh  heirs 16  16  00 

(4)  still  to  be  paid  by  Mr.  Kunze 50  00  00 

The  above  sum  results,  viz 702         00         00 

Besides  the  above  mentioned  50  th.,  Mr.  Kunze  owes  5  pounds  ster- 
ling, or  7  pounds,  10  shillings  Pennsylvania  currency,  making  together 
20  pounds  Penns.  cur.,  of  this  he  himself  takes  6  pounds,  the  remaining 
14  pounds  are  divided  into  24  equal  parts,  and  distributed  among  the 
preachers. 

J.  Friederich  Schmidt, 

P.  t.  Secretary. 

Philadelphia,  March  11,  1786. 
Received  from  Dr.  H.  Helmuth  the  sum  of  7  pounds,  10  shillings,  for 
binding  one  hundred  and  fifty  copies  of  the  Church  Agende  of  the 
Evangelical  Lutheran  Ministerium.     Received  by  us  £7  10s. 

Sam.  &  John  Baker. 


THIRTY-NINTH   CONVENTION. 


1786. 

June  11-14.    Philadelphia. 


On  June  9th  and  10th  the  members  of  the  Ministerium  arrived  grad- 
ually, and  Mr.  Kunze  preached  in  the  eveniug  in  Zion's  Church,  on 
Philippians  1:3."  The  good  confidence  of  the  ministers  of  the  Word." 
1.  The  object  of  their  confidence  ;  2.  The  ground  of  this  confidence. 

On  Saturday  evening,  Mr.  Daniel  Kurz  preached  on  I  Corinth.  2 : 
1-4.  "  The  teaching  of  Paul  concerning  Jesus  the  crucified."  1.  The 
human  race  is  perishing ;  2.  From  this  misery  Jesus  has  delivered  us 
and  obtained  righteousness  for  all ;  3.  To  obtain  this  we  must  believe  on 
Him. 

Sunday,  June  11th. 

In  the  forenoon,  Mr.  Kunze  preached  in  Zion's  Church  on  Matth.  22  : 
4.  "  The  hand  of  God  in  the  repeated  sending  and  changing  of  His 
servants."  1.  The  divine  sending  in  general ;  2.  The  hand  of  God  in  the 
repetitions,  and  changes  accompanying  them. 

In  the  forenoon  in  St.  Michael's  Church,  Mr.  Krug  preached  on  Rom. 
8 :  16, 17.  "  How  the  Holy  Spirit  assures  believers."  1.  Of  their  pres- 
ent ;  2.  Of  their  future  salvation. 

In  the  afternoon  in  Zion's  Church,  Mr.  Schulz  preached  on  Matth. 
6:  15.  "The  true  inner  Evangelical  worship  of  God."  1.  "What 
opposes  it ;  2.  In  what  it  consists. 

In  the  afternoon  in  St.  Michael's,  Mr.  Wildbahn  preached  on  I  John 
3  :  1,  2,  3.  "  The  State  of  Adoption."  1.  Its  honor  and  glory;  2.  Its 
inheritance  and  blessedness ;  3.  Its  obligation. 

In  the  evening  in  Zion's  Church,  Mr.  Muhlenberg,  Jun.,  preached  on 
John  13:  33-35.  "How  Jesus  encourages  us  to  brotherly  love." 
1.  The  address;  2.  The  special  command  given;  3.  The  command 
emphasized. 

Between  the  afternoon  and  evening  services,  some  of  the  preachers 
present  assembled  in  Mr.  Helmuth's  house,  edified  themselves  together 
through  instructive  and  beneficial  conversations,  and  bowed  their  knees 
together  before  God's  throne  of  grace. 
206 


THIRTY-NINTH   CONVENTION,  1786.  207 

Monday,  June  12th,  a.  m. 

At  9  o'clock  the  preachers  assembled  in  Zion's  Church,  and  Mr.  Wil- 
luliu  Kurz  preached  on  Sirach  18  :  22.  "The  great  danger  in  delaying 
conversion." 

The  preachers  in  attendance  at  this  year's  Synodical  Meeting  are  : 

1.  Mr.  Wilhelm  Kurz,  from  Lebanon. 

2.  "  Voigt,  from  l'ikestown. 

3.  "  Krug,  from  Friedrichstown. 

4.  "  Schnlz,  from  Tulpehocken. 

5.  "  Helmuth,  from  Philadelphia. 

6.  "  Schmidt,  from  Germantown. 

7.  "  Kunze,  from  New  York. 

8.  "  Muhlenberg,  Jun.,  from  Lancaster. 

9.  "  Wildbahn,  from  Beading. 

10.  "  Busskerk,  from  Macunshy. 

11.  "  Roller,  from  Goschenhoppen. 

12.  "  Goring,  from  Yorktown. 

13.  "  Lehman,  from  Mesillum. 

14.  "  Schroeter,  from  MacAllister. 

15.  "  Ernst,  from  Greenwich. 

16.  "  Melzheimer,  from  New  Holland. 

17.  "  Daniel  Kurz,  from  Baltimore. 

After  the  sermon  was  finished,  the  conference  was  opened  with  prayer. 

1.  Two  delegates  from  Moore  township  handed  in  various  written  com- 
plaints against  Mr.  Ernst,  and  requested  that  he  be  removed  from  their 
congregation,  and  it  be  supplied  with  another  preacher.  Mr.  Ernst 
defended  himself  against  the  accusations,  and  maintained  that  some  of 
them  were  false,  and  others  based  on  a  misunderstanding.  The 
delegates  themselves  confessed  that  they  could  not  prove  all  the  com- 
plaints inasmuch  as  they  and  the  others  who  had  signed  the  accusation, 
had  written  their  Dames  on  a  blank  sheet  of  paper,  and  that  a  man 
named  Dickhant  had  afterward  written  the  complaints  on  it. 

After  due  consideration  thedelegates  were  earnestly  admonished  not  to 
let  themselves  be  used  as  tools  for  the  furtherance  of  evil,  but  for  their 
part  to  strive  to  re-establish  and  preserve  peace,  harmony  and  love 
among  and  toward  each  other.     And  finally 

Resolved,  that  Mr.  Ernst  resign  his  call  to  the  congregation  mentioned, 
but  that  the  congregation  be  informed  in  writing,  that  the  Minister- 
ium  hopes  they  will  pay  Mr.  Ernst  his  back  salary. 

The  morning  sermon  was  closed  with  prayer. 


208  DOCUMENTARY  HISTOEY. 

On  the  Same  Day,  p.m. 
After  the  prayer. 

2.  A  letter  of  excuse  from  Mr.  Kurz,  Sr.,  was  read. 

3.  The  President  reported,  that  according  to  accounts  from  Halle  he 
had  a  certain  sum  of  money  to  distribute  to  the  preachers  ;  and  that  the 
Fathers  in  Halle  wished  that  certain  funds  be  securely  invested  here  in 
America. 

In  reference  to  the  first,  Mr.  Schmidt  and  Mr.  Muhlenberg,  Jun., 
were  requested  to  audit  the  accounts,  and  to  determine  how  much  and 
to  whom  the  interest  was  to  be  distributed.     They  found  as  follows : 

According  to  the  above  accounts,  dated  Halle,  October  1, 1785,  signed 
by  Insp.  Fabricius,  the  interest  for  two  years  and  other  charitable  gifts 
were  received — 938  reichthaler,  14  groschen. 

Pounds     Shil.  Pence. 

These  make  in  Pennsylvania  currency,  5s.  6d.  pro  R. 

thaler,        .  258         1         11 

To  this  is  to  be  added  2s.  6d.,  remaining  from  the  sum 

set  apart  for  printing  the  Agende,       ...  26 

258         4  5 

From  this  was  deducted,  for  Mr.  Schulze's  mother, 

10  thalers,  ........      2 

Further,  initiation  fee  in  the  academy,        .         .         .26 
For  a  needy  person,  ...... 

Divided   amongst    twenty  one    preachers    (including 

Widow  Schaum), 228 

258 

N.  B. — According  to  last  year's  accounts,  Mr.  Kunze  had  50  Th.  and 
£5  sterling  to  pay  to  the  preachers,  but  he  reported  that  he  had  remitted 
the  50  Th.  to  Halle ;  from  the  £5  sterling,  making  £8  Pennsylvania  cur- 
rency, he  took  the  £6  due  him,  and  the  remaining  £2  the  Ministerium 
directed  him  to  pay  to  Mr.  Moller  in  Albania. 

In  regard  to  investing  funds,  it  was 

Resolved,  That  if  the  corporation  of  St.  Michael's  and  Zion's  is  will- 
ing to  take  it  as  a  perpetual  fund  for  the  payment  of  interest,  it  shall 
pay  only  five  per  cent,  interest.  The  original  obligation  for  this  shall 
be  made  to  the  Fathers  in  Halle,  and  the  Ministerium  shall  have  a 
copy.  Mr.  Voigt,  Mr.  Helmuth  and  Mr.  Schmidt  were  appointed  a 
committee  to  look  after  the  correctness  of  this  obligation. 


15 

0 

6 

6 

15 

7 

6 

4 

5 

THIRTY-NINTH  CONVENTION,  17S6.  209 

Resolved,  That  the  interest  shall  be  applied  as  follows: 

(1.)  For  tuition  for  six  academical  students,  according  to  the  ap- 
pointment of  the  Fathers  in  Halle. 

(2.)  For  the  regular  preachers  present  at  the  annual  Synodical  Meet- 
ing. 

(.'!.)  For  old  and  sick  preachers  who  cannot  attend. 

(4.)  For  the  widows  of  regular  preachers. 

(5.)  Those  also  shall  have  their  share  who  satisfactorily  and  in  writing 
excuse  their  absence  from  the  annual  Synodical  Meeting. 

( losed  with  prayer. 

At  the  evening  service  in  Zion's,  Mr.  Roller  preached  on  Philip.  2 : 
12.  "The  true  earnestness  of  the  Christian  in  his  conversion:  1,  be- 
fore, and  2,  after  conversion." 

Tuesday,  June  13,  a.m. 

4.  A  letter  from  the  congregations  at  New  Hanover  and  New  Gos- 
chenhoppen  was  read,  in  which  they  ask  the  Ministerium  for  a  preacher. 

Resolved,  That  answer  be  made  to  them  in  writing,  that  they  may  ex- 
tend a  call  to  any  preacher  in  the  Ministerium. 

5.  A  letter  from  the  congregation  at  Manheim  was  read,  in  which 
they  ask  for  Mr.  Melzheitner  or  some  other  preacher. 

Resolved,  That  the  neighboring  preachers  serve  the  congregation  as 
much  as  possible. 

6.  Several  congregations  in  York  township  desire  a  Mr.  Schafer  as 
their  pastor. 

Resolved,  That  some  questions  be  given  him  immediately  to  be  an- 
swered in  writing. 

7.  A  writing  from  several  congregations  in  Northampton  County  was 
read,  in  which  they  ask  that  a  Mr.  Schelhard  be  ordained  as  their 
preacher  by  the  Ministerium. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Schelhard  can  not  be  ordained. 

Upon  motion,  it  was 

/.'.  wived,  That  no  member  of  the  Ministerium  shall  have  anything 
to  do  with  any  candidate,  or  any  person  who  represents  himself  as  a 
preacher,  if  the  person  be  not  received  by  the  Ministerium  or  recom- 
mended by  the  President  or  a  District  Conference. 

8.  The  congregation  in  New  Holland,  Earl  township,  requests  to 
be  united  with  Modecriek. 

Resolved,  That  the  Ministerium  give  its  consent. 

9.  On  motion  it  was 

Resolved,  That  a  dozen  bound  copies  of  the  printed  Church  Ageude 
be  given  to  Mr.  Kunze  to  take  along  for  the  use  of  Lutheran  preachers 
14 


210  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

in  New  York  State ;  and  that  the  corporation  of  St.  Michael's  and  Zion's 
in  Philadelphia  be  requested  to  take  care  of  and  preserve  the  unbound 
copies  of  this  Agende  for  the  future  use  of  the  Ministerium. 

11.  On  motion  it  was 

Resolved,  That  in  case  the  Uuited  Lutheran  preachers  in  New  York 
State  send  a  copy  of  the  Protocol  of  their  meeting  to  this  Ministerium, 
a  copy  of  ours  be  sent  to  them. 

Closed  with  prayer. 

On  the  Same  Day,  p.m. 

After  prayer,  12.  A  letter  from  the  congregation  in  Baltimore,  in 
the  State  of  Maryland,  was  read,  in  which  it  requests  the  Ministerium 
to  ordain  Mr.  Daniel  Kurz  as  its  preacher. 

Resolved,  That  said  congregation  belongs  to  the  Ministerium,  and 
that  instead  of  an  examination,  some  questions  to  be  answered  in  writ- 
ing be  given  to  Mr.  Daniel  Kurz. 

Resolved,  That  an  address  to  United  Evangelical  Lutheran  congrega- 
tions in  North  America  be  published  in  the  newspaper. 

13.  A  letter  from  the  congregation  in  Yorktown  was  read,  in  which 
it  expresses  its  satisfaction  with  its  present  preachers,  Mr.  Kurz,  Sr., 
and  Mr.  Goering. 

14.  The  congregation  in  Whitpain,  Upper  Dublin  and  Gwynedd  re- 
quest that  Mr.  Hecht  be  at  least  granted  permission  to  preach  and  baptize. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Helmuth  and  Mr.  Schmidt  be  a  committee,  to 
examine  Mr.  Hecht,  and  in  accordance  with  their  judgment  grant  him 
a  license,  with  restrictions,  and  that  he  be  under  the  supervision  of  the 
neighboring  preachers  of  the  Ministerium. 

15.  Several  complaints  against  Mr.  Kurz,  Sr.,  were  presented  by  a 
Reformed  congregation  in  York  County,  which  has  an  equal  share  in  a 
church  with  a  Lutheran  congregation. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Muhlenberg,  in  Lancaster,  together  with  the  Re- 
formed preacher  Hendel  [whom  he  shall  request  to  assist  him]  shall 
endeavor  to  adjust  matters. 

16.  On  motion, 

Resolved,  That  the  Ministerium  write  a  letter  to  the  Nolltown  con- 
gregation and  admonish  it  to  pay  its  preacher,  Mr.  Ernst,  the  salary 
due  him 

17.  Messrs.  Daniel  Kurz  and  Schiifer  handed  over  the  answers,  to 
the  questions  given.     They  were  read,  and 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Daniel  Kurz  be  ordained  to-morrow  morning  at 
9  o'clock,  in  Zion's  Church,  Philadelphia,  by  the  President,  in  presence 
of  the  preachers  still  present,  and  that  at  the  same  time,  after  prayer 


THIRTY-NINTH  CONVENTION,  1786. 


211 


and  the  right  hand  of  fellowship,  the  President  give  Mr.  Schiifer  a 
license  for  a  year. 

18.  On  motion,  it  was 

Resolved,  That  the  Secretary  announce  the  time  and  place  of  each 
Synodieal  Meeting  some  time  beforehand  in  the  paper. 

19.  Finally  the  preachers  proceeded  to  the  election  of  a  President  and 
Secretary,  and  to  the  determination  of  the  place  for  the  following  year  ; 
by  majority  of  votes  Mr.  Hclmuth  was  elected  President,  Mr.  Schmidt, 
Secretary,  and  Lancaster  was  appointed  as  the  place  for  the  meeting. 

In  closing,  all  the  preachers  bowed  their  knees  before  the  throne  of 
grace,  and  the  President  closed  with  prayer. 

In  the  evening  Mr.  Lehman  preached  in  Zion,  on  II  Cor.  5 :  14. 

Wednesday,  June  14tii,  a.m. 

In  accordance  with  resolution  No.  17,  Mr.  Dan.  Kurz  was  ordained, 
and  Mr.  Schiifer  was  granted  a  license ;  whereupon  Mr.  Helmuth,  as 
Pastor  loci,  dismissed  the  preachers  with  the  Benediction. 

N.  B. — Of  the  above-mentioned  sum  of  £228,  7s.  lid.,  the  persons 
named  received  as  follows : 


£. 

10 
10 
10 


Mr.  TVilhelm  Kurz 

"  Voigt 

"  Krug 

"  Schulz 10 

"  Helmuth 10 

"  Schmidt 10 

"  Kunze 10 

"  Muhlenberg,  Jun 10 

"  Wildbahn 10 

"  Buskerk 10 

"  Roller 10 

"  Goring 10 

"  Lehman 10 

"  Schroter 10 

"  Ernst 10 

"  Melzsheimer 10 


"     Dan.  Km/. 
Further  —  Mr. 
Miihlenberg,  Sr. 
Mr.  Kurz,  Sr.   . 
Widow  Schaum. 
Mr.  Friederici,  through  Mr.  Buskerk 


through  Mr. 
Muhlenberg, 
Jun.    .    .    . 


10 

10 
10 
10 
10 


Sh. 

17 
17 
17 
17 
17 
17 
17 
17 
17 
17 
17 
17 
17 
17 
17 
17 
17 

17 
17 
17 
17 


D. 

6  making 

6  « 

6  " 

6  " 

6  " 

6  " 

6  " 

6  " 

6  " 

6  " 

6  " 

6  " 

6  " 

6  " 

6  " 

6  " 

6  " 

6  " 

6  " 

6  « 

6  '; 


Th. 

39 
39 
39 
39 
39 
39 
39 
39 
39 
39 
39 
39 
39 
39 
39 
39 
39 

39 
39 
39 
39 


Gr.  Pfen. 

13  51 


13 
13 
13 
13 
13 
13 
13 
13 
13 
13 
13 
13 
13 
13 
13 
13 

13 
13 
13 
13 


51 
51 
51 
51 
51 
51 
51 
51 
51 
51 
51 
51 
51 
5} 
51 
51 

51 
51 
51 
5i 


228   7  6 


830  15  21 


212  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

To  be  added— 1.  Tuition  fee  .    .    .      26      6     6      "  95    16  00 

2.  Mr.  Schulz's  mother 2     15     0       "  10     00  00 

3.  As  above     ....'....      00     15     0      "  2     17  6 

_         si      

258      4     0"        939     00  8} 

THE    NUMBER   OF   BAPTIZED,  CONFIRMED,  COMMUNICANTS,  BURIED, 

DURING  THE   LAST   YEAR. 

Communi- 
Baptized.    Confirmed.  cants.        Buried. 

Mr.  Wilhelm  Kurz 160  25  589  — 

"     Helmuth —  —  —  — 

"     Schmidt 47  —  212  19 

"     Kunze 90  —  —  50 

"     Muhlenberg 150  71  713  37 

"     Wildbahn 68  58  526  24 

»     Jung 165  117  545  23 

"    Roller 93  15  517  21 

"     Goring 42  17  105 

"     Schroter 130  40  800  30 

»     Ernst 51  23  288  11 

That  the  above  thus  took  place,  is  witnessed  by 

J.  H.  Christian  Helmuth, 

P.  t.  President. 

Joh.  Friederich  Schmidt, 

P.  t.  Secretary. 


FORTIETH  CONVENTION. 


1787. 
(June  3-5,  Lancaster.) 


June  2,  toward  evening,  most  of  the  members  of  the  Ministerium 
arrived  in  Lancaster,  and  assembled  in  the  parsonage,  where  they  edi- 
fied themselves  with  fraternal  conversation  and  prayer. 

June  3d,  a.m. 

On  Trinity  Sunday,  the  pastors  went  to  church,  when  Pastor  Nicolaus 
Kurtz  preached  an  impressive  and  edifying  sermon  on  Phil.  2  :  12,  13. 
In  the  afternoon  Pastor  Jung  preached  at  a  funeral  service  on  Hebr.  4  : 
9-11;  and  in  the  evening  Dr.  Helmuth  on  Rom.  8:  14.  All  the 
addresses  were  in  an  earnest  and  fraternal  spirit,  and  well  fitted  to 
encourage  the  pastors  and  the  people  who  had  assembled  in  great 
numbers. 

June  4th,  a.m. 

At  9  o'clock  the  preachers  assembled  in  the  school-house,  and,  after 
the  Synod  was  opened  with  prayer,  they  proceeded  to  the  election  of  a 
new  Secretary,  in  place  of  the  absent  Rev.  Mr.  Schmidt ;  the  choice  fell 
upon  Preacher  Heinrich  Muhlenberg. 

Members  of  the  Ministerium  present  were  : 

1.  Rev.  Mr.  Nicol.  Kurz,  from  Yorktown. 


2. 

3. 

4. 

5. 

6. 

7. 

8. 

9. 
10. 
11. 
12. 
13. 


Wilhelm  Kurz,  from  Lebanon. 
Ludwig  Voigt,  from  Pikeland. 
Joh,  Andr.  Krug,  from  Friedrichstown. 
Emanuel  Schulze,  from  Tulpehocken. 
Heinrich  Helmuth,  D.D.,  from  Philadelphia. 
Heinrich  Muhlenberg,  from  Lancaster. 
C.  Friedrich  Wildbahn,  from  Reading. 
Jacobus  von  Buskirk,  from  Macunshy. 
Christian  Streit,  from  "Winchester. 
Joh.  Georg  Jung,  from  Hegerstown. 
Conrad  Roller,  from  Indianfield. 
Jacob  Goring,  from  Yorktown. 

213 


214  DOCUMENTAKY  HISTORY. 

14.  Rev.  Mr.  Daniel  Schroter,  from  MacAllister. 

15.  "         Daniel  Lehman,  from  Misillum. 

16.  "  Friedrich  Ernst,  from  Greenwich. 

17.  "  Friedr  Valent.  Melsheimer,  from  New  Holland. 

18.  "  Daniel  Kurz,  from  Baltimore. 

19.  "  Johan.  Friedr.  Weinland,  from  Germantown. 

20.  Licent.  Friedrich  David  Schafer,  from  Carlisle. 

21.  Licent.  Paul  Hinkel,  from  Virginia. 

Those  absent  who  sent  letters  of  excuse. 

Rev.  Georg  Bager,  emeritus. 

"     Friedrich  Schmidt. 

"     Joh.  Chr.  Kunze,  D.D. 

"     Henrich  Moller. 
Licent.  Enderline. 

The  following  important  matters  were  considered  : 

1 .  Rev.  Mr.  Weinland's  call  was  read,  approved,  and  he  was  unani- 
mously received  as  a  member  of  the  Ministerium. 

2.  A  letter  from  Menalleu  Township  was  read,  requesting  that  Mr. 
Fried.  Schafer  be  permitted  to  remain  with  them.  This  request  was 
granted. 

3.  Two  Candidati  Ministerii  who  formerly  had  preached  in  Maryland 
and  Virginia  reported  themselves.  Joh.  Georg  Schroeder  from  Horne- 
busch,  Stift  Bremen,  and  Joh.  Georg  Hehl,  from  near  Nordlingen.  Both 
showed  a  certificate  of  ordination  by  a  certain  Butler,  and  Hehl  brought 
a  number  of  testimonials,  also  a  delegate,  who  spoke  well  of  him.  They 
were  heard  and  dismissed,  and  after  much  consultation,  whether  they 
should  not  be  refused  immediately,  it  was  resolved,  with  regard  to  a 
circular  letter  of  1786,  to  examine  them  further  in  the  afternoon  at  2 
o'clock. 

4.  Delegates  from  Hagerstown  were  called  in,  who  expressed  their 
complete  satisfaction  with  Rev.  Mr.  Jung.  The  Lutheran  Corporation 
of  this  place  also  appeared,  in  order  to  offer  its  services. 

5.  A  letter  from  the  congregation  in  MacAllister,  signed  by  its  pastor 
emeritus,  Mr.  Bager,  and  the  Church  Council,  was  read,  in  which  they 
asked  for  a  new  preacher.  The  following  answer  was  agreed  upon : 
The  congregation  shall  be  free  to  call  any  preacher  of  the  Ministerium, 
and  Mr.  Schroter  (who  has  accepted  a  congregation  formerly  connected 
with  MacAllister)  will  resign  Abbetstown,  if,  and  as  soon  as  MacAllister 
and  Abbetstown  together  can  and  will  accept  a  preacher  of  their  own 
out  of  the  Ministerium, 

At  this  time  the  question  was  asked,  Is   it  right]  that  a  preacher 


FORTIETH  CONVENTION,  1787.  215 

accept  one  of  the  United  Congregations  which  belongs  to  a  charge  that 
cannot  support  a  preacher  unless  the  charge  remain  intact?  Resolved, 
not  except  on  the  condition,  only  to  serve  it  until  the  entire  charge  can 
be  served  (by  some  preacher). 

6.  Letters  of  excuse  were  read  from  Dr.  Kunze,  Rev.  Schmidt  and 

Moller. 

June  4th,  p.m. 

In  the  afternoon  at  2  o'clock,  the  Synodical  Meeting  was  continued 
in  the  parsonage,  viz. : 

7.  The  candidates  appointed  to  appear  at  2  o'clock,  presented  them- 
selves for  examination.  Neither  of  them  had  learned  anything  of  the 
original  languages.  Schroder  was  entirely  rejected  because  of  his  im- 
pudence, and  Hehl,  who  seemed  to  have  received  religious  impressions, 
and  who  otherwise  showed  a  commendable  spirit,  was  informed  that,  if 
he  publicly  renounce  his  connection  with  Butler,  refrain  from  adminis- 
tering communion  and  from  confirming  for.  an  entire  year,  leaving 
both  to  the  neighboring  regular  preachers,  and  also  otherwise  act 
as  a  Christian,  the  Ministerium  will  permit  him  to  preach  and  to 
baptize. 

8.  A  letter  of  excuse  from  Mr.  Enderlein,  for  his  absence  from  this 
and  the  previous  meeting  was  read,  and  declared  satisfactory.  It  was 
also  ordered  that  his  license  be  renewed. 

9.  Various  letters  concerning  a  Mr.  Anton  Hecht  were  read,  in  which 
his  ordination  was  earnestly  requested.  Resolved,  to  report  to  the  con- 
gregation in  the  mildest  terms,  that,  in  accordance  with  our  established 
rules,  we  cannot  now  ordain  him. 

10.  Letters  from  Georgia  were  read,  and  resolved,  to  encourage  Mr. 
Probst  with  the  hope,  that  he  may  expect  employment  here,  and  that 
the  Ministerium  would  gladly  assist  him.  Mr.  Willi.  Kurz  and  Lehman 
promised  a  good  position  as  a  teacher. 

11.  Letters  of  complaint  from  Baltimore  were  handed  in,  but,  because 
they  were  one-sided,  we  could  do  nothing  with  them. 

12.  Manheim  petitioned  through  delegates,  that  they  might  be  served 
by  a  preacher  of  their  own,  or  by  a  neighboring  preacher.  The  congre- 
gation was  referred  to  the  latter. 

13.  New  Hanover  and  New  Goschenhoppen  together  asked  for  a 
preacher,  the  latter  congregation  had  sent  in  a  call  with  the  promise  of 
£00  yearly.  Rev.  Mr.  Streit,  to  whom  they  had  the  call  extended, 
promised  a  decisive  answer  in  six  weeks. 

Hereupon,  all  the  preachers  went  to  church,  and  attended  the  evening 
service.     Rev.  Mr.  Goring  preached  on  Gal.  2  ■  20. 


216  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 


June  5th,  a.m. 


At  9  o'clock  the  preachers  again  began  their  consultations,  namely  : 

14.  Delegates  from  New  Holland  were  brought  in,  who  expressed 
their  sorrow,  that  Rev.  Mr.  Melzheimer  was  going  to  leave  them,  and 
inquired  whether  they  could  in  the  future  be  served  by  some  other 
preacher.  The  Ministerium  proposed  Rev.  Mr.  Ernst  to  them,  and  he 
promised  a  visiting  sermon  for  next  Sunday. 

15.  Several  of  the  preachers  ordained  in  Pennsylvania  asked  for  cer- 
tificates of  ordination.  It  was  ordered  that  certificates  should  be  pre- 
pared and  signed  by  the  President  and  Secretary  whenever  they  are 
given. 

16.  Mr.  Paul  Hinkel  asked  for  a  renewal  of  his  license.  It  was 
unanimously  granted,  the  license  extended  to  all  congregations  in  that 
section  having  no  regular  preacher,  and  hope  was  given  him,  that  in  time 
he  should  be  ordained. 

17.  A  Candidatus  Ministerii,  "Wilhelm  Carpenter,  who  up  to  this  time 
had  been  instructed  by  Mr.  Leps  and  Rev.  Mr.  Streit,  laid  before  the 
Ministerium  a  recommendation  from  the  congregation  in  Culpepper,  in 
which  urgent  request  is  made,  that  he  be  examined  and  licensed  to 
preach  and  baptize.  Messrs.  Wildbahn,  Kurz,  Voigt  and  Krug  were 
named  a  committee  to  examine  him,  and  upon  their  recommendation,  a 
license  to  preach  and  baptize  in  Culpepper  was  given  him  for  one  year. 

18.  Complaint  was  made  that  Rev.  Mr.  Lehman  had  given  a  license 
to  one  Schelhard.  The  Ministerium  questioned  him  on  the  matter,  and 
reached  the  unanimous  conclusion  :  Mr.  Lehman  shall  call  in  the  license 
given  to  Schelhard,  since  the  Ministerium  entirely  disapproves  of  it, 
and  according  to  its  Constitution  recognizes  no  license  as  legitimate, 
except  it  be  given  at  a  Synodical  Meeting.  Mr.  Lehman  promised  to 
obey  the  order. 

19.  All  the  pi'eachers  have  been  invited  to  attend  the  dedication  of  the 
German  High  School  (Franklin  College),  on  the  morrow  at  10  o'clock 
A.  m.,  all  accepted  the  invitation. 

20.  The  printed  Agende  was  laid  before  the  Ministerium  and  approved, 
with  the  understanding,  however,  that  liberty  should  be  given  to  shorten 
the  General  Prayer,  and  in  the  rite  of  Confirmation  to  conform  more  to 
the  former  usage,  if  the  congregations  were  otherwise  accustomed. 

21.  Upon  question,  it  was  ordered,  that  the  so-called  Gospels  and 
Epistles  (except  those  for  Minor  Festivals),  be  printed  and  bound  with 
the  new  Hymn  Book.  Preacher  Muhlenberg  was  charged  with  the 
task  of  revising  the  whole,  especially  the  prayers,  and  preparing  it  for 
the  press. 


FORTIETH  CONVENTION,  1787.  217 

22.  The  Protocol  of  the  preceding  meeting  was  read,  and  much  was 
paid  concerning  the  Streit  Legacy,  but  as  none  of  the  preachers  here 
has  ever  seen  a  copy  of  the  will,  no  formal  conclusion  was  reached. 
Report  was  also  made  of  a  still  unsettled  disagreement  between  Lu- 
therans and  Reformed  not  far  from  Yorktown,  of  which  mention  was 
made  last  year. 

23.  It  was  ordered  to  send  a  circular  letter  in  the  name  of  the  Min- 
isterium  to  all  the  United  Congregations,  and  in  it  to  rebuke  the  pre- 
vailing sins  of  the  country,  especially  Sabbath-breaking,  and  to  insist 
upon  improvement.  Dr.  Helmuth  was  appointed  to  prepare  the  letter 
and  have  it  printed  by  Mr.  Billmeier. 

24.  Several  preachers  handed  in  their  lists  for  the  year  1786. 

Rev.  Mr.  Buskirk  baptized  106,  confirmed  58,  administered  com- 
munion to  402,  buried  20. 

Rev.  Mr.  Melsheimer  baptized  95,  confirmed  175,  administered  com- 
munion to  400,  buried  7. 

Rev.  Mr.  Sehroter  baptized  229,  confirmed  129,  administered  com- 
munion to  1065,  buried  19. 

Rev.  Mr.  Roller  baptized  92,  confirmed  88,  administered  communion 
to  521,  buried  18. 

Rev.  Mr.  Jung  baptized  147,  confirmed  41,  administered  communion 
to  483,  buried  17. 

Rev.  Mr.  Schaefer  baptized  127,  confirmed  5,  administered  commun- 
ion to  148,  buried  6. 

Rev.  Mr.  Miihlenberg  baptized  148,  confirmed  44,  administered  com- 
munion to  671,  buried  35. 

25.  It  was  unanimously  resolved,  to  apply  to  the  authorities  for  a 
charter,  and  Senior  Muhlenberg,  Pastor  Nicolaus  Kurz,  Emanuel 
Schulze,  Dr.  Helmuth,  Preacher  H.  Miihlenberg,  Peter  Muhlenberg, 
Esq., Rawle,  Esq.,  were  named  a  committee  to  attend  to  this. 

26.  The  votes  for  President  and  Secretary  of  the  Ministerium,  and 
the  place  of  the  next  Synodical  Meeting  were  gathered.  The  majority 
of  votes  resulted  as  follows : 

Preacher  Ilenrich  Muhlenberg  for  President. 

Preacher  Fr.  Val.  Melsheimer  for  Secretary,  and  Reading  as  the 
plaa — as  usual  on  the  Festival  of  Trinity. 

Hereupon  the  meeting  was  closed  with  song  and  prayer.  In  the 
evening  all  the  preachers  went  to  church,  listened  to  Rev.  Mr.  Wein- 
land  on  Mark  16  :  15,  16,  and  were  dismissed  by  the  pastor  loci  with 
thanksgiving  and  benedictions. 


218  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Appendix. 

On  Wednesday,  June  6th,  the  entire  Ministerium  went  in  procession 
to  the  dedication  of  Franklin  College,  which  was  held  in  the  Lutheran 
Church.  A  Reformed  preacher,  G.  Weiberg,  opened  with  prayer,  the 
Episcopal  preacher,  Mr.  Hutchins,  delivered  an  English  address  on  John 
7 :  15,  Preacher  Muhlenberg,  a  German  address  on  Ephes.  6 :  4,  and 
the  Moravian  preacher,  Mr.  Herbst,  closed  with  an  English  prayer. 

That  the  above  all  happened  thus,  we  witness : 

J.  H.  Chr.  Helmuth, 
Henrich  Muhlenberg,  p.  t  Presid. 

Secretary. 


FORTY-FIRST  CONVENTION. 

1788. 

Reading.     May  18-20. 


On  May  17th,  most  of  the  members  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran 
Ministerium  assembled  in  Reading. 

May  18th. 

Being  the  Festival  of  the  Trinity,  they  went  to  church,  where  Pastor 

Nicol.  Kurtz  preached  in  the  morning  on  the  Festival  Gospel,  Mr. 

"Weinland  in  the  afternoon  on  Gal.  4  :  6,  and  Dr.  Muhlenberg  in  the 

evening  on  I  Thessal.  5  :  20.     All  these  preachers  delivered  edifying, 

clear  and  thorough  sermons,  to  the  blessing  of  the  entire  numerous 

assembly. 

May  19th,  a.m. 

Dr.  Kunze  edified  his  audience  by  an  impressive  discourse  on  II  Cor. 
7  :  1-3 ;  afterwards  all  the  members  went  to  the  schoolhouse  and 
opened  the  Synod  with  prayer. 

Members  of  the  Ministerium  in  attendance  were  : 


1. 

Dr. 

Muhlenberg,  p.  t.  Prses.  Minist. 

2. 

Dr. 

Kunze. 

3. 

Pastor  Nic.  Kurz. 

4. 

u 

Schulz. 

5. 

a 

Voigt. 

6. 

tt 

Krug. 

7. 

tt 

Schmidt. 

8. 

tt 

Wilh.  Kurz. 

9. 

« 

Wildbahn,  Past.  loc. 

10. 

If 

AVeinland. 

11. 

tt 

Buskirk. 

12. 

(< 

Roeller. 

13. 

tt 

Streit. 

14. 

tt 

Goering. 

15. 

tt 

Lehman. 

16. 

It 

Schroeter. 

219 


220  DOCUMENTARY   HISTORY. 

17.  Pastor  Ernst. 

18.  "       Dan.  Kurz. 

19.  "       Melsheimer,  p.  t.  Seer.  Minist. 

Licentiati. 

1.  Mr.  Schaefer. 

2.  Mr.  Carpenter. 

Dr.  Helmuth  had  himself  excused  orally. 

Pastor  Moeller  and  Schwerdfeger  excused  themselves  in  writing. 
The  Synod  hereupon  proceeded  to  the  transaction  of  the  business 
brought  before  it. 

1.  A  letter  from  Winchester,  in  Virginia,  was  read,  in  which  the 
Church  Council  of  the  congregation  in  that  place  asks  for  a  collection 
to  assist  them  in  building  a  church.  After  mature  deliberation,  it  was 
resolved,  to  give  them  the  written  reply,  that  in  the  present  hard  times 
and  in  the  great  scarcity  of  money,  the  Ministerium  desires  to  be  spared 
from  this  proposition  ;  especially  since  the  Ministerium  believes  that  the 
respective  preachers  have  no  right  to  give  away  public  collections  with- 
out the  consent  of  the  elders  and  deacons.  The  Synod,  however,  re- 
commend to  each  member  to  do  the  best  for  the  congregation  named,  as 
far  as  possible,  by  private  contributions. 

2.  Mr.  Hehl,  a  candidatus  theologice,  who  had  applied  to  the  Minis- 
terium already  last  year,  handed  in  a  writing,  which  was  supported  by 
word  of  mouth  by  four  delegates.  Its  contents  were  that  he  desires  to 
be  received  into  the  Ministerium.  Hereupon  it  was  resolved,  that  Mr. 
Hehl  be  examined  before  the  Ministerium  in  the  afternoon. 

3.  Upon  motion  of  Dr.  Kunze  it  was  unanimously  resolved,  that  Mr. 
Nicol.  Kurz  be  declared  Senior  of  the  Ministerium  and  that  the  Minis- 
terium expect  from  him,  and  herewith  charge  him,  that  whenever 
needed,  he  should  assist  the  President  in  his  work  of  supervision  and 
admonition. 

4.  Two  delegates  from  Misillum  requested  the  Synod  that  their 
preacher,  Mr.  Lehman,  might  remain  with  them,  and  serve  them  every 
three  weeks.  Mr.  Lehman  left  the  decision  with  the  Synod.  But  as 
the  time  was  already  too  far  spent,  the  further  consideration  of  this 
matter  was  postponed  until  3  o'clock  p.m.,  and  the  Synod  was  closed 
with  prayer. 

P.M. 

After  prayer,  5.  Mr.  Hehl  was  brought  in,  and  requested  to  write 
out  his  thoughts  on  the  text  Mark  1 :  15.  "  Repent  ye  and  believe  the 
Gospel,"  and  lay  them  before  the  Ministerium  for  their  judgment. 

6.  The  case  of  Mr.  Lehman's  was  taken  up,  and  the  Synod  demanded 


FORTY-FIRST  CONVENTION,  1788.  221 

from  him  a  definite  statement,  whether  he  wished  to  remain  with  the 
Misillum  congregation,  or  to  move  to  New  Hanover.  Hereupon  Mr. 
Lehman  .staled  that  he  desired  in  the  coming  Fall  to  leave  the  congre- 
gation on  the  Misillum  and  serve  New  Hanover.  With  this  statement 
the  Ministerium  was  satisfied. 

7.  Mr.  Kuhl,  a  candidatus  theologice  from  Hamburg,  handed  to  the 
Ministerium  a  writing  accompanied  by  two  testimonials  from  the  magis- 
trate, his  former  pastor,  Pastor  Berkbahn,  in  which  he  petitioned  for 
reception  into  the  Ministerium.  Many  grave  accusations,  and  especially 
that  he  had  as  a  candidate  administered  communion  here  in  the  country, 
led  the  Ministerium  to  the  decision  for  the  present  not  to  have  anything 
to  do  with  Mr.  Kuhl. 

8.  Mr.  Liitge,  who  for  some  years  was  stationed  in  Westmoreland 
County  as  preacher,  reported  himself  to  the  Synod,  and  asked  to  be 
received.  He  had  been  ordained  by  a  certain  Meyer,  who  himself  was 
not  ordained.  The  Ministerium  declared  his  ordination  invalid,  and 
requested  from  him  a  written  outline  on  Mark  1 :  15  :  "  Repent  ye,  and 
believe  the  Gospel." 

9.  Mr.  Hehl  handed  in  to  the  Ministerium  his  essay  on  Mark  1 :  15  to 
be  examined.  It  was  read,  examined,  and  found  too  poor  for  a  common 
country  schoolmaster.  By  a  majority  of  votes,  it  was  therefore  resolved 
to  reject  Mr.  Hehl  on  account  of  his  incapacity. 

10.  A  letter  from  Friederich  Stadt  [Frederick,  Md.],  signed  by  some 
members  of  the  congregation  at  that  place,  was  read.  In  it  they 
expressed  their  dissatisfaction  with  their  present  preacher,  Mr.  Krug, 
and  asked  that  he  might  be  removed  to  some  other  place.  On  motion, 
it  was  therefore  resolved,  that  the  Church  Council  of  the  congregation 
should  be  written  to  concerning  the  matter. 

11.  Mr.  Liitge  handed  to  the  Synod  his  outline  on  Mark  1 :  15.  It  was 
read,  and  the  decision  postponed  to  the  next  day. 

Hereupon  the  session  was  closed  with  prayer,  and  the  further  con- 
tinuation of  business  set  for  9  o'clock  a.m.  of  the  following  day.  All 
the  members  of  the  Ministerium  then  went  to  church,  where  Pastor 
Schmidt  preached  on  Acts  26 :  18. 

20th,  a.m. 

The  preachers,  after  prayer,  again  began  their  consultations. 

12.  Two  letters  from  Cumberland  County,  referring  to  Mr.  Schafer, 
were  read,  in  which  the  congregations  of  that  place  petitioned  for  his 
ordination,  and  spoke  well  of  his  conduct  among  them  to  the  present. 
Upon  request,  a  part  of  his  diary  was  read,  with  which  the  members  of 
the  Ministerium  expressed  satisfaction. 


222  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

13.  On  motion,  it  was 

Resolved,  that  in  the  lists  of  baptized,  confirmed  and  deceased,  the 
members  of  the  Ministerium  should  mention  the  number,  and  the 
names  of  their  congregations. 

14.  At  the  same  time,  the  Hymn  Book  was  discussed,  and 
Resolved,  that  each  member  of  the  Ministerium  make  it  his  duty  to 

make  notes  on  the  Hymn  Book,  and  hand  in  these  notes  at  the  next 
Synod  to  the  Ministerium  so  that  they  may  be  used  for  a  new  edition. 

15.  As  the  Synod  also  considered  it  necessary  to  petition  the  govern- 
ment for  a  charter,  it  was  resolved,  that  Dr.  Kunze  and  Dr.  Helmuth, 
Pastor  Schmidt  and  Friedr.  Muhlenberg,  Esq.,  shall  be  a  committee  to 
draw  up  a  charter  for  the  Ministerium,  circulate  their  draft,  and 
lay  it,  together  with  the  comments  received,  before  the  next  General 
Synod. 

16.  The  case  of  Mr.  Liitge  was  again  taken  up,  and  on  motion, 
resolved  to  give  him  license  to  preach  and  to  baptize,  on  the  following 
conditions:  1.  That  he  shall  improve  his  knowledge  of  Greek.  2. 
Keep  a  diary  of  his  official  acts.  3.  Present  to  the  Ministerium  testi- 
monials from  the  elders  and  deacons  of  the  congregations  in  which  he 
preaches. 

17.  A  letter  from  Pastor  Moeller,  in  Albany,  was  read  in  which  he 
reports  the  condition  of  his  congregations,  and  excuses  his  absence  for 
this  year.  From  this  letter,  as  well  as  from  the  statements  of  the 
preachers  stationed  near  him,  the  Synod  recognized  him  as  a  faithful 
laborer  in  the  vineyard  of  the  Lord. 

18.  Likewise  a  letter  from  Pastor  Schwerdfeger,  in  Feilstown,  near 
Albany,  was  read.  In  it  Mr.  Schwerdfeger  complains  that  he  was 
excluded  from  the  Ministerium,  since  his  name  was  not  printed  in  the 
Church  Agende  printed  at  Philadelphia.  Thereupon  it  was  resolved — 
1.  That  it  never  was  the  intention  of  the  Ministerium  to  exclude  Mr 
Schwerdfeger.  2.  That  his  name  was  omitted  in  the  print  by  oversight. 
3.  That  it  shall  be  inserted  in  the  next  edition. 

19.  On  motion,  it  was 

Resolved,  that  Mr.  Schafer  shall  be  ordained  by  a  committee,  in  one 
of  the  congregations  which  he  serves. 

20.  A  writing  from  Culpepper  County,  referring  to  Mr.  Carpenter, 
was  read,  in  which  the  congregation  requests  the  Ministerium  that  he 
be  granted  permission,  not  only  to  preach  and  baptize,  but  also  to 
administer  communion.     It  was  therefore,  upon  motion, 

Resolved,  that  Mr.  Carpenter  write  an  essay  on  John  3:16,  and  lay 
it  before  the  Ministerium. 


FORTY-FIRST  CONVENTION,   1788.  223 

20th,  p.m. 

The  preachers  proceeded  to  the  transaction  of  the  remaining  business. 

21.  The  following  addition  to  a  resolution  passed  in  York  1783,  as  No. 
11,  was  considered  necessary  as  an  explanation  :  that  it  be  regularly  loft 
to  the  wisdom  of  each  preacher,  to  keep  secret  the  name  of  the  person  in 
the  restoration  of  persons  who  had  fallen  for  the  first  time  into  the  sin 
of  fornication. 

22.  A  motion  of  Pastor  Voigt  was  read,  to  the  effect  that  it  was 
necessary  also  to  receive  laymen  as  members  of  the  Ministerium. 
Resolved,  that  the  motion  be  referred  for  examination  to  the  committee, 
which  is  charged  with  the  preparation  of  the  charter. 

23.  In  reference  to  the  Licentiate  Hinkel,  who  did  not  appear,  and 
did  not  excuse  himself  by  letter,  it  was 

Resolved,  that  Pastor  Streit  investigate  the  cause,  and  inform  the 
President  of  it.  The  President  was  also  authorized,  upon  request,  to 
renew  his  license. 

24.  It  was  also  considered  necessary  to  examine  the  Ministerial 
Order  by  paragraphs,  and  to  make  such  alterations  or  additions  as 
were  considered  expedient  and  suitable  to  our  times  and  needs.  There- 
fore, it  was 

25.  Resolved,  That  the  words  in  the  Ministerial  Order,  Cap.  I  (mis- 
take for  Cap.  II)  §  3,  "  In  case  he  in  advance  "  be  cancelled. 

26.  In  considering  Cap.  Ill,  §  6,  it  was 

Resolved,  That  the  committee  which  prepares  the  charter  must  also 
provide  for  a  seal. 

27.  In  considering  Cap.  IV,  §  2,  it  was 

Resolved,  That  the  licentiates  are  obligated  to  attend  each  Synodical 
Meeting,  and  that  they  have  a  right  to  present  matters  and  make  com- 
ments, but  not  to  vote. 

28.  Resolved,  That  the  entire  6th  §  of  the  4th  Cap.  be  cancelled. 

29.  On  motion,  it  was 

Resolved,  That  the  ordinandi  and  licentiates  must  sign  a  revel's, 
which  shall  be  entered  on  the  Protocol. 

30.  Mr.  Carpenter  handed  to  the  Synod  an  essay  on  John  3:16, 
and  it  was  resolved  to  renew  his  license. 

The  Synod  hereupon  proceeded  to  the  election  of  a  President,  a  Sec- 
retary and  the  place  of  the  next  general  meeting.  By  a  majority  of 
votes  Dr.  Muhlenberg  was  elected  President,  Pastor  Melzheimer,  Secre- 
tary, and  Lebanon,  in  Dauphin  County,  as  the  place  of  meeting. 

The  President  closed  with  prayer  and  dismissed  all  the  members, 
wishing  them  the  blessing  of  God  for  their  own  prosperity  and  that  of  the 


224  DOCUMENTARY  HISTOEY. 

congregations  entrusted  to  them.  They  then  again  went  to  church  to 
hear  Pastor  Goering  preach  on  Rom.  8:14.  After  the  sermon  the 
Pastor  loc ,  Mr.  Wildbahn,  offered  a  prayer,  thanked  the  members  for 
the  love  shown  the  Reading  congregation,  and  commended  them  all  to 
the  gracious  care  of  the  Faithful  and  Great  Shepherd  of  the  Sheep. 
That  the  above  all  happened  thus,  we  witness  : 

Heinrich  Muhlenberg, 

P.  t.  President. 

Fr.  Val.  Melsheimer, 

P.  t.  Secretary. 


FORTY-SECOND  CONVENTION. 

1789. 

(June  7th,  8th,  9Tn,  17S9). 


[PttOTOCOL    OF   THE   SYNODICAL    MEETING   OF    THE    EVANGELICAL    LUTHERAN 

MrNlSTERlUM  Held  at  Lebanon,  Dauphin  County.] 

As  most  members  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Ministerium  arrived 
in  the  place  named  on  the  day  preceding,  they  went  to  church  on  the 
7th  of  June,  the  Festival  of  the  Trinity.  Dr.  Muhlenberg  preached  in 
the  morning  on  the  Festival  Gospel,  Pastor  Goering  in  the  afternoon 
on  I  Tim.  4  :  16,  and  Dr.  Helmuth  in  the  evening  on  I  Sam.  3  :  11— 
15,  before  a  numerous  audience  and  with  much  blessing. 

June  8th,  a.  m. 

Pastor  "Weiuland  preached  on  Phil.  3 :  20.     The  Synod  was  then 
opened  in  the  church  with  prayer,  and  continued  in  the  parsonage. 
The  members  of  the  Ministerium  in  attendance  were  : 

1.  Dr.  Muhlenberg,  p.  t.  Prses.-Minist. 
2    «    Helmuth. 
3.  Pastor  Schulze. 


4. 

ft 

Kurz,  Past.  loci. 

5. 

It 

Wildbahn. 

6. 

11 

Bush  kirk. 

7. 

it 

Goering. 

8. 

ft 

Roeller. 

9. 

ft 

Lehman. 

10. 

(( 

Schroeter. 

11. 

U 

Ernst 

12. 

it 

Weinland. 

13. 

it 

Schaefer. 

14. 

u 

Melsheimer,  Secret.-Minist. 

15  225 


226  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Licentiati. 

1.  Mr.  Hinkel. 

2.  "     Carpenter. 

3.  "     Liitge. 

Dr.  Kunze,  Pastor  Voigt  and  Moeller  sent  written  excuses.  Pastor 
Schmidt  had  himself  excused  by  word  of  mouth. 

The  Synod  hereupon  proceeded  to  the  transaction  of  the  business 
brought  before  it. 

1.  A  letter  from  Schippensburg,  Cumberland  County,  was  read,  in 
which  the  congregation  asked  for  a  preacher,  and  suggested  to  the  Min- 
isterium  either  Pastor  Melsheimer  or  Licentiate  Liitge,  with  a  yearly 
salary  of  £80  from  four  congregations. 

Resolved,  That  written  answer  be  made  to  the  congregation,  and  that 
it  be  referred  to  Licentiate  Liitge,  to  call  him  as  their  preacher. 

2.  Two  delegates  from  East  Pennsborough,  Cumberland  County, 
handed  to  the  Synod  a  letter  stating  that  they  desired  that  the  Kev. 
Ministerium  might  ordain  their  schoolmaster,  Jacsinsky  by  name.  At 
the  same  time  they  orally  set  forth  their  complaints  against  Pastor 
Schiifer,  that  he  held  prayer  meetings  in  the  houses  where  he  stayed 
over  night,  and  thereby  offended  many.  Hereupon  the  Ministerium 
reached  the  decision  :  1.  That  their  written  request  in  reference  to  Mr. 
Jacsinsky  could  not  be  granted,  as  he  does  not  possess  the  necessary 
qualifications  required  by  a  preacher.  2.  In  regai'd  to  Pastor  Schiifer, 
both  delegates  were  reproved  in  love  and  meekness,  and  it  was  shown 
that  their  complaints  were  insufficient  and  trifling,  and  that  the  Minis- 
terium approves  the  manner  in  which  Mr.  Schafer  conducts  his  office. 

Closed  with  prayer. 

p.  M. 
After  prayer 

3.  Various  writings  of  complaint  against  Mr.  Schroder  were  laid 
before  the  Synod  and  read.  After  mature  deliberation,  it  was  resolved, 
that  a  committee  earnestly  and  thoroughly  investigate  these  serious  com- 
plaints, and  report  to  the  Synod.     Further, 

Resolved,  That  Dr.  Helmuth,  and  Pastors  Schulz,  and  Wilhelm  Kurz 
be  a  committee,  and  that  all  communications  referring  to  these  com- 
plaints be  given  into  their  hands  for  examination. 

4.  A  letter  from  the  Manheim  and  Mount  Joy  congregations  was 
read,  in  which  they  petitioned  the  Ministerium  for  a  preacher. 

Resolved,  that  the  Manheim  and  Mount  Joy  congregations  be  advised, 
to  unite  with  other  congregations,  hand  their  decision  in  writing  to  the 
President,  and  then  upon  his  advice  call  Pastor  Moller  as  their  preacher. 

5.  The  congregation  in  Friedrichstown  laid  its  petition  for  a  preacher 


FORTY-SECOND  CONVENTION,   1789.  227 

before  the  Ministerium  in  writing.  At  a  Conference  Meeting  (Special 
Synod),  they  Lad  been  promised,  that  at  the  next  General  Synod,  theil 
present  preacher  as  well  as  the  congregation  itself  should  be  cared  for. 
It  was  therefore  resolved,  that  Dr.  Helmuth  should  write  to  the  congre- 
gation, and  Dr.  Muhlenberg  to  Pastor  Krug,  and  propose  Louisburg  in 
Dauphin  County  to  the  latter 

6.  A  letter  from  New  Hanover  of  similar  contents  was  also  read,  and 
resolved,  that  written  answer  should  be  sent  to  the  New  Hanover  Con- 
gregation, stating  that  the  Rev-  Ministerium  regarded  Pastor  Weinland 
a  suitable  person,  to  whom  they  might  apply  and  invite  him  to  preach  a 
Bermon.     (Gastpredigt). 

7.  Several  testimonials  from  Shenandoah  County  in  Virginia,  referring 
to  Licentiate  Mr.  Hinkel,  together  with  his  own  diary,  were  presented  to 
the  Ministerium.  The  congregations  expressed  their  satisfaction  with 
the  entire  official  conduct  of  Mr.  Hinkel,  and  recommended  him  to  the 
Synod  as  a  faithful  laborer  in  the  vineyard  of  the  Lord.  It  was  there- 
fore 

Resolved,  That  his  license  be  renewed. 

8.  At  the  same  time  Pastor  Schulz  moved  that  the  Licentiates  should 
hand  in  to  the  Ministerium  their  journals  and  four  complete  sermons  each 
year,  as  otherwise  the  Ministerium  had  no  opportunity  to  judge  correctly 
of  their  presentation  of  divine  truth. 

This  motion  was  generally  approved  and  accepted. 

9.  A  letter  from  Hanover,  and  three  others  from  Strasburg  Town- 
ship, the  Jerusalem,  and  Jacob's  Church  in  York  County  were  read, 
in  which  they  asked  the  Ministerium  for  a  preacher,  but  protested 
against  Pastor  Schroeter  for  reasons  which  they  did  not  express  before- 
hand, but  were  willing  to  declare,  if  required.  As  it  seemed  from  one 
of  these  letters,  that  the  congregations  were  in  favor  of  Pastor  Mel- 
sheimer,  he  promised  to  preach  a  trial  sermon  in  the  congregations  as 
soon  as  his  other  duties  would  permit,  with  which  the  Synod  expressed 
its  satisfaction. 

10.  A  delegate  from  Shamokin,  in  the  name  of  several  congregations, 
also  petitioned  the  Ministerium  for  a  preacher.  As  Pastor  Schulz 
had  promised  to  visit  in  that  region,  he  was  commissioned  by  the  Min- 
isterium  to  propose  Pastor  Schwerdfeger. 

11.  The  committee  now  after  three  hours'  examination  of  the  com- 
plaints against  Mr.  Schroter,  presented  the  result  of  their  investigation 
to  the  Ministerium  in  writing.  They  had  found  him  guilty  of:  1- 
Drunkenness;  2.  Lying;  3.  A  shameful  hypocrisy;  and  4.  Sordid  stin- 
giness. But  as  the  time  was  already  far  spent,  and  that  each  member 
might  meditate  before  the  Lord  upon  this  sad  and  humiliating  case,  the 


228  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

decision  was  postponed  to  the  next  day.  Hereupon  the  session  was  closed 
with  prayer,  and  all  the  members  went  to  church,  to  hear  Pastor  Schafer 
preach  on  Rom.  8  :  1. 

The  9th,  a.m. 

12.  After  prayer  the  unfinished  business  of  yesterday  was  again  taken 
up.  The  Synod  earnestly  and  thoroughly  examined  the  report  handed 
in  by  the  Committee,  and  Mr.  Schroter  and  the  two  delegates  who  had 
brought  the  complaints  were  brought  in.  Then  all  the  members  knelt 
before  the  Lord  Who  knoweth  the  heart,  and  the  President  in  a 
fervent  prayer  besought  the  Lord,  that  by  His  Spirit  He  direct  all  the 
members  in  this  important  matter,  grant  unto  him  who  was  found  guilty 
a  contrite  heart,  and  bring  him  to  a  thorough  knowledge  of  his  sins. 
After  the  prayer  he  earnestly  addressed  Mr.  Schroter,  and  solemnly  ex- 
horted him  in  the  presence  of  God  that  he  should  not  increase  his 
offence  by  denying  it,  but  by  an  honest  confession  should  give  glory  to 
God.  A  deep  sadness  reigned  throughout  the  assembly.  Mr.  Schroter 
confessed  that  he  was  guilty  of  all  the  charges,  and  promised  publicly 
to  make  good  in  the  congregations  the  offence  given.  The  entire  assem- 
bly was  moved  to  tears.  His  open-hearted  confession  to  some  extent 
propitiated  many  members,  who  on  the  preceding  day  had  insisted  upon 
his  entire  exclusion.  It  was  therefore  resolved,  that,  Mr.  Schroter  hav- 
ing by  his  conduct  severed  his  connection  with  the  Ministerium,  since 
he  recognizes  and  confesses  his  transgression,  and  has  promised  to  reform, 
be  restored  to  membership,  as  soon  as,  in  accordance  with  the  promise, 
he  has  made  public  reparation  for  the  offence  publicly  given. 

Further,  resolved,  that  he  be  again  earnestly  warned  that,  if  no  im- 
provement follows,  and  he  returns  to  his  former  conduct,  he  shall  be 
entirely  excluded  from  the  Ministerium. 

13.  Letters  from  Dr.  Kunze,  Pastor  Voigt  and  Moller,  were  read  to 
the  Synod,  in  which  the  gentlemen  named,  excused  themselves,  that 
they  could  not  attend  this  year's  conference.  The  session  closed  with 
prayer. 

p.  M. 

14.  After  prayer,  the  license  of  Licentiate  Mr.  Lutge  was,  upon  his 
request  renewed  for  a  year,  with  the  admonition  that  he  should  dili- 
gently study  the  original  languages,  and  the  other  theological  branches. 

15.  Also  a  letter  from  Culpepper  was  read,  in  which  the  congrega- 
tions requested,  that  their  preacher  Licentiate  Carpenter  be  granted  per- 
mission also  to  administer  the  Lord's  Supper. 

Resolved,  That  his  license  be  also  extended  to  administration  of  the 
Lord's  Supper  and  Confirmation. 


FORTY-SECOND  CONVENTION,  1789.  220 

The  Synod  hereupon  proceeded  to  the  election  of  a  President,  a  Sec- 
retary, and  a  place  of  the  next  General  Meeting.  Dr.  Muhlenberg  was 
chosen  President,  Pastor  Melsheimer,  Secretary,  and  Philadelphia  the 
place  of  meeting. 

Hereupon  the  President  closed  the  Synod  with  prayer,  and  commended 
all  the  members  to  the  gracious  guidance  and  leading  of  the  faith- 
fill  (ireat  Shepherd.  They  again  went  to  the  church,  to  hear  Pastor 
Ernst  preach  on  John  10 :  14,  15.  After  the  sermon  the  pastor  loci, 
Mr.  Kurz,  thanked  the  members  for  the  love  shown  the  Lebanon  con- 
gregation. 

Henrich  Muhlenberg, 

p.  t.  President. 
Fr.  Val.  Melsheimer, 

p.  t.  Secretary. 


FORTY-THIRD  CONVENTION. 

1790. 

[Protocol  of  the  Synodical  Meeting  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran 

mlnisterium  in  north  america,  held  in  philadelphia, 

from  May  30th  to  June  2d,  1790]. 


Already  on  May  29th,  most  members  of  the  Rev.  Ministerium  arrived 
at  the  place  mentioned,  in  order  to  attend  the  meeting. 

May  30th,  being  the  Festival  of  the  Holy  Trinity,  they  all  went  to 
Zion's  Church.  Dr.  Muhlenberg  preached  in  the  morning  on  I  Thess. 
5:  12,  13.  Pastor  Schulz  in  the  afternoon  on  I  John  5:  9-12,  and 
Dr.  Kunze  in  the  evening  on  John  21  :  16.  Large  audiences  were 
present  at  these  earnest  and  impressive  sermons. 

In  St.  Michael's  Church,  Pastor  Melsheimer  preached  in  the  morning 
on  John  13 :  30,  and  Pastor  Weinland  made  an  address  on  Ps.  34 :  12, 
to  all  the  young  people  of  the  congregation. 

On  May  31st,  A.  M.,  the  business  session  was  opened  in  the  sacristy  of 
Zion's  Church. 

The  members  present  were  : 

1.  Dr.  Muhlenberg,  from  Lancaster,  p.  t  prces. 

2.  "    Helmuth,  pastor  loci. 

3.  "    Kunze,  from  New  York. 

4.  Pastor  Wilh.  Kurz,  from  Lebanon. 

5.  "  Voigt,  from  Peiksland. 

6.  "  Schulz,  from  Tulpehocken. 

7.  "  Krug,  from  Friedrichsstadt,  Maryland. 

8.  "  Schmidt,  pastor  loci. 

9.  "  Jung,  from  Hagerstown,  Maryland. 

10.  "  Roller,  from  Goschenhoppen. 

11.  "  Sehroter,  from  Hanovertown. 

12.  "  Lehman,  from  Mesillum. 

13.  "  Moller,  from  New  Holland. 

14.  "  Ernst,  from  Greenwich,  New  Jersey. 

15.  "  Weinland,  from  New  Hanover. 
230 


FORTY-THIRD    CONVENTION,    1790.  231 

16.  Pastor  Daniel  Kurz,  from  Baltimore. 

17.  "  Schaifer,  from  Germantown. 

18.  "         Melsheimer,  from  Hanovertown,  p.  t.  stcretary. 

Licentlati : 

1.  Mr.  Carpenter,  from  Virginia. 

2.  "     Jang,  from  Manheim. 

Senior  Kurz,  from  Baltimore;  Pastor  Goring,  from  Yorktown,  and 
the  two  licentiates,  Enderlein,  from  Schamoky ;  and  Hinkel,  from  Vir- 
ginia, excused  themselves  in  writing. 

Dr.  Muhlenberg  reported  to  the  Synod,  that  in  the  summer  of  the 
past  year,  a  man  named  Mace,  who  for  some  years  had  been  a  school- 
master  in  Pennsylvania,  had  through  diligent  study  acquired  a  fair 
knowledge  of  theology,  and  at  present  lives  in  Kentucky,  had  asked 
him  for  a  license,  which  he,  after  a  closer  examination  of  his  abilities, 
had  also  granted  him.  The  Dr.  hoped  that  partly  the  remoteness  of 
this  field,  and  the  fact  that  it  was  entirely  without  German  preache^ 
and  partly  the  inconvenience  of  calling  a  Synod  without  loss  of  time, 
might  sufficiently  justify  his  action. 

The  Synod  found  these  reasons  satisfactory,  and  declared  the  license 
granted  to  Mr.  Mace  valid. 

2.  Candidate  Johann  David  Jung,  who  came  from  Germany  in  the 
Fall  of  '89,  and  had  studied  in  Leipzig,  handed  to  the  Synod  several 
recommendations  from  Germany,  with  the  request  that  he  be  received. 
Among  these  recommendations  was  also  a  licentia  concionandi,  given  by 
Superintendent  Pratge  in  Stade,  together  with  other  testimonials  from 
worthy  preachers  of  Germany-     It  was  therefore  resolved, 

That  the  license  given  by  Dr.  Muhlenberg  ad  interim  be  recalled,  and 
another  prepared  either  for  the  place  where  Mr.  Jung  is  at  present,  or 
for  other  congregations  that  may  be  found. 

3.  The  letter  of  excuse  from  Senior  Kurz  was  read  to  the  Synod.  In 
it  the  Senior  regretted  that  his  age  and  weakness  prevented  him  from 
attending  Conference  this  year,  exhorted  the  brethren  to  earnestness  in 
the  discharge  of  their  duties,  and  asked  to  be  remembered  by  all  in 
their  prayers  before  the  Lord. 

4.  A  letter  from  the  Grinitsch  congregation  in  Jersey  was  laid  before 
the  Synod  by  a  delegate,  stating  that  the  congregation  desire  to  ex- 
change their  present  preacher,  Mr.  Ernst,  for  some  other  minister. 

Pastor  Ernst  stated  that  be  was  willing  to  give  up  the  congregation 
in  September  of  this  year,  if  they  would  pay  the  salary  still  due  him. 

5.  A  man  named  Ahl,  who  had  set  himself  up  as  a  preacher,  1,  com- 


232  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

plained  to  the  Ministerium  of  the  conduct  of  Pastor  Ernst  towards  him ; 
2,  requested  to  be  received  as  a  member.  As  to  the  first  point,  he  had 
publicly  accused  Pastor  Ernst  of  gross  sins,  so  that  he  was  forced,  in 
defense  of  his  innocence  and  honor,  to  sue  Mr.  Ahl  at  law.  The  court 
had  acquitted  Pastor  Ernst  and  condemned  Mr.  Ahl  to  pay  the  costs, 
and  besides  imposed  a  fine  upon  him.  The  Ministerium  did  not  believe 
itself  authorized  to  overthrow  this  sentence  of  the  court ;  but  it  shall 
endeavor  to  persuade  Pastor  Ernst  that  he  be  satisfied  with  the  pay- 
ment of  the  money  spent  by  him  on  the  trial.  In  reference  to  the  sec- 
ond point :  Pastors  Bushkirk  and  Roller  were  commissioned  by  the 
Synod  to  investigate  into  the  character  of  Mr.  Ahl  and  report  to  the 
Ministerium.  At  the  same  time  a  letter  was  given  to  the  two  gentle- 
men from  a  certain  George  Vogel,  who  made  some  weighty  objections 
against  his  reception. 
Closed  with  prayer. 

p.  M. 

6.  After  prayer,  two  letters  from  Friedrichstadt,  in  Maryland,  were 
read.  The  congregation  had  held  a  general  election,  and  now  it  ap- 
peared that  ninety  persons  had  voted  in  favor  of  retaining  Pastor  Krug, 
and  twenty-two  for  a  change.  It  was  therefore  resolved,  that,  since  a 
majority  of  votes  was  in  favor  of  the  remaining  of  Pastor  Krug,  the 
Ministerium  could  do  nothing  more  than  recommend  that  he  accept  a 
call  to  other  congregations,  if  such  should  be  received. 

Further  resolved,  that  Dr.  Helmuth  shall  accompany  this  decision 
with  a  letter  to  the  congregation. 

7.  Two  men,  named  Hinkel  and  Zink,  presented  themselves  to  the 
Synod  and  asked  for  admission. 

Resolved,  That  both  shall  write  out  an  account  of  their  lives,  and  the 
substance  of  their  preaching,  as  briefly  as  possible,  and  hand  them  to  the 
Ministerium  for  examination. 

8.  Letters  from  Hegerstadt  were  laid  before  the  Ministerium  by  dele- 
gates. These  letters  contained  many  complaints  against  their  present 
preacher,  Mr.  Jung.  The  Ministerium  examined  these  complaints  in 
the  presence  of  the  preacher  and  the  delegates.  Some  of  them,  especially 
the  neglect  of  catechisation  and  due  visitation  of  schools,  Mr.  Jung 
sadly  confessed  ;  others,  on  the  contrary,  he  denied  as  being  not  proven. 
Hereupon  the  question  was  brought  before  the  Synod  for  decision, 
whether  the  complaints  against  Mr.  Jung  declared  him  unfit  for  office, 
and  when  this  question  was  answered  with  NO,  it  was 

Resolved,  That  Pastor  Jung  be  kindly  admonished  in  regard  to  his 
neglect  of  catechisation  and  due  visitation  of  schools,  and  that  in  all 
points  of  the  complaint  against  him,  the  entire  Ministerium  found  noth- 


FORTY-THIRD  CONVENTION,   1790.  233 

ing  that  would  declare  him  unfit  for  his  office  ;  that  therefore  the  Min- 
isterium  cannot  approve  of  the  steps  taken  by  many  members  of  the 
Congregation,  to  call  another  preacher  ;  but  rather  desires  that  the  com- 
plaining  members  be  reconciled  to  their  pastor,  and  forgive  and  forget 
faults  which  he  admitted  with  deep  regret,  and  also  promised  improve- 
ment. This  decision  was  accompanied  with  a  letter  to  the  congregation. 
With  reference  to  catechisation,  it  was  resolved,  that  it  is  the  duty  of 
each  preacher,  wherever  possible,  to  hold  a  catechetical  service  (Kinder- 
lehre)  every  Sunday  in  his  congregations. 

9.  A  member  of  the  Germantown  congregation  brought  his  complaints, 
against  their  pastor,  Mr.  Weiuland.  As  the  reason  for  these  complaints 
....  rested  upon  a  misunderstanding,  they  were  reconciled  .... 
again  before  the  Ministerium. 

The  Synod  hereupon  closed  with  prayer,  and  went  to  church  to  hear 
Pastor  Wilhelm  Kurz  preach  on  Luke  15 :  20. 

June  1st,  a.m. 

• 

10.  A  letter  from  Shamokin  was  read  to  the  Synod,  in  which  the 
congregation  asked  for  a  preacher.  As  the  Ministerium  suggested  Pas- 
tor Ernst,  he  promised  to  undertake  a  journey  of  visit  to  that  region. 

1 1 .  Also  a  letter  from  Licentiate  Enderlein  was  laid  before  the  Synod, 
and  it  was  resolved,  that  his  license  be  renewed. 

12.  The  two  gentlemen,  Hinkel  and  Zink,  now  handed  in  to  the 
Synod  their  papers.  The  Ministerium  saw  from  them  that  both  gentle- 
men did  not  possess  the  necessary  qualifications  for  the  ministry,  and 
therefore,  resolved,  that  their  request  to  be  received,  cannot  be  granted 
for  the  present. 

13.  Licentiate  Carpenter  handed  to  the  Synod,  besides  his  diary,  also 
four  complete  sermons.  In  reference  to  him  the  Ministerium  resolved, 
that  lie  be  advised  to  prepare  himself  for  a  more  thorough  examination, 
in  order  that  upon  approval  he  might  be  ordained  at  the  next  Synodical 
meeting. 

The  same  action  was  taken  in  the  case  of  Licentiate  Jung. 

14.  Also  a  letter  from  Licentiate  Hinkel  was  read,  in  which  he 
excused  himself  that  he  could  not  attend  this  year's  Synodical  Meeting; 
at  the  same  time  he  sent  four  complete  sermons  for  examination.  It 
was  hereupon  resolved,  that  his  license  be  renewed. 

dosed  with  prayer. 

June  1st,  p.m. 

15.  After  prayer,  a  delegate  handed  in  letters  from  the  congregations 
served  by  Pastor  Bchroter  up  to  this  time.  The  Ministerium  was 
gratified  to  see  from  these  letters  that  Pastor  Bchroter  had  reformed  ; 


234  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

and  as  it  desired  that  all  further  quarrels  be  prevented,  it  was  resolved, 
for  this  reason  alone,  that  the  former  accusers  of  Mr.  Schroter  should 
return  the  papers  entrusted  to  them  by  the  Ministerium,  and  the  con- 
gregations be  earnestly  admonished  not  to  act  uncharitably  towards 
former  accusers,  but  to  treat  them  as  brethren.  At  the  same  time  Pas- 
tor Schroter  was  again  admitted  as  a  member  of  the  Ministerium. 

16.  Pastor  Goring's  letter  was  read  to  the  Ministerium  in  which  he 
excused  his  absence  this  time,  at  the  same  time  expressed  his  doubts 
concerning  the  accusations  brought  against  Mr.  Schroter,  asked  for  a 
revision  of  the  judgment  passed  upon  him  at  the  last  Conference,  and 
besides,  gave  Mr.  Schroter  a  good  testimonial  concerning  the  training  of 
his  children  at  home.  This  letter  made  a  strong  impression  in  favor  of 
Pastor  Schroter  upon  some  members. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer,  and  the  members  of  the  Minis- 
terium again  went  to  church,  where  Pastor  Roller  edified  the  congrega- 
tion from  Matth.  7 :  13,  14.  After  the  sermon  the  pastor  loci,  Dr. 
Helmuth,  made  a  brief  address  to  the  congregation  in  general,  thanked 
the  members  of  the  Ministerium  for  the  love  shown  the  Philadelphia 
congregation,  and  wished  them  all  God's  blessing  and  assistance  in  the 
performance  of  their  important  duties. 

Mr.  Reiche,  who  is  sufficiently  known  to  the  Ministerium,  and  at 
present  is  in  needy  circumstances,  asked  for  assistance  in  his  necessity. 
A  collection  was  gathered  for  him,  amounting  to  13  thlr.,  6  sh.,  3  d. 

June  2d,  a.m. 

17.  After  the  prayer,  a  letter  from  several  congregations  in  York 
County  was  read,  in  which  they  asked  for  a  preacher.  Resolved,  that 
Pastor  Ernst,  on  his  journey  to  Shamokin,  also  visit  these  congregations. 

18.  For  Carlisle  and  the  congregations  united  with  it,  Licentiate 
Jung  was  proposed,  and  Pastor  Melsheimer  was  commissioned  to  attend 
to  it  further,  as  he  had  promised  a  visitation  journey  into  those  regions. 

19.  For  the  Holzschwamm  and  adjoining  congregations,  Pastor 
Schroter  and  Licentiate  Hinkel  were  suggested,  from  which  gentlemen 
they  might  choose  their  future  preacher. 

20.  Upon  motion,  it  was  resolved,  that  Pastor  Graf,  in  New  German- 
town,  be  invited  to  the  next  Conference  by  the  President. 

21.  Dr.  Kunze  read  several  motions  to  the  Synod,  which  he  washed 
that  they  might  be  taken  up  for  further  consideration.  As  these  motions 
were  recognized  as  being  very  important,  and  the  time  was  already  far 
spent,  it  was  resolved,  that  the  motions  made  by  Dr.  Kunze  be  circulated 
and  taken  up  at  the  next  Conference. 

22.  Upon  motion,  it  was  resolved,  that  the  pastors  loci  shall,  in  the 


FORTY-THIRD  CONVENTION,   1790.  235 

name  of  the  Ministerium,  thank  the  Philadelphia  congregation  for  the 
love  and  respect  shown  the  Synod. 

23.  Further,  resolved,  that  thanks  he  extended  to  the  President  and 
the  Secretary  for  their  diligence  and  care  in  fulfilling  their  office. 

The  Synod  hereupon  proceeded  to  the  election  of  a  President,  Secre- 
tary, and  the  place  for  the  next  general  meeting;  Pastor  Scliniidt  was 
chosen  President,  Dr.  Ilelmuth  Secretary,  and  New  Hanover  (the  Falk- 
ner  Sehwam)  as  the  place  of  the  Synodieal  Meeting.  All  the  memhers 
then  l)o wed  hefore  the  Lord,  and  the  President  prayed  to  the  Great 
Shepherd  of  the  sheep,  that  He  abide  with  His  poor  servants  in  the 
future,  and  crown  the  work  of  their  hands  with  eternal  blessing  in  all 
their  congregations,  to  the  praise  of  His  glorious  name. 

Henrich  Muhlenberg, 

P.  t.  President. 


FORTY-FOURTH  CONVENTION. 

1791. 

Protocol  of  the  Synodical  meeting  of  the    Evangelical    Lutheran 

mlnisterium  in  pennsylvania  and  the  adjacent  states,  held  in 

New  Hanover  Township,  in  Montgomery  County,  June  19-22, 

1791. 


On  June  18th  most  of  the  members  of  the  Ministerium  arrived. 

Sunday,  June  19th,  a.  m. 
Dr.  Kunze  edified  the  meeting  in  the  church  from  Acts  15 :  12. 

P.M. 

Candidate  Jung  preached  on  John  14  :  6. 

Monday,  June    20th,  a.m. 
Pastor  Schiifer  preached  on  Matth.  5 :  2. 

After  the  sermon  the  business  was  begun,  the  following  gentlemen 
being  present : 

1.  Pastor  Voigt,  from  Pikesland. 

2.  "        Krug,  from  Friedrichstown. 

•   3.       "       Schultze,  from  Tulpehocken. 

4.  Doctor  Helmuth,  Secret,  of  the  Miuist.,  from  Philadelphia. 

5.  Pastor  Schmidt,  Prseses  of  the  Minist.,  from  Philadelphia. 

6.  Doctor  Kuntze,  from  New  York. 

7.  "        Muhlenberg,  from  Lancaster. 

8.  Pastor  Weinland,  from  New  Hanover. 

9.  "        Buskirk,  from  Macunsky. 

10.  "  Wildbahn,  from  Reading. 

11.  "  Roller,  from  Alt  Goschenhoppen. 

12.  "  Lehman,  from  Mesillum. 

13.  "  Schroter,  from  Hanovertown. 

14.  "  Ernst,  from  Maxitany. 

15.  "  Moeller,  from  New  Holland. 

16.  "  Schafer,  from  German  town. 
236 


FORTY-FOUKTII   CONVENTION,  1791.  237 

17.  Candidate  Liitge,  from  Schippenstown. 

18.  "  Zimmerman  [alias  Carpenter],  from  Virginia. 

19.  "  Jung. 

Pastor  Wilhelm  Kurtz,  in  Lebanon,  and  Pastor  Goering,  in  York- 
town,  excused  themselves  in  writing  From  Senior  Kurtz  and  Pastor 
Daniel  Kurtz,  in  Baltimore,  Pastor  Jung,  in  Hegerstown,  and  Pastor 
Melsheimer,  In  McAllister,  no  letters  were  received. 

The  meeting  was  opened  in  the  church  with  prayer.  The  delegates 
from  the  respective  congregations  wTere  heard.  Most  of  them  brought 
their  reports  in  writing  ;  hereupon  the  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

P.M. 

The  Ministerium  assembled  in  Mr.  Weinland's  dwelling,  and  after 
Pastor  Voigt  had  made  a  fervent  prayer,  the  following  business  was 
taken  up  and  transacted  : 

1.  Mr.  Billmeyer,  printer  from  Germantown,  asked  for  the  right  of 
publication  for  the  new  Hymnbook,  which  was  unanimously  granted 
and  prepared,  as  follows,  to  wit : 

Whereas  Michael  Billmeyer,  from  Germantown,  printer,  requested  the 
Evangelical  Lutheran  Ministerium  to  grant  him  the  right  of  publica- 
tion [copyright]  for  the  new  Hymnbook,  and  after  careful  investigation 
it  was  found  that  the  only  agreement  concerning  printing  was  made 
with  the  above  Billmeyer;  he  has  also  printed  it  in  partnership  with 
Peter  Leibert ;  but  the  partnership  between  the  above-named  Bill- 
meyer and  Leibert  is  now  dissolved,  and  said  Billmeyer  has  also 
stated  that  his  former  partner  and  father-in-law,  Peter  Leibert,  has  de- 
clared that  he  will  make  no  claim  to  the  right  of  publication,  and  it  is 
now  necessary,  in  order  to  retain  his  right,  to  have  the  title  of  said  book 
registered  in  the  office  of  the  Secretary  of  the  District  Court  of  Penn- 
sylvania, according  to  the  recent  laws  of  the  Congress  of  the' United 
States : — it  is 

Resolved,  That  to  the  said  Michael  Billmeyer,  to  him,  his  heirs  and 
assignees,  for  and  in  view  of  one  of  the  said  Hymnbooks  bound,  which 
he  has  handed  to  the  Ministerium,  and  the  reception  of  which  is  hereby 
acknowledged,  the  right  be  granted,  and  hereby  is  granted,  with  ex<  lu- 
sion  of  all  other  claims,  to  print  as  his  property,  to  sell  and  have  regis- 
tered in  the  office  of  the  Secretary  of  the  District  Court  for  the  District 
of  Pennsylvania  the  book  entitled  "  Erbauliche  Liedersammlung,"  etc., 
in  accordance  with  an  act  of  the  Congress  of  the  United  States,  entitled 
u  An  Act  for  the  encouragement  of  learning,  by  securing  the  copies  o 
maps,  charts  and  books  to  the  authors  and  proprietors  of  such  copies, 
during  the  times  therein  mentioned." 


233  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Resolved,  That  Michael  Billmeyer  neither  shall  nor  dare,  without  the 
knowledge  of  the  Ministerium,  prepare  a  new  edition  of  the  said  Hymn- 
book,  because  the  Ministerium  might,  perhaps,  wish  to  make  various 
alterations. 

Resolved,  That  in  case  it  be  found  in  the  future  that,  through  laws 
already  made,  or  yet  to  be  made,  something  further  be  necessary  on  the 
part  of  the  Ministerium  for  the  above  right  given  to  Mr.  Billmeyer,  all 
the  members  herewith  empower  the  President  to  make  all  further  dis- 
positions in  their  name. 

Resolved,  That  the  above  resolutions  be  handed  to  Mr.  Billmeyer  and 
signed  by  all  members  of  the  Ministerium.  Given  at  the  Synodical 
Meeting  at  New  Hanover,  June  20,  1791. 

[The  names  of  the  assembled  preachers.] 

2.  Two  delegates  from  the  Township  Bedminster,  in  Bucks  County 
asked  in  the  name  of  the  congregation  for  Mr.  Wichterman  as  their 
pastor,  whereupon  it  was 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Wichterman  write  a  brief  exposition  on  John  3 : 
16,  and  that  afterwards  he  be  more  fully  examined  on  this  passage  and 
his  exposition. 

3.  A  candidate  named  Dill,  who  came  here  from  Germany,  applied 
for  admission  into  the  Ministerium,  but  as  at  the  same  time  various  ac- 
cusations were  made  against  him,  the  accusers  were  first  heard  ;  their 
statements,  however,  were  not  sufficiently  weighty  that  on  their  account 
he  could  be  entirely  refused.  Others  from  the  region  in  which  he  lives 
spoke  well  of  him,  and  as  his  testimonials  from  Germany  also  are  good, 
it  was 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Dill  shall  have  a  license  for  one  year,  after 
having  been  examined  to-morrow.  The  situation  and  circumstances 
of  the  congregations  where  Mr.  Dill  is,  furnished  occasion,  to 
Messrs.  Ernst  and  Lehman,  to  make  lengthy  declarations  against  one 
another  concerning  all  kinds  of  sad  differences  between  them.  Many 
members  were  most  unpleasantly  impressed  with  these  statements,  and 
they  felt  themselves  compelled  from  the  depth  of  their  hearts  to  pray 
the  Lord  to  be  patient  with  us. 

Tuesday,  June  21,  a  m. 

4.  After  prayer,  a  letter  from  Greenwich,  in  New  Jersey,  was  read, 
in  which  the  Ministerium  was  requested  to  make  provision  that  now 
and  then  a  visit  be  paid  them  by  one  or  other  of  the  members  of  the 
Ministerium,  until  their  vacant  congregation  would  again  be  supplied, 
whereupon,  it  was — 


PORTY-FOUBTB   CONVENTION,  1791.  239 

Resolved,  That  Messrs.  Buskirk,  Roller,  and  SclnifFer  should  attend 
to  this. 

5.  A  letter  from  the  congregation  in  Schippenstown  was  read,  in 
which  the  Ministerium  was  requested  again  to  renew  the  license  of  Mr. 
Liitge,who  also  asked  fori!  in  person,  whereupon  it  was  unanimously — 

Resolved,  That  Mr    Liitge's  license  be  renewed  for  one  year. 

6*.  After  the  exposition,  which  had  yesterday  been  assigned  to  Mr. 
Wichterman,  was  read,  and  he  was  further  examined,  the  Ministerium 
found  that  it  might  well  venture  to  give  the  said  Wichterman  a  license 
for  one  year. 

7.  The  attorneys  (Mandatorii)  of  the  Directors  of  the  Halle  Orphans' 
Home  distributed  the  following  sums  from  the  interest  of  the  Eodel- 
heim  legacy,  to  the  preachers  present,  as  a  contribution  toward  the 
payment  of  their  traveling  expenses,  to  wit:  To  Messrs.  Voigt,  18/9; 
King,  18/9;  Bchulze,  18/9;  Helmuth,  18/9;  Schmidt,  18/9; 
Kuntze,  18/9;  Muhlenberg,  18/9;  Weinland,  18/9;  Buskirk, 
18/9;  Wildbahn,  18/9;  Roller,  18/9;  Lehman,  18/9;  Schroter, 
18/9;  Ernst,  18/9;  Moller,  18/9;  Schaffer,  18/9;  Liitge,  18/9; 
Jung,  18/9;  Carpenter,  22/6.    Total,  18  pounds  Pennsylvania  money. 

8.  Resolved,  That  the  preachers  in  Philadelphia  have  a  ministerial 
seal  made,  alter  the  model  presented,  and  pay  the  cost  from  the  interest 
of  the  Rodelheim  legacy. 

9.  After  Mr.  Dill  was  examined,  a  license  for  one  year  was  given 
him,  with  the  condition,  however,  that  if  he  wished  to  be  recognized  as 
a  member  of  the  Ministerium  he  should  entirely  stay  away  from  the 
congregation  at  Trexler's  Church,  because  said  church  is  within  two 
miles  of  another  church,  which  Pastor  Bushkirk  serves. 

10.  Two  letters  from  Frederickstown,  concerning  Pastor  Krug,  having 
been  read,  one  against  him,  the  other  in  favor  of  him  ;  the  Ministerium, 
after  long  deliberation,  resolved  to  give  the  following  answer  to  the 
said  congregation,  viz: 

Though,  from  the  statements  made  by  the  two  opposing  parties,  the 
Ministerium  cannot  possibly  conclude  that  Pastor  Krug  is  unfit  for  the 
office  on  account  of  his  teaching  or  life,  but  will  at  all  times  be  ready 
ity  to  his  constant  faithfulness  and  uprightness,  as  also  of  his 
thorough  knowledge  of  the  doctrine  of  our  most  holy  faith;  it  feels 
constrained,  in  view  of  the  disordered  state  of  the  congregation,  as  well 
as  of  the  evident  bodily  weakness  of  our  brother,  earnestly  to  advise 
a  change.  The  Ministerium  promises  its  assistance  in  this  direction 
wherever  a  door  should  be  open,  and  recognizes  it  as  Pastor  Krug's 
duty  to  seek  such  opportunity  himself,  and  wherever  it  offers  to  accept 
it  out  of  love  to  the  Kingdom  of  God;  but  also  requests  the  entire 


240  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

congregation,  and  each  of  the  parties  so  sadly  divided,  for  the  love  of 
Christ,  upon  which  the  congregation  is  built,  in  the  meantime  to  bear 
with  one  another  in  love,  to  farther  the  intention  of  the  Ministerium, 
and  until  this  can  be  attained,  not  to  offend  the  deserving  Rev.  Mr. 
Krug  nor  each  other.  It  is  also  stated  that  the  Ministerium  has  already 
in  view  active  measures  to  carry  out  its  intentions  as  speedily  as  pos- 
sible. The  Ministerium  only  adds,  that  it  is  an  established  rule  of  its 
method  of  procedure,  from  which  it  cannot  depart,  notwithstanding  the 
above,  never  to  force  a  transfer  without  the  will  and  free  decision 
of  the  preacher. 

Afternoon. 
After  prayer, 

11.  A  letter  from  Rev.  Mr.  Schroter's  congregations  was  read,  in 
which,  among  other  matters,  it  was  stated  that  the  former  accusers  of 
Mr.  Schroter  had  made  unfair  use  of  a  certain  decision  of  the  Minis- 
terium, which  had  been  made  several  years  ago,  in  view  of  the  circum- 
stances of  Mr.  Schroter  at  that  time ;  whereupon  it  was — 

Resolved,  That  Dr.  Kuntze  write  a  few  lines  to  Pastor  Melsheimer, 
in  which  he  be  requested,  if  possible,  to  recover  from  the  accusers  of 
Mr.  Schroter,  the  written  statement  of  the  decision  on  this  point 
reached  last  year ;  or,  at  least,  exhort  them  to  peace  and  quiet. 

12.  Iu  letters  from  Mount  Joy  and  Weiseichenland,  the  Ministerium 
was  requested  to  give  them  a  certain  Mr.  Lenz  as  their  pastor.  Mr. 
Leuz  appeared,  and,  after  a  conversation  with  him,  he  was  exhorted  to  con- 
tinue to  fear  God  from  the  heart,  to  serve  the  Lord  in  simplicity,  but  not 
to  go  into  other  congregations  than  those  in  which  he  is  at  present,  nor 
administer  the  sacraments  in  them  except "  Nothtaufe ;  "  that  under  these 
conditions  he  shall  appear  again  a  year  hence,  and  in  the  meantime 
apply  himself  to  diligent  study,  especially  in  orthography.  The  Minis- 
terium declared  that  only  then  would  it  be  ready  for  a  final  decision 
regarding  his  request  and  that  of  the  congregations,  which  have  taken 
an  interest  in  him,  and  that  in  the  meantime  he  seek  and  use  the  advice 
and  assistance  of  Dr.  Muhlenberg  and  Pastor  Mol'er. 

13.  A  candidate  named  Espig  appeared,  and  with  him  several  dele- 
gates from  the  congregation  in  New  Goschenhoppen,  who  asked  for  the 
said  Mr.  Espig  as  their  pastor.  After  an  examination  a  license  for  one 
year  was  given  him,  after  he  had  formally  renounced  the  ordination  which 
he  had  received  from  the  dismissed  Insp.  Gotz  in  Germany ;  it  was  also 
resolved,  that  he  be  under  the  supervision  of  Pastor  Weinland  and 
Roller. 

14.  A  paper  from  the  honorable  corporation  of  St.  Michael's  and 
Zion's  congregations  in  and  about  Philadelphia  was  read,  in  which  the 


FORTY-FOURTH  CONVENTION,   1791.  241 

said  corporation  stated,  that  in  their  opinion  the  general  welfare  of  all 
the  Lutheran  congregations  would  he  advanced,  if  the  delegates  of  the 
respective  congregations  had  a  seat  and  a  vote  in  every  meeting  of  the 
Ministerium — whereupon  it  was 

Resolved,  That  each  of  the  United  Congregations  be  authorized  to 
send  one  delegate  to  the  next  Synodical  Meeting,  who  under  certain 
restrictions  can  attend  the  deliberations  of  the  Ministerium,  but  must 
provide  for  his  own  expenses  and  lodging — further  it  was 

Resolved,  That  Drs.  Kuntze  and  Helmuth  draw  up  a  plan,  in  which 
the  above  resolution  be  further  defined,  and  that  they  lay  this  plan 
before  the  Synodical  Meeting  next  year. 

Resolved,  That  the  two  members  named,  look  over  the  Ministerial 
Order,  and  change  it  as  they  judge  necessary,  and  present  such  altera- 
tions also  to  the  next  meeting. 

Closed  with  prayer. 

Wednesday,  June  22d,  a.m. 

Opened  with  prayer. 

15.  Papers  by  a  man  named  Ahl  were  handed  in,  in  which  he  requests 
to  be  received  into  the  Ministerium.  After  mature  consideration,  it  was 
resolved,  that  the  Ministerium  can  have  nothing  to  do  with  him. 

16.  A  candidate  named  Stock,  who  formally  was  principal  of  a  school, 
requested  that  the  Ministerium  ordain  him  for  the  ministry.  After  due 
consideration  the  Ministerium  advised  him  to  remain  in  his  school  for  a 
time,  as  he  could  there  labor  profitably,  and  besides  had  no  call  to  the 
ministry  from  a  congregation. 

17.  At  the  request  of  Pastor  Weinland  it  was  resolved  to  cancel  cer- 
tain words  in  the  Protocol  of  the  Ministerium  for  the  year  1790,  viz.:  in 
the  9th  section,  in  the  3d,  4th,  5th  and  6th  lines. 

18.  Resolved,  That  the  Secretary  shall  look  through  the  Protocol,  and 
copy  all  the  decisions  of  the  Ministerium  into  a  book,  and  they  shall 
determine  our  usual  way  of  proceeding,  and  serve  as  a  rule,  and  that 
<wr\i  decisions  shall  have  the  same  force  as  the  articles  of  the  Ministerial 
Order  themselves.  Likewise,  that  it  be  the  Secretary's  duty  to 
familiarize  himself  with  such  decisions  of  the  kind  described,  in  order 
that  he  may  at  all  times  inform  the  members  who  ask  regarding  them. 

19.  In  connection  with  the  motion  that  the  Candidates  Zimmerman 
[alias  Carpenter]  and  Jung  be  ordained  to  the  ministry,  an  incident  was 
mentioned  which  occurred  between  the  said  Mr.  Jung  and  a  Mr.  Meyer, 
in  which  Mr.  Jung  made  a  certain  written  declaration  to  satisfy  the  said 
Meyer.  After  due  <•<  moderation,  the  opinion  of  the  united  members  of  the 
Ministerium  was,  that  the  writing  which  Candidate  Jung  gave  to  Mr. 

16 


242  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Meyer,  was  the  effect  of  extreme  fear  and  perplexity,  that  from  his 
relation  it  can  be  noticed,  that  he  knew  the  facts  concerning  Mr.  Meyer 
in  Germany  only  through  the  relation  of  other  persons,  and  possibly  at 
the  time  when  he  signed  the  writing  prepared  by  Mr.  Meyer,  through 
his  representations  thought  them  more  innocent ;  and  that  the  Minis- 
terium  enjoin  him  to  make  no  other  use  of  whatever  documents  refer- 
ing  to  the  matter  might  be  sent  to  him  from  Germany,  than  to  recover 
from  said  Meyer  the  writing  signed  by  him — whereupon  it  was 

Resolved,  That  the  Candidates,  Johann  David  Jung  and  Wilhelm 
Zimmerman,  be  now  ordained. 

20.  The  Ministerium  then  chose  by  a  majority  of  votes,  Pastor  Schmidt 
as  President,  Doctor  Helmuth  as  Secretary,  and  Lancaster  as  the  place  of 
the  next  Synodical  Meeting. 

21.  Finally  both  the  above-mentioned  Candidates,  Jung  and  Zimmer- 
man, were  ordained  and  solemnly  consecrated  to  the  ministry  by  the 
President  in  the  presence  of  the  Ministerium  and  several  delegates  of 
the  congregations,  whereupon  the  President  closed  with  prayer,  and  the 
assembly  sang  the  verse,  "  Was  ich  gethan  hab  und  gelehrt,"  from 
"  Nun  freut  euch  lieben  Christen,"  etc.  Then  the  members  of  the  Min- 
isterium parted  and  started  on  their  journey  to  their  respective  homes. 

This  is  witnessed  by 

Johann  Friedrich  Schmidt, 

P.  t.  Praeses  Ministerii. 
F.  H.  Christian  Helmuth, 
P.  t.  Secretary. 


FORTY-FIFTH  CONVENTION. 

1792. 


In  the  year  1792,  on  the  3d  of  June,  the  members  of  the  United 
Evangelical  Lutheran  Ministerium  of  Pennsylvania  and  adjacent  States 
together  with  various  delegates,  had  arrived  at  Lancaster,  and  attended 
public  worship.  In  the  morning  Senior  Kurz  preached  on  II  Tim.  2 : 
19 ;  in  the  afternoon  President  Schmidt  on  John  5 :  39,  and  in  the 
evening  Rev.  Mr.  Melsheimer,  on  I  Cor.  3 :  21,  22. 

June  4th. 
In  the  forenoon,  at  9  o'clock,  the  preachers  and  delegates  assembled 
in  the  school-house,  and  after  the  Synodical  Meeting  had  been  opened 
with  prayer,  it  was  found  that  the  following  preachers  were  present : 

1.  Senior  Kurz. 

2.  Mr.  Wilhelm  Kurz. 

3.  "  Andreas  Krug. 

4.  "  Emanuel  Schulze. 

5.  "  Dr.  Heinrich  Helmuth,  Secretary. 

6.  "  Friedrich  Schmidt,  President. 

7.  "  Friedr.  Wildbahn. 

8.  "  Christian  Streit. 

9.  Rev.  Mr.  Roller. 

10.  "  "  Gering. 

11.  "  "  Melsheimer. 

12.  "  "  Schroter. 

13.  "  "  Moller. 

14.  "  "  Daniel  Kurz. 

15.  "  "  Schafer. 

16.  "  "  Carpenter. 

17.  And  Pastor  loci  Henrich  Muhlenberg. 

Licensed  candidates  were  present  as  follows : 

1.  Mr.  Paul  Ilinkel. 

2.  "    Diel. 

3.  "    Wichterman. 

Delegates  were  present  from:    1.  Philadelphia.     2.  Lancaster.     3. 

243 


244  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Yorktown.  4.  Friedrichsstadt.  5.  Hegersstadt,  and  from  several 
other  small  congregations. 

Letters  of  excuse  were  received  from:  1.  Dr.  Kunze.  2.  Rev.  Mr. 
Lehman.  3.  Rev.  Mr.  Ernst.  4.  Candidate  Liitge.  5.  Candidate 
Espich. 

The  transactions  of  this  day  were  as  follows : 

1.  The  Protocol  of  the  last  Synodical  Meeting  was  read.  The  dele- 
gates from  Philadelphia  expressed  the  wish  that  the  motion  made  in  the 
last  Synodical  Meeting,  viz. :  "  To  receive  the  delegates  of  the  congre- 
gations as  associated  members,"  be  now  approved. 

Hereupon  two  plans  drawn  up  by  Drs.  Helmuth  and  Kunze  were  read 
in  the  presence  of  the  delegates,  stating  how  in  future  delegates  of  the 
United  Congregations  should  attend  and  vote  with  the  preachers. 

After  the  delegates  had  withdrawn  the  two  plans  were  compared  and 
adjusted,  and  it  was  decided  that  regular  delegates  shall  have  seat  and 
vote  in  the  Synodical  Meeting,  under  certain  restrictions  which  are 
mentioned  in  the  new  Ministerial  Order. 

2.  After  the  delegates  had  returned,  letters  and  testimonials  concern- 
ing a  collection  for  a  Lutheran  Church  building  in  North  Carolina  were 
read,  aud  it  was  Resolved,  that  the  preachers  and  delegates  should  exert 
themselves  to  encourage  their  congregations  to  give  the  collectors  men- 
tioned in  the  letter  as  much  assistance  as  possible,  and  a  copy  of  this 
resolution  was  given  to  the  collectors. 

3.  Upon  motion,  it  was  Resolved,  that  the  ordained  preachers  assemble 
in  the  parsonage  to-morrow  morning,  at  6  o'clock,  in  order  to  determine 
more  in  detail  the  arrangement  for  the  Ministerial  Meeting,  in  distinc- 
tion from  the  Synodical  Meetings. 

4.  In  the  evening  Mr.  M.  Moller  delivered  a  sermon  on  John  3 :  14-16. 

June  5th. 

Early,  at  6  o'clock,  the  ordained  preachers  assembled  in  the  parson- 
age, and  further  deliberated  upon  the  arrangement  of  the  Miuisterium 
and  the  Ministerial  Meeting.  The  above  plans  were  examined  more 
closely,  and  it  was  determined,  that  a  class  of  catechists  shall  be 
established.  At  9  o'clock  the  preachers  all  went  to  the  school-house 
again,  to  take  up  Synodical  business,  and  after  prayer, 

5.  Letters  from  Friedrichsstadt,  for  and  against  Rev.  Mr.  Krug,  were 
read,  and  witnesses  heard  from  both  parties.  After  lengthy  debates,  it 
was  Resolved,  that  both  parties  be  exhorted  to  arrange  an  election  of  a 
preacher,  and  to  call  another  pastor  from  the  Ministerium  to  Friedrichs- 
stadt, and  that  this  resolution  shall  be  made  known  to  the  entire 
congregation. 


FORTY  FIFTH  CONVENTION,  1792.  245 

6.  Letters  from  York  town  and  other  congregations  united  with  it, 
were  read  ;  also  from  Canecocheague  and  neighboring  congregations. 
In  the  former  request  was  made  that  Rev.  Mr.  Goring  return  to  his 
former  congregations  ;  the  latter  petitioned  that  he  remain  in  his  present 
congregations.  Mr.  Goring  himself  had  stated  that  he  would  leave  it 
to  the  decision  of  the  Ministerium. 

Hereupon  it  was  Resolved,  that  Drs.  Helmuth,  and  Muhlenberg  and 
Rev.  Roller  be  a  committee  to  investigate  the  matter  together  with  dele- 
gates from  both  places,  and  Rev.  Goring.  The  committee  retired,  and 
soon  thereafter  proposed  the  following  action : 

That  Rev.  Mr.  Goring  be  advised  to  return  to  his  former  congrega- 
tions in  Yorktown  after  three  mouths,  and  not  earlier,  because,  under 
the  circumstances,  it  would  not  be  right  to  leave  Hegerstown  earlier ; 

That  the  Yorktown  congregation  pay  to  the  Hegerstown  congregation 
the  expenses  of  Mr.  Goring's  moving  from  York  to  Hegerstown  ; 

That  Mr.  Carpenter  on  his  return  home  go  by  way  of  Hegerstown 
and  preach  in  the  congregations  there,  to  see  whether  those  congrega- 
tions might  at  once  be  again  supplied  by  him. 

That  in  case  either  Mr.  Carpenter  or  the  congregation  do  not  decide 
to  accept  this  arrangement,  the  congregation  shall  report  to  the  Presi- 
dent, who  shall  then  invite  some  other  preacher. 

This  motion  of  the  committee  was  approved  by  the  Synodical  Meeting. 

7.  Letters  referring  to  Lebanon  were  read,  and 

Resolved,  That  as  soon  as  a  suitable  opportunity  offered  to  transfer 
Rev.  Mr.  AYilhelm  Kurz,  the  congregation  shall  be  free  to  extend  a  call 
to  another  preacher  ;  that,  in  the  meantime,  the  congregations  which 
have  no  preacher  be  served  as  much  as  circumstances  permit  by  the 
neighboring  preachers. 

8.  A  letter  from  the  so-called  Schuster's  Congregation  was  read  and 
Resolved,  that  the  members  who  belong  to  the  new  church  retain  their 
right  in  it,  but  that  they  attend  worship  in  the  old  church,  and  shall 
contribute  to  it ;  the  preacher  also  shall  preach  in  the  old  church. 

9.  A  Latin  and  German  communication  was  handed  in  by  a  certain 
Carl  Stock,  in  which  he  petitions  for  permission  to  preach.  It  was  con- 
sidered advisable  for  the  present  to  have  nothing  to  do  with  him. 

10.  Letters  concerning  Mr.  "Wichterman  were  presented,  containing 
lonialfi  from  his  former  and  his  present  congregations,  both  speak- 

ing  well  of  him.     In  the  latter  his  ordination  was  requested. 
Resolved,  that  his  license  be  renewed. 

11.  Letters  from  Mr.  Dill's  congregations  and  a  communication  from 
him  were  read.  Iu  the  former  he  is  commended,  in  the  latter  he  asks 
for  ordination. 


246  DOCUMENTARY  HISTOEY. 

Resolved,  To  renew  his  license. 

12.  A  letter  from  Mr.  Espich  was  read,  in  which  he  excused  his 
absence. 

Resolved,  To  renew  his  license. 

13.  Letters  from  Downeytown  and  Candidate  Wiegand  were  read. 
Resolved,  To  grant  him  a  license. 

14.  A  petition  from  one  Mr.  Jacinsky  was  read  and 

Resolved,  That  we  could  have  nothing  to  do  with  him,  because  he  had 
twice  already  accepted  ordination  in  a  manner  which  the  Synodical 
Meeting  disapproves. 

15.  A  letter  from  St.  John's  Church  was  read  and  resolved,  that  a 
committee  be  appointed  from  the  delegates  to  adjust  existing  differences, 
and  that  Messrs.  Friedrich  Muhlenberg,  Kammerer  and  Hof  be  the 
committee.  After  some  time  the  committee  reported  as  follows  :  "  That 
a  strict  investigation  shows  that  both  parties  acted  too  hastily,  and  that 
the  best  way  to  restore  peace  would  have  been  to  send  the  letters  of  both 
parties  to  the  President  of  the  Ministerium  ;  but  as  the  complainant, 
Mr.  Kesselring,  for  many  reasons  would  not  consent  to  this,  the  com- 
mittee could  do  nothing  more  than  exhort  very  earnestly  to  unity  and 
peace  which  both  parties  promised  to  establish  and  maintain ;  there- 
fore, the  committee  presents  the  following  motion  for  approval :  That 
both  parties  be  earnestly  and  fraternally  exhorted  to  unity  and  peace, 
and  that  beyond  this  the  Synodical  Meeting  have  nothing  to  do  with 
the  matter. 

This  motion  was  accepted. 

16.  Letters  from  Whitpain  were  read,  in  which  request  was  made  for 
a  preacher.  Resolved,  That  Candidate  Diel  may  accept  the  congregation 
if  they  give  him  a  call. 

17.  Since  the  Synodical  business  was  herewith  ended,  the  meeting  pro- 
ceeded to  the  election  of  its  officers  and  the  place  of  its  next  meeting. 
Pastor  Schmidt  was  chosen  President  and  Rev.  Muhlenberg  Secretary, 
and  Philadelphia  appointed  as  the  place  of  meeting. 

18.  In  the  evening  Dr.  Helmuth  preached  on  Heb.  10  :  32. 

Appendix  of  the  Transactions  of  the  Ministerium  in 
the  Ministerial  Meeting. 

It  was  Resolved  that  Licentiate  Mr.  Hinkle  and  Messrs.  Meier,  Riitz, 
Jaeger,  Schmucker  and  Bence  be  examined  in  writing,  and  advanced 
according  to  the  result  of  the  examination. 

While  these  gentlemen  withdrew  and  answered  the  questions  given 
them,  the  Ministerium  carried  on  some  theological  discussions. 


FORTY-FIFTH  CONVENTION,  1792.  247 

The  answers  were  handed  in  and  carefully  examined,  and  hereupon 
it  was 

1.  Unanimously  Resolved,  That  Mr.  Paul  Hinkel  be  ordained  this 
evening  (June  6)  at  public  service. 

2.  Unanimously  Resolved,  That  Mr.  Riitz  be  catechist  under  the 
supervision  of  the  preacher  in  Hanover,  in  the  Schuster's,  Suttler's, 
Bleimeier's  and  Frey's  churches. 

3.  Unanimously  Resolved,  That  Mr.  Jaeger  be  catechist  in  "Williams- 
town  and  Greenwich,  under  the  supervision  of  the  pastor  in  Goschen- 
hoppen. 

4.  Resolved,  That  Mr.  Schmucker  be  catechist  in  the  Quickel's 
Church,  under  the  supervision  of  the  preacher  in  Yorktown. 

5.  Resolved,  that  Mr.  Aug.  Friedrich  Meier  be  licensed  as  candidate 
for  Teilstown,  Rensellaer,  Veyk,  Helleuberg  and  Bieverdam,  in  New 
York  State. 

6.  Resolved,  That  Mr.  Peter  Bence  be  catechist  for  "Weiseichenland, 
Mount  joy,  Middletown  and  Harrisburg,  under  the  supervision  of  the 
pastor  in  Lancaster. 

After  the  close  of  the  ministerial  transactions  public  service  was 
again  held.  Mr.  Carpenter  preached  on  Ps.  32  :  1,  and  the  pastor 
loci  dismissed  the  assembly  with  benedictions. 

Last  of  all,  Mr.  Paul  Hinkel  was  ordained  by  the  President,  assisted 
by  Drs.  Helmuth  and  Muhlenberg. 
Id  quod  factum  testantur. 

Joh.  Friedrich  Schmidt, 

P.  t.  President. 

F.  H.  Christian  Helmuth, 

P.  t.  Secretary. 


CONSTITUTION   OF  1792. 

(Reprinted  in  1813  and,  with  many  Amendments,  in  1841.) 


MINISTERIAL    REGULATIONS   OF   THE   GERMAN    EVANGELICAL 

LUTHERAN  CONGREGATIONS  IN  PENNSYLVANIA 

AND  THE  ADJACENT  STATES. 

Chapter  I. — The  Name. 
We,  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  ministers  of  Pennsylvania  and  the 
adjacent  States,  who  acknowledge  one  another  as  one  Body,  by  the  sub- 
scription of  our  respective  names  to  these  ministerial  regulations, 
denominate  our  association  :  "  The  German  Evangelical  Lutheran 
Ministerium  in  Pennsylvania  and  Adjacent  States  ;"  and  our  conven- 
tion :  "  A  Ministerial  Meeting,"  and  our  convention  with  the  Delegates 
of  the  United  Congregations,  "  A  Synodical  Meeting." 

Chapter  II. — Of  the  Senior. 

1.  The  Ministerium  acknowledges  a  Senior,  a  dignity  granted  to  the 
oldest  and  most  meritorious  of  our  pastors  by  election  of  the  ordained 
ministers,  which  he  retains  for  life,  provided,  his  conduct  is  conform- 
able to  the  station,  which  he  holds.  The  election  is  by  ballot,  and 
without  nomination. 

2.  The  Ministerium  honors  the  Senior  as  a  father,  and  cheerfully  re- 
ceives his  advice,  admonition  and  reproof  in  all  cases,  wherein  his 
experience  may  prove  beneficial. 

Chapter  III. — Op  the  President. 

1.  The  President  of  the  Ministerium  is  also  President  of  the  Synodi- 
cal Meeting,  and  presides  in  the  sessions,  and  is  respected  as  an  over- 
seer [Aufseher],  both  during  the  sessions  and  at  other  times. 

2.  Ordained  ministers  solely  are  eligible  to  this  office.  He  is  an- 
nually elected  by  a  majority  of  votes  of  the  ordained  ministers,  licensed 
candidates,  and  the  delegates  of  the  congregations,  in  the  commence- 
ment of  the  session,  after  the  delegates  have  been  enrolled. 

3.  He  continues  in  office  until  his  successor  has  been  elected  at  the 
next  annual  Synodical  Meeting.  He  is  re-eligible  for  three  suc- 
cessive elections  only. 

248 


THE  CONSTITUTION  OF  1792.  249 

4.  lie  is  entitled  in  Synodical  and  Ministerial  Meetings  to  offer  reso- 
lutions and  to  express  his  opinion,  as  well  as  any  other  inemher. 

5.  When  the  votes  are  even,  he  has  the  casting  vote,  but  in  no  other 
case  has  he  a  vote,  except  in  elections  by  ballot,  but  in  that  case  he  has 
no  casting  vote. 

(!.  lie  nominates  the  committees  with  consent  of  Synod  ;  in  contested 
cases,  however,  each  party  may  choose  one  arbiter  and  the  President 
the  third. 

7.  He,  in  connection  with  the  Pastor  loci,  appoints  the  ministers  that 
are  to  officiate  during  the  session. 

8.  The  President  ordains  candidates  with  the  assistance  of  two  or 
more  ordained  ministers.  The  act  of  ordination  is  to  be  performed  in 
public  meeting,  whenever  possible,  but  no  candidate  can  be  ordained 
unless  two-thirds  of  the  ordained  ministers  present  consider  him  a  suit- 
able subject  for  ordination. 

9.  The  rule  concerning  ordination  applies  also  to  licenses.  The  Presi- 
dent can  grant  them  only  in  a  general  Ministerial  Meeting,  and  with 
the  consent  of  two-thirds  of  the  ordained  ministers. 

10.  He  appoints  the  committee  of  examination  of  candidates  and 
catechists,  although  each  member  is  at  liberty,  in  due  order,  to  examine 
candidates  still  further. 

1 1 .  He  is  to  admonish  an  erring  brother  several  times  in  private  ;  if 
this  admonition  prove  unavailing,  he  brings  the  case  before  the  meeting 
for  investigation  and  decision. 

12.  He  is  to  sign  and  deliver  the  resolutions  passed  in  Synod  to  the 
delegates  of  the  congregations. 

13.  It  is  his  duty  to  sign  all  ordination  certificates,  licenses,  &c,  and 
to  see  that  they  receive  the  seal  of  the  Ministerium,  and  that  they  are 
given  into  the  hands  of  those  persons  for  wThom  they  are  designed. 

14.  He  is  to  subscribe  the  proceedings  of  Synod  in  the  written  min- 
utes. 

15.  It  is  his  duty  to  see  that  soon  after  every  Synodical  or  Ministerial 
Me<  ling  all  the  instruments  of  writing  are  delivered  into  the  Archives. 

Chapter  IV. — Op  the  Secretary. 

1.  The  Secretary  of  the  Ministerium  is  also  Secretary  of  Synod  and 
is  elected  annually  at  the  same  time  and  in  the  same  manner,  as  well  as 
on  the  same  conditions  under  which  the  President  is  elected 

2.  Ordained  ministers  only  that  arc  suitable  and  experienced  can  be 
chosen  for  this  office. 

3.  It  is  his  duty  to  write  letters,  licenses,  certificates  of  ordination,  <S:c. 

4.  He  countersigns  the  ordination  certificates,  licenses,  resolutions  of 


250  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Synod  for  the  delegates  as  well  as  the  proceedings  of  Synod  in  the  writ- 
ten minutes. 

5.  It  is  his  duty  to  give  at  least  six  weeks'  previous  notice  in  one  or 
several  German  papers,  of  the  place  and  time  for  holding  a  Synodical 
Meeting. 

6.  He  is  to  keep  a  list  of  all  the  ordained  ministers,  licensed  candi- 
dates and  catechists,  with  place  of  their  residences  ;  and  of  the  respec- 
tive congregations  in  connection  with  the  Ministerium,  and  the  names 
of  the  ministers  serving  them. 

Chapter  V. — Of  the  Members  of  the  Ministerium. 

There  are  three  ranks  of  pastors  in  the  Ministerium,  viz  :  Ordained 
ministers,  licensed  candidates  and  catechists. 

Article  I. — Of  Ordained  Ministers. 

1.  All  ordained  ministers  are  equal  in  regard  to  rank  or  title,  except- 
ing the  officers  spoken  of  before ;  they  have  therefore,  in  their  congre- 
gations, no  other  superintendents  but  these  officers,  and  these  only  in  so 
far  as  this  Constitution  renders  it  incumbent  on  them,  to  impart  their 
views  and  advice  to  ministers. 

2.  No  minister  therefore  is  permitted  to  perform  ministerial  acts  or 
official  duties  in  the  congregations  of  another  pastor,  except  with  his 
consent. 

3  Every  pastor  may,  as  circumstances  require,  introduce  regulations 
in  the  churches  of  his  charge,  though  care  should  be  taken,  that  as  far 
as  possible  there  should  exist  a  pleasing  harmony  with  the  regulations 
in  the  other  churches. 

4.  The  minister  may  leave  his  congregation  and  take  the  charge  of 
others,  though  his  duty  requires  him  to  act  conscientiously  in  such  a 
case  as  before  God,  and  he  is  to  inform  the  President  of  the  change  as 
soon  as  possible. 

5.  "Whenever  important  questions  of  conscience  are  to  be  examined 
and  decided,  the  ordained  ministers  alone  are  to  be  entitled  to  a  vote  in 
the  case. 

6.  Every  ordained  minister  possessing  the  requisite  qualifications, 
time  and  opportunity,  has  the  right  and  liberty  to  take  under  their  in- 
struction young  men,  desirous  of  devoting  themselves  to  the  ministry, 
and  by  oral  instruction,  the  recommendation  of  good  books  and  practi- 
cal directions,  to  prepare  them  for  the  service  of  the  Lord,  and  when- 
ever a  student  so  instructed  has  obtained  a  systematic  knowledge  of  the 
doctrines  of  salvation,  the  gift  of  speaking,  an  unblemished  character 


TIIE  CONSTITUTION  OF  1792.  251 

and  evidences  of  experimental  religion,  his  instructor  may  permit  him 
to  preach. 

7.  When  a  regular  ordained  minister  desires  to  be  received  into  our 
connection,  the  vote  is  to  be  taken  in  a  general  Ministerial  Meeting,  but 
none  can  be  acknowledged  as  an  actual  member,  who  does  not  receive 
two-thirds  of  the  votes  of  the  ordained  ministers  present. 

8.  Ministers,  who  either  by  express  request  or  with  the  consent  of  their 
Ministerium  are  sent  to  this  country,  by  a  European  Institute,  such  as  the 
Orphan-house  of  Halle,  or  some  Evangelical  Consistory  or  Ministerium, 
cannot  be  rejected,  unless  the  objections  of  two-thirds  of  the  ordained 
ministers  present  are  important  and  established. 

Article  II. — Of  Licensed  Candidates. 

1.  A  licensed  candidate  is  confined  to  those  congregations  which 
have  been  confided  to  his  care  by  the  Ministerium. 

2.  Without  the  approval  of  the  Ministerium  or  its  officers  he  is  not 
permitted  to  leave  the  congregations  to  which  he  has  been  appointed,  or 
exchange  them  for  others.  He  is  likewise  prohibited  from  performing 
ministerial  duty  in  any  other  congregation,  except  if  requested  by  an 
ordained  minister  to  officiate  for  him. 

3.  He  is  to  preach  the  Word  of  God  in  its  purity  according  to  the 
law  and  the  gospel,  he  is  to  diligently  instruct  the  children,  to  visit  the 
schools  and  the  sick,  endeavor  to  increase  in  knowledge,  and  adorn  his 
office  by  a  Christian  walk  and  conversation. 

4.  He  performs  all  ministerial  acts  in  the  congregations  entrusted  to 
his  care,  during  the  term  of  his  license. 

5.  He  is  to  keep  a  journal  of  his  official  acts  and  to  submit  it  with 
several  fully  written  sermons  annually  to  the  inspection  of  the  Minis- 
terium, and  at  the  same  time  to  return  his  license  for  renewal. 

6.  It  is  his  duty  to  appear  annually  at  Synod,  in  which  he  has  seat 
and  vote,  and  likewise  attend  the  Ministerial  Meeting. 

7.  But  if  on  account  of  distance  or  any  other  important  cause  he 
should  not  be  able  to  attend  Synod,  it  is  his  duty,  with  a  written  excuse, 
to  send  his  journal,  the  sermons  and  his  license  to  the  Ministerium. 

Article  III. — Of  Catechists. 

1.  The  catechist  is  subject  to  the  general  superintendence  of  the  Min- 
isterium and  its  officers,  and  besides  this  to  the  particular  care  of  one  of 
the  neighboring  ordained  ministers,  who  is  to  be  named  as  such  in  the 
catechist's  license,  and  whom  he  has  to  respect  as  his  instructor  and 
father  ;  whose  directions  he  follows  in  continuing  to  serve  the  Lord,  and 


252  DOCUMENTAKY  HISTORY. 

the  extension  of  his  theological  knowledge,  and  whose  advice  he  seeks 
in  important  cases. 

2.  The  catechist  is,  however,  not  to  be  considered  an  adjunct  to  his 
instructor,  but  attends  to  the  congregations  assigned  him  ;  the  instructor 
is  therefore  not  permitted  to  send  him  arbitrarily  into  other  congrega- 
tions to  perform  official  duties  for  him,  but  it  is  the  instructor's  duty  to 
assist  the  catechist  entrusted  to  Mm  with  paternal  advice,  so  that  both 
may  perform  their  respective  offices  with  profit  to  the  congregations. 

3.  The  catechist  is  to  preach  the  Word  of  God  in  purity  to  the  con- 
gregations assigned  him  by  the  Ministerium,  catechise  the  young,  bap- 
tize, visit  the  schools  and  the  sick,  attend  funerals  and  instruct  the  con- 
firmands. 

4.  He  is  however  not  permitted  to  confirm  or  administer  the  Sacra- 
ment of  the  Lord's  Supper,  but  whenever  such  ministerial  acts  are  to 
be  performed  in  his  congregations,  he  has  to  request  his  instructor  some 
time  previously,  to  discharge  these  official  duties  for  him  ;  in  that  case 
the  instructor  appoints  a  day  for  that  purpose,  and  performs  these  min- 
isterial acts  either  personally,  or  requests  another  minister  in  connection 
with  the  Ministerium  to  do  it  for  him. 

5.  The  catechist  is  not  permitted  without  consent  of  the  Ministerium 
or  its  officers,  to  leave  the  congregations  entrusted  to  him,  and  to  per- 
form official  duties  in  other  congregations. 

6.  If  his  duty  permit  it,  he  may  keep  a  school,  if  there  is  no  teacher 
in  his  congregation. 

7.  It  is  his  duty  to  keep  a  journal  of  his  official  acts,  and  to  send  an- 
nually the  same,  with  two  catechetical  sermons  that  he  has  written,  for 
the  inspection  of  the  Ministerium  and  the  Ministerial  Session,  together 
with  his  license  for  renewal. 

8.  He  is  permitted  to  attend  the  annual  Synodical  Meetings,  but  has 
no  vote.  But  he  has  to  appear  before  the  Ministerial  Session,  if  distance 
of  location  and  other  important  circumstances  do  not  prevent  him. 

9.  If  he  cannot  appear  personally,  it  is  his  duty,  with  a  written  ex- 
cuse, to  send  his  journal,  sermons  and  license  to  the  Ministerium,  the 
latter  for  renewal. 

10.  No  one  is  to  be  admitted  as  catechist,  whose  walk  and  conversa- 
tion is  not  blameless  ;  he  must  be  at  least  twenty  years  of  age,  have 
acquired  a  systematic  knowledge  of  Christian  doctrines  and  ethics  ;  he 
ought  to  possess  some  knowledge  of  human  nature,  manifest  a  gift  of 
speaking,  and  above  all  things  a  practical  knowledge  of  experimental 
religion. 

11.  He  is  to  be  examined  by  the  Ministerium,  and  appointed  by  a 
license  to  the  office  of  a  catechist,  before  he  can  officiate  in  that  capacity. 


THE  CONSTITUTION  OF  1792.  253 

Chapter  VI. — Of  tue  Synodical  Meeting. 

1.  A  Synodical  Meeting  is  to  be  held  at  least  once  every  year.  Time 
and  place,  when  not  appointed  by  the  preceding  meeting,  are  to  be 
left  to  the  President. 

2.  The  regular  members  of  the  Synod  are  the  ordained  ministers,  the 
licensed  candidates  and  the  delegates  of  the  United  Congregations. 

3.  No  minister  is  permitted  to  absent  himself  from  the  Synodical 
Meetings,  unless  in  cases  of  urgent  necessity,  and  if  such  a  case  occurs, 
the  minister  absenting  himself  has  to  render  a  written  excuse  to  the 
body  ;  self-made  official  duties  made  for  such,  e.  g.,  preaching,  marry- 
ing, the  giving  of  catechetical  instruction,  confirming,  administering  the 
Lord's  Supper  and  the  like,  are  not  to  be  considered  as  cases  of  urgent 
necessity,  and  are  no  valid  excuse  for  non-attendance. 

4.  Whoever  does  not  appear  personally  at  the  Synodical  Meeting,  or 
render  a  written  excuse  for  his  absence,  shall  be  called  to  account  by 
the  President  at  the  next  Synodical  Meeting. 

5.  If  any  minister  neither  attends  the  meeting  of  Synod  nor  renders 
a  written  excuse  for  non-attendance  during  three  successive  sessions,  he 
is  to  be  considered  as  no  longer  a  member  of  the  Ministerium. 

6.  Letters  of  excuse  for  non-attendance,  as  well  as  all  other  instru- 
ments of  writing,  are  always  to  be  directed  to  the  President. 

7.  The  pastor  of  the  place,  where  the  Synod  is  to  meet,  and  the 
Church  Council  of  that  congregation,  are  to  provide  for  the  entertain- 
ment of  the  United  Ministers,  licensed  candidates  and  catechists  and 
their  horses  ;  those  who  cannot  be  assigned  are  to  be  entertained  at  the 
expense  of  the  congregation. 

8.  The  ministers  are  to  meet  at  the  place  of  session  one  day  previous 
thereto,  so  that  the  President  may  properly  assign  the  appointments  to 
preach,  and  no  member  is  justified  in  leaving  Synod  previous  to  its  close. 

9.  The  delegates  of  the  congregations  may  attend  all  the  meetings  of 
Synod,  but  not  all  are  entitled  to  a  vote  ;  those  delegates  only,  from 
congregations  served  by  ordained  ministers  or  licensed  candidates  pres- 
ent, are  so  entitled.  Delegates  from  congregations  served  by  catechists 
have  no  vote  at  Synod. 

10.  It  is  therefore  a  fixed  rule,  that  there  are  in  Synod  no  more  vot- 
ing delegates  than  there  are  ordained  ministers  and  licensed  candidates 
present ;  but  there  are  just  as  many  delegates  having  a  seat  and  voice, 
from  every  congregation,  as  there  are  ministers  in  actual  attendance  at 
the  SynodicaJ  Meeting. 

11.  Every  delegate  claiming  a  vote  has  to  produce  every  time  before 
Synod  and  President  a  certificate  of  election  from  his  minister,  elders 


254  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

and  deacons  ;  that  is,  from  the  Church  Council  of  that  congregation  or 
congregations  whom  he  is  to  represent. 

12.  The  delegates  entitled  to  vote  are  to  take  seats  apart  from  the 
rest ;  they  have  a  right  to  offer  resolutions,  give  their  opinions  and 
votes  in  all  cases,  that  are  to  be  decided  ;  except  in  the  case  of  a  ques- 
tion of  learning,  orthodoxy  or  heterodoxy  of  a  candidate  or  catechist ; 
his  reception  into  or  exclusion  from  the  Ministerium,  or  similar  cases, 
which  the  Ministerial  Session  alone  has  to  decide. 

13.  Every  congregation  that  is  served  only  by  an  ordained  minister 
or  a  licensed  candidate  in  connection  with  Synod,  and  every  group  of 
congregations,  who  unitedly  enjoy  the  services  of  such  a  pastor,  are  en- 
titled to  one  delegate  to  Synod  ;  his  expenses  are  to  be  borne  by  the 
congregation,  and  at  the  place  of  meeting  each  delegate  has  to  provide 
for  his  board  and  lodging ;  it  is,  however,  left  optional  with  each  con- 
gregation whether  to  send  a  delegate  or  not  to  every  meeting. 

14.  As  therefore  the  United  Congregations  are  represented  in  Synod 
by  their  respective  delegates,  and  are  entitled  to  seat  and  vote  in  that 
body,  it  is  their  duty  cheerfully  to  obey  the  regulations  and  resolutions 
of  Synod  and  the  Ministerium. 

15.  On  Sunday  three  sermons  are  to  be  preached  in  the  place  where 
Synod  is  to  convene,  and  divine  service  is  to  be  held  every  evening,  but 
if  Synod  meets  in  the  country,  the  evening  services  are  omitted,  and  in- 
stead thereof  a  sermon  is  to  be  preached  on  Monday  at  9  o'clock,  A.M., 
provided  the  state  of  business  permit  it ;  and  in  that  case  the  Synod 
meets  immediately  after  divine  service.  After  the  service  the  pastor 
loci  announces  where  the  meeting  is  to  be  held. 

16.  Every  session  of  Synod  commences  at  9  o'clock,  a.m.,  and  con- 
continues  to  1  o'clock,  p.m.,  and  in  the  afternoon  Synod  meets  at  3 
o'clock  and  closes  its  session  at  6 ;  unless  important  business  should  re- 
quire more  protracted  sessions. 

17.  It  is  the  duty  of  the  President  to  begin  the  business  precisely  at 
ten  minutes  after  9  o'clock,  a.m,  and  in  the  afternoon  precisely  at  ten 
minutes  past  3  o'clock  ;  even  though  but  three  ordained  members  besides 
himself  should  be  present. 

18.  If  the  President  should  be  detained,  and  at  least  five  ordained 
ministers  be  present,  they  elect  a  President  pro  tern,  and  commence 
business  ;  and  whatever  shall  have  been  transacted  and  resolved  in  such 
a  meeting,  shall  be  considered  as  valid  as  if  it  had  been  transacted  by 
the  whole  body. 

19.  In  the  absence  of  the  Secretary,  the  President  appoints  one  pro 
tern. 

20.  If  a  member  of  Synod  delay  coming  until  after  a  full  hour,  the 


THE  CONSTITUTION  OF  1792.  255 

President  is  to  call  him  to  account  and  to  reprimand  him  in  case  of  in- 
sufficient excuse.  From  this  regulation  the  pastor  loci  is,  however, 
exempt. 

21.  The  order  of  Synodical  business  is  as  follows  : 

a.  The  first  session  of  Synod  is  opened  with  prayer  by  the  President 
or  Senior ;  if  they  are  absent,  by  the  Secretary  or  one  of  the  elder  min- 
isters. 

b.  After  prayer  the  Secretary  records  the  names  of  the  ministers, 
licensed  candidates  and  catechists  present,  together  with  the  place  of 
their  residence. 

c.  The  delegates  claiming  seat  and  vote  are  now  called  upon  for  their 
certificates  of  election ;  these  being  found  in  order,  their  names  and  the 
congregations  which  they  represent,  are  registered. 

d.  Afterwards  the  President  or  his  substitute  announces  to  Synod 
that  the  tenn  for  which  the  President  and  Secretary  have  been  elected, 
has  expired,  and  orders  that  the  ministers,  licensed  candidates  and  dele- 
gates, entitled  to  a  vote,  are  to  elect  a  President  and  Secretary  by  ballot 
and  appoints  two  superintendents  of  the  election. 

e.  After  election  the  delegates  and  other  members  present  their  docu- 
ments to  the  President,  or  make  a  verbal  declaration  respecting  the 
business  they  wish  to  bring  before  Synod. 

/  The  Secretary  takes  a  record  of  the  different  items  in  the  order  in 
which  they  are  presented,  and  these  documents  are  numbered  in  the 
order  in  which  they  have  been  entered  into  the  minutes. 

g.  The  letters  of  excuse  of  absent  members  are  read,  and  it  is  the 
duty  of  the  Secretary  to  notice  all  the  absentees  in  the  minutes,  whether 
they  are  excused  or  not. 

h.  The  minutes  of  the  last  Synod  are  read. 

i.  The  President  lays  before  Synod  all  the  transactions  at  special 
meetings,  and  also  all  letters  which  he  has  received  and  which  have  ref- 
erence to  congregational  matters. 

j.  In  the  transaction  of  business  Synod  considers  first  the  concerns 
of  distant  congregations  and  delegates,  and  those  of  nearer  congrega- 
tions hut. 

k.  Every  minister  is  to  make  an  oral  or  written  report  to  Synod  of 
the  nanus  of  the  congregations  which  he  serves,  the  number  of  the  bap- 
tized, confirmed,  communicants  and  deaths  in  each  congregation,  and 
lastly  of  the  state  of  the  schools. 

22.  When  members  of  Synod  or  delegates  have  to  make  a  communi- 
cation to  the  President  alone,  they  are  not  permitted  to  call  him  out  of 
the  chair  for  that  purpose,  but  are  to  wait  until  the  session  has  ad- 
journed. 


256  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

23.  It  is  the  business  of  the  President  to  see  that  everything  be  in 
order ;  that  not  two  or  more  attempt  to  speak  at  the  same  time,  and 
that  the  right  of  each  member  of  Synod  to  speak  his  opinion  freely  with- 
out interruption,  be  maintained,  unless  the  speaker  is  out  of  order,  when 
it  is  the  President's  duty  to  call  him  to  order. 

24.  It  is  the  duty  of  the  President  to  take  special  care  that  every 
point  brought  before  the  house  in  constitutional  order  be  duly  consid- 
ered and  fully  discussed,  and  also  that  every  regular  motion  made  and 
seconded,  and  upon  which  no  one  has  anything  further  to  say,  be 
plainly  repeated  and  the  votes  taken. 

25.  The  votes  are  to  be  given  by  simply  saying  Aye  or  JVb,  without 
any  remarks. 

26.  When  the  press  of  business  requires  it,  the  President  may  ap- 
point one  or  more  additional  assistant  Secretaries,  whose  office,  how- 
ever, is  to  cease  with  the  session. 

27.  All  the  business  being  transacted,  the  Synod  enters  into  an  elec- 
tion by  ballot  for  the  time  and  place,  where  and  when  the  next  meeting 
is  to  be  held.     A  majority  of  the  votes  is  decisive. 

28.  Each  session  of  Synod  is  to  be  commenced  and  closed  with 
prayer,  by  appointment  of  the  President. 

29.  The  last  session  of  Synod  is  to  be  closed  by  the  Senior  or  Presi- 
dent. 

Note. — Before  the  Synod  adjourns,  the  President  states  the  time  and  place  of 
the  next  meeting. 

Chapter  VII. — Of  the  Ministerial  Meeting. 

1.  After  the  transaction  of  all  Synodical  business,  the  Ministerium 
holds  a  meeting  for  a  half  or  an  entire  day. 

2.  This  meeting  is  to  be  considered  by  the  ministers,  candidates  and 
catechists  as  the  most  important,  and  no  one  is  to  absent  himself,  ex- 
cept for  the  most  urgent  necessity. 

3.  The  Ministerium  meets  precisely  at  the  appointed  time,  and  the 
President  introduces  the  sacred  duties  of  this  meeting  by  prayer,  or  has 
the  Senior  to  do  so.  Here  is  likewise  to  be  observed  what  has  been 
stated  in  Chapter  VI,  §  16-20,  in  these  ministerial  regulations. 

4.  If  candidates  are  to  be  licensed  or  ordained,  or  if  catechists  are  to 
receive  license  as  candidates,  or  if  students  are  to  be  appointed  as  cate- 
chists or  as  candidates,  first  of  all  they  are  to  undergo  an  examination 
respecting  their  doctrine  and  life. 

5.  The  President  asks  all  the  licensed  candidates  and  catechists  to 
hand  in  their  journals,  sermons  and  licenses  and  divides  the  ordained 
ministers  into  committees,  to  examine  the  journals  and  sermons,  and 


THE  CONSTITUTION  OF  1792.  257 

have  them  read  by  the  candidates  and  catechists,  accompanied  by  their 
comments,  for  the  improvement  of  the  understanding  and  heart  of  the 
composers  ;  he  also  appoints  the  hour  to  report  thereon  to  the  Minis- 
terium. 

6.  After  examination  of  candidates  the  licensed  candidates  and  cate- 
chists withdraw  from  the  Ministerium  ;  the  committees  report  and  the 
Ministerium  decides  upon  the  reports  and  the  issue  of  the  examination. 
a.  Who  of  the  candidates  are  to  be  ordained,  and  when  and  where  ?  b. 
Whose  license  is  to  be  renewed  ?  c.  Who  are  to  receive  license  ?  d. 
What  catechists  shall  receive  the  license  of  candidates  ?  e.  What  cate- 
chists are  to  be  continued  as  such?  /.  What  new  catechists  are  to 
be  appointed  and  what  ordained  ministers  are  to  be  their  instructors 
and  advisers  ?  g.  The  President  then  orders  the  ordination  certificates 
and  licenses  to  be  prepared  before  the  Ministerium  does  anything  else, 
in  order  to  publicly  hand  them  to  the  persons  designated. 

7.  This  being  done,  the  candidates  and  catechists  are  again  called 
before  the  Ministerium,  and  the  President  announces — a.  to  the  candi- 
date- for  ordination,  the  time  and  place  of  ordination,  b.  He  solemnly 
informs  the  licensed  candidates  of  their  duties  according  to  this  Consti- 
tution, c.  He  receives  from  the  candidates  the  solemn  assurance  by 
word  of  mouth  and  the  giving  of  their  hands  as  in  the  presence  of  God, 
that  they  will  faithfully  perforin  the  duties  prescribed  to  them.  d.  He 
delivers  the  license  to  each  individual,  e.  In  the  same  manner  he  pro- 
ceeds with  the  catechists.  /.  Finally  he  presents  to  every  newly  re- 
ceived minister,  candidate  or  catechist  a  copy  of  our  liturgy,  provided 
he  have  none. 

Note. — The  Ministerium  may  also,  according  to  the  circumstances  of  time  and 

decide  that  \  7,  Nos.  2-5,  concerning  licensed  candidates  and  catechists,  may 

he  provided  for  in  the  church  of  the  place,  where  the  meeting  is  held,  especially 

if  at  the  same  time  candidates  are  to  be  ordained,  as  it  would  not  be  inappropriate, 

that,  after  the  act,  they  should  receive  the  Holy  Supper. 

8.  The  Ministerium  uses  its  own  seal  for  the  confirmation  of  all  min- 
isterial documents,  certificates  of  ordination,  licenses,  etc. 

9.  All  these  acts  of  the  Ministerium  are  to  be  arranged,  that  at  least 
two  hours  be  spent  in  the  following  exercises,  in  which  all  the  pastors 
of  the  three  orders  of  the  Ministerium  shall  participate:  a.  For  mutual 
edification,  b.  For  imparting  to  each  other  their  experiences  in  the 
discharge  of  official  duties,  c.  For  engaging  in  the  consideration  of 
sin  h  I » i  1 1 1  e  truths  as  the  circumstances  and  wants  of  the  church  seem 
to  require,  in  order  to  be  advanced  in  knowledge,  encouraged  in  faith- 
fulness and  strengthened  in  faith. 

17 


258  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

10.  The  distribution  of  such  funds  as  are  at  hand  is  one  of  the  last 
acts  of  the  Ministerium. 

11.  The  meeting  is  finally  closed  by  prayer  of  the  President  or  Senior. 

Chapter  VIII. — Of  the  Archives  of  the  Ministerium. 

1.  The  Archives  of  the  Ministerium  are  to  be  kept  with  care  and  not 
to  be  transported  without  sufficient  cause  from  place  to  place. 

2.  All  the  letters,  petitions,  complaints  directed  to  Synod  or  the  Min- 
isterium, all  the  answers,  advices,  testimonials,  etc.,  of  Synodical  and 
Ministerial  Meetings  are  to  be  carefully  preserved  in  them. 

3.  The  written  documents  of  each  meeting  are  to  be  bound  together 
in  suitable  form,  and  on  the  outside  of  each  such  package  the  number  of 
the  year  is  to  be  carefully  noted. 

4.  The  pastor  of  the  place  where  the  Archives  are  kept  is  superin- 
tendent over  it,  is  bound  to  keep  it  in  order  and  to  render  an  account 
of  the  same  when  required. 

5.  Without  consent  of  Synod  or  the  Ministerium  or  its  officers,  the 
superintendent  of  the  Archives  is  not  permitted  to  loan  out  any  docu- 
ment, much  less  to  alienate  or  destroy  it. 

Description  of  the  Seal  of  the  Ministerium. 
The  seal  of  the  Ministerium  shows  a  vineyard,  wherein  some  vines 
stand  erect,  while  still  others  are  prostrate.  At  the  side  a  hand  comes 
forth  from  the  clouds  with  a  knife  and  cuts  down  the  erect  vines  ;  while 
on  the  other  side  another  hand  from  the  clouds  erects  the  vines  that  are 
prostrate.  Over  the  vineyard  shines  the  sun  in  the  clear  heaven,  whose 
meridian  is  not  yet  reached.  The  inscription  is  :  sigil.  minist.  Ger- 
man  LUTH.   IN   PENNSYLV.    ET    STAT.   VICIN. 

Chapter  IX. — Of  Special  or  District  Meetings. 

1.  Special  meetings  are  to  be  held  by  pastors  of  the  Ministerium, 
living  contiguous  to  each  other,  as  often  as  circumstances  may  require, 
and  each  congregation  under  the  care  of  such  minister  may  send  a  dele- 
gate to  said  meeting,  having  seat  and  vote. 

2.  A  Chairman  and  Secretary  are  to  be  elected  by  said  meeting,  who 
are  to  attest  the  minutes  and  copies  of  the  regulations.  Their  office 
ceases  with  the  close  of  the  meeting. 

3.  The  objects  of  such  meetings  are  to  promote  the  welfare  of  the  re- 
spective congregations  and  of  the  German  schools  within  the  District ; 
to  examine,  decide  and  determine  the  business  and  occurrences  in  their 
congregations  that  are  brought  before  them  ;  provided,  however,  that 
each  party  enjoys  the  right  of  appeal  to  Synod  and  Ministerium  from 
the  decision  of  the  conference. 


THE  CONSTITUTION  OF  1792.  259 

4.  A  special  meeting  is  not  permitted  under  any  pretence  whatever 
to  enter  upon  business  belonging  to  the  Ministerium,  as  set  forth  in 
Chapter  III,  §  8  and  §  9,  and  in  Chapter  VII,  from  §  4  to  §  8,  even  if 
tlic  odicers  of  Synod  were  present.  But  the  matters  designated  in  Chap- 
tor  VII,  §  9,  should  be  prominent  subjects  of  deliberations  for  these  spe- 
cial meetings. 

5  The  acts  of  the  meeting  are  to  be  transmitted  by  the  chairman  to 
the  President  of  the  Ministerium,  to  be  laid  by  him  before  the  next 
Synodical  or  Ministerial  Meeting. 

Additional  Articles  to  this  Regulation  of  the  Ministerium. 
To  Chapter  V. — Article  I. 
§  9.  If  an  ordained  member  of  the  Ministerium  removes  from  us  and 
enters  into  connection  with  another  Evangelical  Lutheran  Ministerium 
in  the  United  States,  which  is  acknowledged  by  us  as  such,  said  minis- 
ter shall  still  be  entitled  to  seat  and  vote  in  this  Ministerium  ;  provided 
he  acts  in  conformity  to  this  ministerial  order,  in  as  far  as  this  is  com- 
patible with  the  duties  he  owes  the  Synod  with  which  he  has  connected 
himself. 

To  Chapter  V. — Article  III. 

The  President  and  Secretary  of  the  Ministerium  and  Synod  may 
grant  to  a  candidate  of  Theology  a  license  to  perform  such  actus  minis- 
teriales  and  duties  as  are  permitted  to  catechists  to  discharge  ;  provided 
that  said  candidate  produce  unexceptionable  testimonials,  be  desired  by 
vacant  congregations  and  have  passed  a  satisfactory  examination.  Such 
license,  however,  is  only  valid  to  the  next  Ministerial  Meeting,  and  re- 
quires no  certificate ;  but,  nevertheless,  it  should,  like  all  promotions 
granted  by  the  President  and  Secretary,  according  to  this  order,  be 
committed  to  writing. 

To  Chapter  VII. 

§  1 2.  If  any  Evangelical  Lutheran  Ministerium  in  the  United  States, 
which  has  been  acknowledged  by  us  as  such,  but  whose  members  do  not 
otherwise  stand  in  any  close  connection  with  us,  should  send  a  delegate 
to  our  annual  meeting,  said  delegate  shall  be  entitled  to  seat  and  vote 
in  our  sessions  as  a  regular  member  ;  provided,  however,  that  said  Min- 
isterium grants  us  ecpjal  rights  and  privileges. 

To  Chapter  VIII. 

§  6.  Every  member  of  the  Ministerium,  as  well  as  every  delegate  of 
a  congregation  in  connection  with  our  body,  shall  have  free  access  to 
the  Archives,  under  the  direction  of  the  superintendent. 


FORTY- SIXTH  CONVENTION. 

1793. 


On  Trinity  Sunday  a  majority  of  the  members  of  the  Evangelical 
Lutheran  Ministerium  of  Pennsylvania  and  the  adjacent  States,  together 
with  delegates,  arrived  in  Philadelphia,  and  attended  public  worship  in 
both  the  Lutheran  churches. 

In  Zion's  church  Dr.  Kunze  preached  in  the  morning  on  I  Pet.  5  :  1 
sq. ;  in  the  afternoon,  Muhlenberg,  on  Ezech.  33  ;  10, 11 ;  in  the  even- 
ing, Kev.  Mr.  Gering,  on  Phil.  2:  12,  13.  In  St.  Michael's  there 
preached  Rev.  Mr.  Daniel  Kurz,  Rev.  Mr.  Moller,  Rev.  Mr.  David 
Jung.  < 

May  27th,  a.m. 

In  the  forenoon,  at  9  o'clock,  the  Synodical  Meeting  was  opened  in 
Zion's  church,  and,  after  prayer,  a  list  of  the  members  present  was 
prepared,  as  follows : 

Of  preachers,  there  were  present : 

1.  Mr.  Emanuel  Schulze,  from  Tulpehocken. 

2.  "  Henrich  Helmuth,  from  Philadelphia. 

3.  "  Friedrich  Schmidt,  from  Philadelphia. 

4.  "  Christoph  Kunze,  from  New  York. 

5.  "  Henrich  Muhlenberg,  from  Lancaster. 

6.  "  Friedrich  Wildbahn,  from  Reading. 

7.  "  Jacob  Buskirk,  from  Guinned  Township. 

8.  "  Conrad  Roller,  from  Indianfield. 

9.  "  Jacob  Gering,  from  Yorktown. 

10.  "  Daniel  Lehman,  from  Misillum. 

11.  "  Heinrich  Moller,  from  New  Holland. 

12.  "  Friedrich  Weinland,  from  New  Hanover. 

13.  "  Daniel  Kurz,  from  Baltimore. 

14.  "  Friedrich  Schafer,  from  Germantown. 

15.  "  David  Jung,  from  Martinsburg. 

16.  "  Wilhelm  Carpenter,  from  Culpepper. 

17.  "  Paul  Hinkel,  from  Shenandoah  County. 
260 


FORTY-SIXTH   CONVENTION,   1793.  261 

LICENSED   CANDIDATES. 

1.  "  Caspar  Dill,  from  Whitehall  township. 

2.  "  Joseph  "Wichterman,  from  Allentownship. 

3.  "  Giinther  Wiegand,  from  Dannitown. 

4.  "  Christian  Espich,  from  Goschenhoppen. 

VOTING   DELEGATES. 

1 .  From  Philadelphia,  Messrs.  Friedrich  Muhlenberg x  and  Henry 
Kiimmerer. 

2.  From  Lancaster,  Messrs.  Bernhard  Hubley  and  Georg  Hoff. 

3.  From  Reading,  Peter  Filbert. 

4.  From  Germautown,  Christian  Schneider. 

5.  From  Culpepper,  Ludwig  Weinland. 

6.  From  Shanandoa,  Johannes  Roller. 

7.  From  Whitehall,  Michael  Deibert. 

8.  From  Allentownship,  Valentin  Waldman. 

9.  From  New  Hanover,  Henrich  Gilbert. 

Hereupon  the  officers  for  this  year  were  elected  ;  a  majority  of  votes 
appointed  Rev.  Mr.  Emanuel  Schulze  President,  and  Preacher  Muhlen- 
berg, Secretary. 

The  newly  elected  President  had  handed  to  him  the  various  communi- 
cations, of  which  there  were  some  twenty,  and  then  began  the  real 
business,  as  follows : 

1.  The  Protocol  of  last  year  was  read,  and  signed  by  the  former  officers. 

2.  A  letter  from  Rev.  Mr.  Christian  Streit  was  read,  in  which  he 
excused  his  absence  with  satisfactory  reasons,  and  gave  a  pleasing  report 
of  a  Special  Conference  held  in  Virginia,  the  Protocol  of  which  was 
referred  to  the  Ministerial  Meeting. 

3.  Candidate  Liitge  excused  his  absence  and  recommended  a  man, 
Mr.  Carl  Stock.     His  excuse  was  not  quite  satisfactory  to  the  meeting. 

4.  Pastor  Voigt  likewise  excused  his  absence,  and  expressed  the  desire 
to  be  excused  from  attendance  in  the  future. 

His  excuse  was  accepted  for  this  time,  but  he  shall  be  informed  in 
writing  that  the  meeting  desires  his  presence  as  often  as  his  strength  and 
circumstances  allow. 

5.  The  names  of  the  absent  preachers  were  noted,  viz.,  as  follows : 
Mr.  Nicolaus  Kurz  sent  a  letter  of  excuse  ;  Wilhelm  Kurz,  Andreas 

Krug,  Ludwig  Voigt,  Christian  Streit,  and  Valentin  Melsheimer  were 
excused  ;  Johan  Georg  Jung  died  this  year  ;  Daniel  Schroter,  Friedrich 
Ernst,  Samuel  Schwerdfeger  and  Candidate  Enderlein  were  not  excused ; 
Liitge  excused  ;  Meyer  not  excused. 

['  Speaker  of  U.  S.  House  of  Representatives,  1789-91;  93-97.] 


262  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

6.  Letters  from  Friedrichstown  were  read ;  one  also  from  Senior  Kurz, 
who  is  staying  there  for  a  time.  No  agreement  has  yet  been  reached. 
Hereupon  a  committee  of  five  was  appointed,  again  to  investigate  the 
matter,  and  to  propose  some  action  in  reference  to  it.  This  committee 
consisted  of  the  following  gentlemen :  Friedrich  Muhlenberg,  Henrich 
Kiimmerer,  Georg  Hoff,  Pastor  Wildbahn,  Pastor  Gering. 

May  27th,  p.m. 

7.  A  good  testimonial  for  Eev.  Mr.  Weinland  from  the  congrega- 
tions at  New  Hanover  and  Providence  was  read.  This  had  reference 
to  a  complaint  against  him,  which  one  man  had  prepared  and  sent  to 
the  Ministerium.  This  complaint  was  referred  to  the  Ministerial 
Meeting. 

8.  Letters  from  Lebanon,  the  Bergkirche  and  Manheim  were  read, 
in  which  request  was  made  for  a  preacher.     It  was 

Resolved,  That  Candidate  Dill  shall  visit  the  congregations,  and  that 
he  be  proposed  to  them  as  their  preacher. 

9.  Request  was  made  by  several  congregations,  that  Catechist  Jager 
be  granted  permission  to  preach  in  a  new  congregation  in  William 
Township,  and  that  he  receive  a  full  license. 

The  first  point  was  granted,  and  the  second  referred  to  the  Ministerial 
Meeting. 

10.  Letters  from  Hagerstown  and  neighboring  congregations  asked 
for  Catechist  Schmucker,  and  letters  from  Quickel  and  Wolf's  congre- 
gation requested  that  he  be  allowed  to  stay  with  them,  and  receive  ordi- 
nation. The  latter  was  referred  to  the  Ministerial  Session ;  and  as  to 
the  rest  it  was  resolved,  that  Mr.  Schmucker  remain  in  his  former  con- 
gregations another  year,  but  in  connection  with  Rev.  Mr.  Goering  and 
Daniel  Kurz,  he  shall  visit  the  Hagerstown  congregation  until  they  sup- 
ply themselves  with  a  preacher. 

11.  The  committee  appointed  sub.  num.  6  brought  in  a  report,  which 
was  read,  and  finally,  after  various  changes  was  accepted,  as  follows : 

Resolved,  That  the  members  of  the  congregation  who  are  not  in  favor 
of  Rev.  Mr.  Krug,  be  advised  to  seek  another  preacher  from  the  Min- 
isterium, to  serve  them  and  the  neighboring  congregations,  and  that,  to 
this  end,  Candidate  Wichterman  be  proposed  to  them.  He  or  whoever 
may  be  called  thither  is  earnestly  admonished  to  live  as  much  as  pos- 
sible in  unity  and  love  with  Pastor  Krug. 

Resolved,  That  the  said  members  of  the  congregation,  as  soon  as  they 
agree  on  a  second  preacher,  send  him  a  call,  and  provide  for  his  neces- 
sary support. 

Resolved,  That  both  parties  be  earnestly  recommended  to  take  the 


FORTY-SIXTH  CONVENTION,  1793. 


263 


best  care,  that  the  church  be  used  by  both  parties  alternately  aud  undis- 
turbed in  their  worship,  and  that  schools  and  burial  grounds  be  in  com- 
mon. 

In  the  evening  Rev.  Mr.  Schiifer  preached  on  II  Tim.  2 :  11,  ff. 

May  28th,  a.m. 

12.  Various  additions  to  the  Ministerial  Order  were  proposed  and 
accepted,  and  it  was  resolved,  that  they  be  printed  as  an  appendix. 

13.  It  was  resolved  that  each  preacher  hand  in  the  names  of  his  con- 
gregations and  a  list  of  the  common  schools  and  of  the  baptized,  con- 
firmed, communicants  and  buried. 

Mr.  Emanuel  Schulze  serves  the  congregations  in  Tulpehocken 
Atolhen,  Heidelberg,  Berne,  Schiifersstadt  and  Warwick. 


Dr.  Helmuth, 
Pastor  Schmidt, 
Dr.  Kunze, 
Pastor  Muhlenberg, 
Mr.  Wildbahn, 

Mr.  Roller, 


Mr.  Gering, 


Mr.  Lehman, 


Mr.  Moller, 

Mr.  Weinland, 
Mr.  Daniel  Kurz, 
Mr.  Friedr.  Schafer, 


Philadelphia, 

Philadelphia, 

New  York, 

Lancaster, 

Reading, 

Altgo, 

Schehoppen, 

Indianfield, 

Tohickon, 

Yorktown, 

Tschochaly, 

Creutzkriek, 

Misullum, 

Rockland , 

Kutztown, 

"Windsor, 

Hamburg, 

Bern, 

Brameschweig, 

2.  Albania, 

Greenwich, 

New  Holland, 

Bergstrasse, 

Muddy  krick, 

Allegheny, 

Strasburg, 

New  Hanover, 

Providence, 

Pal  ti  more, 

Germantown, 

Barren  Hill, 


Bap- 

Con- 

Commu- 

Bur- 

Schools, tized. 

firmed 

nicants. 

ied. 

7      223 

74 

813 

45 

3      445 

117 

1183 

203 

1        89 

22 



62 

1      148 

69 

723 

47 

1 

148 


58 


84 
90 


38 


313 
250 


3G 


264 


DOCUMENTAEY  HISTOEY. 


Bap-    Con-  Commu-  Bur- 
Schools,  tized.  firmed,  uicauts.  ied. 


David  Jung  in 

Virginia, 


Martinsburg, 

Scheppardstown, 

Winchester, 

Neustadt, 

Staufferstadt, 

Steinskirche, 


Mr.Wilhelm  Carpenter,     Culpepper, 

Swiftneugap, 
Mr.  Paul  Hinkel  in 
Virginia, 


192 


112 


Macunshy, 
Ober-Milford, 
Obersaccon, 
Salisburg, 
Jordan, 
Earltownsliip, 
Wissenburg, 
Allentown, 
Downingtown, 
Winterskirche, 
Zion, 
Mr.  Giinther  Wiegand,     Ober  Bermudien, 
Thomas, 


Mr.  Jacobus  Buskirk 

Mr.  Caspar  Dill, 
Mr.  Wichterman, 


232 


76       378 


90       900 


25 


11 


j-       2      236      123 


Mr.  Espich, 

Mr.  Jager, 
Mr.  Sch  mucker, 


Jacobs'  Kirche, 

|  New  Goshenhoppen,  -v 

Lower  Milford,  J 

Williams  Township,  ] 


101 


17 


Mr.  Butz, 


Mr.  Peter  Benz, 


34        53 


33        48 


18 


123 


383 


127 


18 


11 


42 


14 


15 


97        15 


Greenwich, 

Molltown, 

Hardwick, 

Quickelskirche, 

Schusters, 

Bleimeiers, 

Freys, 

Sattlers, 

Stahleys  K. 

Weiseichen, 

Bupho, 

Middeltown, 

14.  It  was  resolved  that  each,  congregation  have  its  own  church  record, 
and  that  it  be  kept  by  the  teacher  of  the  congregation. 

15.  Resolved,  That  the  two  preachers  in  Philadelphia  have  a  box 
prepared  at  the  expense  of  the  Synodical  Meeting,  in  which  to  preserve 
the  Archives  of  the  Synodical  Ministerial  Meeting,  and  that  each  of  the 
"United  Preachers  have  free  access  to  it,  under  the  supervision  of  the 
warden. 


FORTY-SIXTH   CONVENTION,   1793.  265 

16.  Finally,  by  a  majority  of  votes,  Reading  was  appointed  as  the 
place  for  the  next  Synodieal  Meeting  on  Trinity  Sunday,  1794,  and 
herewith  the  Synodieal  Meeting  was  closed. 

May  28th,  p.m. 

In  the  afternoon  at  3  o'clock  the  preachers  assembled  in  the  school- 
house,  and  after  devout  prayer,  held  their  Ministerial  Session. 

1.  The  papers  of  candidates  and  catechists  were  handed  in  accord- 
ing to  the  Ministerial  Order. 

Candidate  Dill  handed  in  a  sermon  and  favorable  testimonials,  Can- 
didate Espich  handed  in  no  papers,  Candidate  Wichterman  handed 
in  three  sermons,  his  license,  a  short  diary  and  favorable  testimonials  ; 
Candidate  Wiegand,  one  sermon  and  his  license ;  Candidates  Ender- 
lein,  Liitge  and  Meier  were  not  present  and  had  not  sent  in  any  sermon 
or  diary. 

2.  The  catechists  were  called  up,  and 

1.  Mr.  Jaeger  handed  in  two  sermons,  his  diary,  license  and  testi- 
monials ;  2.  Mr.  Schmucker,  two  sermons,  his  diary,  license  and  testi- 
monials ;  3.  Mr.  Riitz,  three  sermons,  his  diary,  license  and  testimonials  ; 
4.  Mr.  Benz,  two  sermons,  his  diary  and  testimonials,  the  license  he  had 
forgotten. 

3.  A  candidate  from  Germany,  Mr.  Georg  Friedrich  Ellisen,  ap- 
plied for  admission  into  the  Ministerium  and  was  highly  recom- 
mended by  various  preachers  who  had  become  acquainted  with  him. 

4.  A  certain  Johannes  Stauch  handed  in  a  petition  from  Virginia 
asking  for  his  admission.  Several  congregations  are  in  that  region 
without  a  preacher,  the  nearest  being  one  hundred  and  fifty  miles  from 
an  ordained  preacher. 

5.  Three  committees  were  appointed  : 

a.  To  read  over  the  papers  of  the  licensed  candidates  :  Dr.  Helmuth, 
Revs.  Gering,  Daniel  Kurz  and  Schafer. 

b.  To  read  over  the  papers  of  the  catechists  : 
Rev.  Wildbahn,  Roller,  Weinland,  Jung. 

c.  To  examine  the  two  candidates  not  yet  received,  and  to  look  over 
some  petitions  from  distant  candidates  : 

Dr.  Kuntze,  Revs.  Schulze  and  Moller. 

6.  On  motion  of  Dr.  Kuntze  that  the  article  against  Rev.  Mr.  Ernst, 
which  had  appeared  some  time  ago  in  the  Reading  newspaper  be  refuted, 
it  was  resolved  that  the  refutation  printed  some  time  afterward  be  re- 
garded as  sufficient  and  be  approved  by  the  Ministerium. 

In  the  evening  Catechist  Jiiger  preached. 


266  DOCUMENTAKY  HISTORY. 

May  29th,  a.m. 

7.  The  various  reports  of  the  committees  were  handed  in,  and  with 
reference  to  the  licensed  candidates,  it  was 

Resolved,   a.  To  renew  Mr.  Dill's  license. 

b.  That  the  President  and  Secretary  be  authorized  to  renew  Mr. 
Espich's  license,  if  they  saw  fit. 

c.  Mr.  Wichterman's  license  shall  be  renewed. 

d.  Also  Mr.  Wiegand's  license  shall  be  renewed. 

8.  Concerning  the  absent  candidates  who  formerly  had  licenses,  ques- 
tions were  asked  : 

a.  Whether  Mr.  Enderlein  was  still  regarded  as  a  licensed  candi- 
date ?     Answer :  Yes. 

b.  Whether  Mr.  Meier  is  in  Albania  ?     No. 

c.  Whether  Mr.  Liitge's  license  shall  be  renewed  ?  Yes,  with  the  ad- 
monition from  the  President  that  he  attend  more  diligently  and  be 
careful  in  the  performance  of  his  ministerial  duties. 

9.  After  the  reports  in  reference  to  the  catechists  were  read,  it 
was 

Resolved,  a.  Mr.  Schmucker  shall  receive  a  full  license  as  licensed 
candidate  in  his  former  congregations,  b.  Mr.  Jager  likewise,  c.  Also 
Mr.  Riitz.  d.  And  Mr.  Benz,  with  permission  to  serve  a  new  congre- 
gation, the  so-called  Belman's  Church,  in  such  wise,  however,  that  he 
shall  remain  under  the  supervision  of  the  preacher  in  Lancaster,  as 
before. 

10.  In  reference  to  the  new  candidates,  it  was 

Resolved,  a.  That  Mr.  Ellisen  receive  a  full  license  as  licensed  can- 
didate for  the  congregations  in  Obermilford,  Obersaccon,  Salzbury  and 
Allentown. 

b.  That  Mr.  Carl  Stock  shall  receive  a  license  as  licensed  candidate, 
if  he  shows  the  President  and  Secretary  a  call  from  some  congrega- 
tion. 

c.  That  Mr.  Stauch  receive  a  license  as  catechist  in  Redstone,  Mor- 
gantown  and  Salem,  under  the  suj>ervision  of  the  ordained  preacher  in 
Martinsburg. 

11.  A  protocol  of  a  special  conference  held  in  Virginia  was  read  and 
listened  to  with  pleasure. 

May  29th  p.m., 

12.  The  licenses  of  the  licensed  candidates  and  catechists  were  deliv- 
ered to  them 

13.  The  mandatorii  (attorneys)  of  the  Halle  Orphan  house  distributed 


FORTY-SIXTH  CONVENTION,  1793.  267 

eighty-four  Spanish  dollars  to  the  assemhled  pastors,  so  that  each,  and 
the  absent  Senior  Kurz  and  Wilh.  Kurz,  received  three  dollars. 

14.  Finally  the  meeting  was  closed  with  prayer. 

In  the  evening  Candidate  Wiegand  preached. 

All  these  proceedings  are  attested  by 

Emanuel  Schulze, 

President. 

Heinrich  Muhlenberg, 

Secretary. 


FORTY-SEVENTH  CONVENTION. 

1794. 


SYNODICAL  MEETING. 

Held  at  Beading,  Trinity  Sunday,  June  15,  a.m. 

At  9  o'clock  the  preachers,  together  with  the  delegates  from  the  various 
congregations  went  to  the  old  church,  and  from  there  in  procession  to 
the  new  church  to  consecrate  it. 

President  Schulze,  standing  before  the  altar,  proclaimed  that  the  new 
church  should  he  called  Trinity  Church,  and  consecrated  it  with  a 
prayer.  The  consecration  sermon  was  preached  by  Dr.  Helmuth  on  II 
Cor.  6:  16.  In  the  afternoon  Dr.  Muhlenberg  preached  on  I  Tim. 
1 :  15.     The  evening  sermon  was  in  English. 

Monday,  June  16th,  a.m. 

At  9  o'clock  there  was  another  service,  at  which  Pastor  Schulze 
preached. 

At  11  o'clock  the  Synodical  Meeting  was  opened  in  the  church  with 
prayer.     The  following  ministers  were  present : 

1.    ORDAINED   PREACHERS. 

Wilhelm  Kurz,  from  Jonestown. 
Emanuel  Schulze,  from  Tolpehocken. 
Henrich  Helmuth,  from  Philadelphia. 
Friedrich  Schmidt,  from  Philadelphia. 
Henrich  Muhlenberg,  from  Lancaster. 
Jacob  Buskirk,  from  Gwinnet  and  Whitpan. 
Conrad  Roller,  from  Alt  Goshenhoppen. 
C.  Friedrich  Wildban,  from  Reading. 
Henrich  Moller,  from  New  Holland. 
Jacob  Gering,  from  Yorktown. 
Daniel  Lehman,  from  Misillum. 
Friedrich  Ernst,  from  Hudson,  in  New  York  State. 
Daniel  Schroter,  from  Hanover. 
Valentin  Melsheimer,  from  Hanover. 
Friedrich  Weinland,  from  New  Hanover. 
Friedrich  Schafer,  from  Germantown. 
Wilhelm  Carpenter,  from  Culpepper,  in  Virginia. 
268 


FORTY-SEVENTH  CONVENTION,  1794.  269 

2.    LICENSED   CANDIDATES. 

Anton  Liitge,  from  Chamberstown. 

Casper  Dill,  on  the  Jordan. 

Christian  Espig,  from  Sunbury. 

Gunther  Wiegand,  from  Tannytown,  [Dannitown.] 

George  Ellisen,  from  Ober  Millford. 

Conrad  Jiiger,  from  Williamstown. 

Georg  Schmucker,  from  Qnickel's  Congregation. 

Peter  Bentz,  from  Mountjoy. 

3.    CATECIIIST. 

Johann  Stauch,  from  Redstone. 

DELEGATES  WHO  BROUGHT  WRITTEN  CREDENTIALS. 

From  Philadelphia,  Friedrich  A.  Muhlenberg  and  Henrich  Kiimmerer. 

From  Lancaster,  Bernhard  Hubly,  George  Hoff,  Philip  Klein,  Henrich 
Gross. 

From  Reading,  Peter  Filbert,  Michael  Krauss. 

From  New  Hanover,  Sebastian  Reifschneider,  Matthias  Wartinan. 

From  Chamberstown,  Michael  Eberle. 

From  Sunbury,  Paul  Baldy. 

Hereupon  they  proceeded  to  the  election  of  officers  for  this  year ;  by 
a  majority  of  votes  Pastor  Schulze  Avas  elected  President,  and  Pastor 
Schmidt  Secretary. 

The  following  ministers  were  absent : 

1.    EXCUSED.  2.    UNEXCUSED. 

Christoph  Kuntze  from  New  York.     Ludwig  Voigt,  from  Peiksland. 
Joseph  Wichterman.  Christian  Streit,  from  Winchester. 

Andr.  Krug,  from  Friedrichstadt.       Daniel  Kurtz,  from  Baltimore. 
August  Ritz.  David  Jung,  from  Martinsburg. 

Paul  Ilinkel,  from  Shenandoah  Co, 

The  various  communications  were  handed  in,  numbering  23. 

A  letter  from  Dr.  Kunze  was  read,  in  which  he  excused  his  absence 
and  gave  an  account  of  the  pastors  in  New  York  State. 

A  letter  from  Candidate  Wichterman  was  read.  In  it  he  reports  that 
after  the  close  of  the  Synodical  Meeting  he  had  indeed  gone  to  Fried- 
richstown,  but  was  not  well  received  there,  and  now  is  serving  East 
Camp  and  other  congregations  in  New  York  State. 

Closed  with  prayer. 

June  16th,  p.m. 

At  3  o'clock  they  began  with  prayer. 

A  writing  from  Bernhard  Gilbert,  a  member  of  the  congregation  in 


270 


DOCUMENTAKY  HISTORY. 


New  Hanover,  was  read,  in  which  various  complaints  are  made  against 
Pastor  Weinland.  Among  other  matters,  Bernhard  Gilbert  complains, 
that  it  is  Pastor  Weinland's  fault  that  he  was  excluded  from  the  Church 
Council.  Pastor  Weinland  orally  defended  himself  against  these  com- 
plaints, and  this  occupied  the  greater  part  of  the  afternoon.  Finally  it 
was  resolved  that  Pastor  Gering,  Pastor  Melsheimer  and  Mr.  Kiim- 
merer  be  a  committee  to  investigate  these  complaints  and  report  on  them. 

Closed  with  prayer. 

In  the  evening  Mr.  Dill  preached. 


Tuesday,  June  17th,  a.m. 

After  prayer,  a  letter  from  Adam  Arnold  in  Hagerstown  was  read, 
in  which  he  wished  that  ways  and  means  might  be  found  to  publish 
some  melodies  to  hymns.     Thereupon  it  was 

Resolved,  That  Dr.  Helmuth,  F.  A.  Muhlenberg,  Esq.,  and  Mr. 
Moller,  of  Philadelphia,  be  a  committee  to  publish  in  German  papers  a 
plan  for  the  publication  of  a  tune-book,  in  order  that  other  preachers 
who  have  experience  in  such  work  may  express  their  opinions  as  to 
how  such  a  useful  book  is  to  be  best  arranged ;  and  that  then  the  said 
committee  proceed  with  the  publication. 

A  letter  from  Candidate  Ritz  was  read,  in  which  he  excuses  his 
absence,  and  desires  to  be  transferred  to  other  congregations.  As 
several  congregations  in  Penn's  Valley  petitioned  for  a  pastor,  it  was 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Ritz  might  visit  these  congregations,  and  if  he 
found  the  circumstances  satisfactory,  might  accept  and  serve  them. 

[Pastor  Gering  offered  to  inform  Mr.  Ritz,  and  Candidate  Espig  the 
congregations.] 

The  following  reports  of  the  baptized,  etc,  in  1793  were  handed  in : 


Pastors. 
Mr.  Helmuth  and  f 
"     Schmidt 
"    Muhlenberg, 


Communi- 

Congregations. 

Baptized. 

Confirmed. 

cants. 

Died 

\  Philadelphia 

.  508 

116 

1075 

805 

Lancaster    . 

.  170 

70 

695 

58 

r  Newholland 

.    53 

32 

— 

4 

Bergstrasse  . 

.    .    16 

— 

— 

6 

Modekrick  . 

.    16 

21 

— 

6 

Allegany .   . 

.    18 

22 

— 

3 

Manheim     . 

.      7 

27 

— 

— 

^  Strasburg    . 

.    15 

15 

— 

— 

Moller, 


1  Among  the  805  deceased  are  641  who  died  of  the  yellow  or  pestilential  fever, 
which  in  August,  September,  October  and  November,  1793,  carried  off  5000  per- 
sons in  and  about  Philadelphia. 


FORTY-SEVENTH  CONVENTION,  1794.  271 


.A 

i'  store. 
[r.  Roller, 

'    Lehman, 

Congregations.        Baptized. 

Altgoshenhoppen    87 
Richmond   .    .    .  186 

Confirmed. 

70 

Communi- 

473 
1140 

Died. 
51 

36 

'     Carpenter, 
'    K  rug. 

Culpepper  .    .    .116 
Fried  richstadt    .  174 

5 
61 

211 

472 

12 
42 

'    Schafer, 

Germantown   .    .    65 

20 

253 

35 

"    Lutge, 
«    Dill, 

Chambersburg    .    64 
Jordan     ....    55 

32 
45 

64 
745 

39 
24 

'    Espig, 
'     Wiegand, 
'    Ellisen, 

Sunbnry  ....    63 
Danny  town     .    .181 
Ober  Milford  .    .  143 

20 

92 

120 

306 

894 

1374 

6 
30 
44 

'    «T%er, 

Williamstown  .   .  174 

107 

701 

19 

'     Schmucker, 

Quickel's  Church,  80 

24 

152 

16 

'     Bentz, 

Mount  Joy  ...    70 

— 

252 

— 

'     Stauch, 

Redstone      .    .    .148 

— 

— 

7 

'     Weinland, 

f  New  Hanover     .    45 
1  Providence  ...    35 

43 

253 
106 

12 
6 

'    Wildban, 

Reading  ....    86 

42 

413 

21 

'    Schulze, 

Tulpehocken  .    .  132 

72 

507 

47 

The  committee  appointed  to  investigate  the  charges  brought  against 
Pastor Weinland,  handed  in  its  opinion,  which  was  read  and  discussed: 
whereupon  the  Synod  reached  the  following  decision  :  The  Synodical 
Meeting  considers  the  complaints  against  Pastor  Weinland  not  suf- 
ficiently substantiated,  and  will  therefore,  in  spite  of  these  charges, 
regard  him  as  a  worthy  member. 

At  the  request  of  the  Ministerium,  Pastor  "Weinland  and  Bernhard 
Gilbert  were  reconciled,  and  promised,  before  God  and  the  assembly,  in 
future  to  mention  nothing  of  that  which  had  happened  between  them. 

Bui  as  Bernhard  Gilbert  also  complained  that  he  was  unjustly 
excluded  from  the  Church  Council,  it  was — 

I;  solved,  That  Pastor  Friedrich  Schmidt,  Pastor  Friedrich  Ernst, 
Friedrich  August  Muhlenberg,  Esq.,  and  Mr.  Henrich  Kiimmerer  be  a 
committee  to  investigate  whether  the  removal  of  Bernhard  Gilbert  from 
the  office  of  trustee  in  the  congregation  at  New  Hanover  was  in  accord- 
ance with  the  Constitution  of  said  congregation. 

Resolved,  as  a  By-Law  to  the  Ministerial  Order : 

"  If  no  delegate  accompanies  a  preacher  to  the  Synodical  Meeting, 
the  Church  Council  of  such  congregation  shall  report  in  writing  the 
reasons  why  the  congregation  has  not  sent  any  ;"  and  that  each  preacher 
announce  thia  resolution  in  his  congregations  before  each  annual 
Synodical  Meeting. 


272  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Finally,  it  was  decided  by  ballot,  that  the  next  annual  Synodical 
Meeting  shall  be  held  at  Philadelphia,  on  Trinity  Sunday. 
Closed  with  prayer. 
In  the  evening  Mr.  Ellisen  preached. 

Emanuel  Schulze, 

P.  t.  President. 
JOHANN    FrIEDRICH   SCHMIDT, 

P.  t.  Secretary. 


MINISTEEIAL    MEETING. 

Held  at  Reading,  June  18,  1794. 


Forenoon. 

After  prayer,  the  licensed  candidates  and  catechists  handed  in  their 
papers,  viz.  : 

Mr.  Liitge  :  his  diary,  two  sermons,  his  license ;  Mr.  Dill :  his  license ; 
Mr.  Espig  :  his  diary,  one  sermon,  his  license ;  Mr.  Wiegand  :  his  license  ; 
Mr.  Ellisen  :  his  diary,  two  sermons,  his  license  ;  Mr.  J'ager :  diary,  two 
sermons,  his  license  ;  Mr.  Schmucker  :  diary,  two  sermons,  his  license ; 
Mr.  Bentz :  one  sermon,  his  license ;  and  Mr.  Stauch  :  two  sermons, 
his  license. 

A  call  from  New  Goshenhoppen,  Trumbauer's  and  Schiitzen's  churches, 
was  read.  They  desire  Mr.  Gaisenhains  [Geissenhainer]  as  their  pastor, 
and  petition  for  the  consent  of  the  Ministerium. 

A  call  from  Griinwitsch  [Greenwich],  Ziegelkirche  and  New  Allmiin- 
gel  for  Mr.  Obenhausen  was  read.  Also  a  call  from  Lebanon,  Berg- 
kirche,  Campelsstadt  and  Ziegelkirche  for  Mr.  Lochman.  Also  a  call 
from  Bermudian,  Kessler's  and  Langsdorf  s  churches  for  Mr.  BothrafT. 
A  call  from  Great  Cove,  in  Bedford  County,  for  Jos.  Stock.  A  call 
from  Newberry  Township,  in  York  County,  for  George  Graber.  A  call 
from  Leukensthal  [Lyken's  Valley]  for  Johann  Grob. 

A  petition  from  the  congregations  of  the  Frieden's  church,  St.  Peter's 
church,  St.  Daniel's  church,  and  Kriigerstown,  in  Friedrich  and  Wash- 
ington County,  in  Maryland,  was  read,  in  which  they  request  thatHhey 
and  their  preacher  Hehl  be  received  into  the  Ministerium. 

After  the  various  papers  were  duly  considered,  it  was 

Resolved,  That  the  candidates  Gaisenhains,  Obenhausen  and  Loch- 
man be  orally  examined  by  the  Ministerium  this  afternoon  from  3  to 


FORTY-SEVENTH  CONVENTION,  1794.  273 

3:30;  and  that  Johaim  Rothraff,  George  Griiber  and  Johann  Grob  be 
similarly  examined  from  4  to  4:30  p.m. 
Closed  with  prayer. 

Wednesday,  June  18,  1794,  p.m. 

Opened  with  prayer. 

After  the  various  candidates  had  been  duly  examined,  the  following 
appointments  were  made  by  the  Ministerium : 

That  Fricdrich  "Wilhelm  Gaisenhains  receive  a  full  license  as  licensed 
candidate  for  the  congregations  in  New  Goshenhoppen,  at  Trurnbauer'st 
and  at  Schutzen's. 

Likewise  Johann  Friedrich  Obenhausen,  for  the  congregations  in 
Greenwich,  the  Ziegelkirche  and  in  New  Allmiingel. 

Also,  George  Lochman  for  the  congregations  in  Lebanon,  Campels- 
stadt,  the  Bergkirche  and  the  Ziegelkirche. 

That  Johannes  Rothraff  receive  a  license  as  catechist  for  the  congre- 
gations in  Bermudian,  Kessler's  and  Langsdorfs  congregations,  and 
that  he  be  under  the  supervision  of  the  pastor  at  Yorktown. 

That  Griiber  and  Grob  cannot  be  received,  because  of  their  insuffi- 
cient training,  but  that  Dr.  Helmuth  and  Dr.  Muhlenberg  inform  them 
that  they  would  not  be  forbidden  to  hold  devotional  meetings,  but  that 
they  must  be  diligent  and  make  better  progress  in  theology 

That  we  could  have  nothing  to  do  with  Messrs.  Hehl  and  Stock. 

Letters  from  Hegerstown  and  the  congregations  united  with  it  were 
read,  in  which  they  desire  George  Schmucker  as  their  pastor. 

Thereupon  it  was  Resolved,  to  renew  the  licenses  of  the  licensed  can- 
didates Liitge,  Dill,  Espig,  Wiegand,  Ellisen,  Jiiger,  Schmucker,  Ritz, 
and  Bentz  for  one  year,  to  extend  Schmucker's  to  Hegerstown,  Funks- 
town  and  Canegedschick  [Canogcoscheague],  and  to  issue  that  of  Espig 
for  Bunbury,  Pennshill  and  Buffloe,  in  Northumberland. 

Resolved,  That  on  account  of  the  great  distance  from  an  ordained 
preacher,  Catechist  Stauch  be  granted  a  full  license,  but  that  it  extend 
only  over  Redstone  and  other  congregations  near  it  on  the  frontier. 

Resolved,  as  a  By-Law:  "That  those  preachers  who  have  supervision 
over  catechista  inform  them  that,  to  save  expense  and  for  other  reasons, 
they  aeed  Dot  personally  appear  at  the  Synodical  and  Ministerial  Meet- 
ings, but  can  send  their  papers  through  those  under  whose  care  they  are." 

The  licenses  were  then  prepared  ;  the  President  read  to  the  licensed 
candidates  and  catechists  a  statement  of  their  duties,  and  handed  them 
their  licenses. 

The  surplus  of  the  interest  of  the  Rodelheim  legacy,  £10,  7s  ,  6d.,  was 
divided  among  the  present  pastors  and  other  needy  persons. 
18 


274  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Finally,  all  the  pastors  bowed  their  knees  before  God,  and  com- 
mended themselves  and  their  congregations  to  the  care  and  mercy  of 
their  great  Shepherd,  Jesus  Christ. 

In  the  evening  Mr.  Lehman  preached. 

Emanuel  Schulze, 

P.  t.  President. 
JOHANN   FRIEDRICH   SCHMIDT, 

P.  t.  Secretary. 


FORTY-EIGHTH  CONVENTION. 

1795- 

(Sunday,  May  31st,  1795) 


SYNODICAL  MEETING. 

Held  at  Philadelphia,  May  31,  1795,  it  being  the  Festival  of 
the  Trinity. 

Since  Zion's  Church  in  Philadelphia  was  burnt  down  on  Decern, 
ber  26,  1794,  and  the  honorable  Church  Council  of  the  Evangelical 
Reformed  congregations  in  a  fraternal  spirit  had  given  us  the  use  of 
their  church  during  the  days  of  the  meeting,  services  were  to-day  held 
in  St.  Michael's  and  in  the  Reformed  Church  in  the  morning,  afternoon 
and  evening.  In  the  Reformed  Church  Mr.  Schulze,  Mr.  Lehman,  Mr. 
Gaisenhainer  preached  ;  in  St.  Michael's,  Mr.  Muhlenberg,  Mr.  Wie- 
gand  and  Mr.  Schiifer. 

Monday,  June  1st,  forenoon. 
At  9  o'clock  the  pastors  and  delegates  assembled  in  St.  Michael's 
Church  and  the  Synodical  Meeting  was  opened  with  prayer.  The  pastors 

present  were : 

1.  Ordained  Preachers  : 

Emanuel  Schulze,  from  Tulpehocken. 

Henrich  Helmuth,  from  Philadelphia. 

Friedrich  Schmidt,  from  Philadelphia. 

Henrich  Muhlenberg,  from  Lancaster. 

Valentin  Melzheimer,  from  Hanover,  in  York  County. 

Friedrich  Schiifer,  from  Germantown. 

Daniel  Lehman,  from  Misillum. 

Jacob  Buskirk,  from  Macunshy. 

Conrad  Roller,  from  Old  Goshenhoppen. 

Andreas  Krug,  from  Friedrichstadt. 

Daniel  Kurz,  from  Baltimore. 

Friedrich  "Wildbahn,  from  Reading. 

2.  Licensed  Candidates. 
Giinther  "Wiegand,  from  Taneytown. 
Conrad  Jiiger,  from  "Williams  Township. 

275 


276  DOCUMENTAEY  HISTORY. 

George  Ellisen,  from  Upper  Milford. 

Fr.  Wilh.  Gaisenbainer,  from  New  Goshenhoppen. 

Friedrich  Obenhausen,  from  Greenwich. 

George  Lochman,  from  Lebanon. 

Christian  Espig,  from  Sunbury. 

3.  Catechist. 
Johannes  RothrafF,  from  Bermudian. 
Delegates  Who  Brought  Written  Credentials: 

From  Philadelphia  :  Peter  Lex  and  Balthasar  Emrich. 
From  Lancaster  :  Michael  Moser. 
From  Germantown  :  George  Grofle. 
From  Williams  Township  :  Henrich  Haupt. 
From  Lebanon :  Christoph.  Uhler. 
From  Baltimore  :  Carl  Schwartz., 
As  officers  were  elected :   Doctor  Helmuth,  President,  and  Pastor 
Schmidt,  Secretary. 

The  following  pastors  were  absent : 

1.  Excused.  2.  Without  Excuse. 

Christoph.  Kunze.  AVilhelm  Kurz. 

Henrich  Moller.  Ludwig  Voigt. 

Paul  Hinkel.  Daniel  Schroter. 

Christian  Streit.  Friedrich  Ernst. 

David  Jung.  Friedrich  Weinland. 

Jacob  Gering.  Wilhelm  Carpenter. 

Caspar  Dill.  A.  Ulrich  Liitge. 

George  Schmuckcr.  Johann  Stauch. 

Peter  Bentz. 

The  various  papers,  twenty-seven  in  number,  were  handed  in. 

A  letter  from  Doctor  Kunze  was  read,  in  which  he  excuses  his  ab- 
sence, and  reports  that  the  Ministerium  in  New  York  State  has  or- 
dained Candidate  Wichterman. 

Rev.  Mr.  Moller  excuses  his  absence  and  reports  that  he  has  ac- 
cepted a  call  to  Harrisburg  and  the  congregations  united  with  it. 

Rev.  Mr.  Hinkel  reported  that  at  present  he  resides  in  Augusta 
County,  in  Virginia. 

Pastors  Streit  and  Jung  reported  that  a  District  Meeting  in  Virginia 
granted  the  licensed  candidate  Mau  a  license  for  Kentucky  and  re- 
quested that  the  Ministerium  grant  the  District  Meeting  permission  to 
ordain  the  said  Mr.  Mau,  for  which  ordination  Mr.  Mau  himself  also 
petitioned  in  writing. 


FORTY-EIGHTH  CONVENTION,  1795. 


277 


The  Protocol  of  last  year's  Synodical  Meeting  was  read  and  signed. 
The  reports  of  the  baptized,  etc.,  are  as  follows : 


Mr.  Schulze, 


"  Helmuth,  | 

"  Schmidt,   j 

"  Muhlenberg, 

"  Melsheimer, 


"    Schiifer, 
"     Lehman, 

"     Buskirk, 


"     Krug, 

"     Wildbahn, 


"Wiegand, 


"     Jsiger, 


Tulpehocken 
Atolloli  .  . 
Schiiferstadt 
Werwick  . 
Heidelberg 
Wenrichs  . 
Rieds  .    .    . 

Philadelphia 

Lancaster   . 
Hanover 
Codorus  .    . 
Germany     . 
Opossum  Cr. 

Germantown 
Barnhill 
Misillum,    etc 
Macunshy    . 
Drockenland 
Nazareth     . 
Gwynnet 
Whitpain    . 
Upper  Dublin 
Fried  rich  town,  etc 
Reading  .    . 
Downeytown 
Winter's  Church 
Thomas  Creek 
Jacobs'  Church 
Bermudian 
Zion's  Church 
"William's  Township 
Greenwich  .    . 
Saccum   .    .    . 
Allen  Township 


Com- 

Bap- 

Con- 

muni- 

De- 

tized. 

firm 'd 

cants. 

ceas'd. 

61 

48 

258 

— 

53 

41 

192 

— 

29 

— 

113 

— 

31 

26 

103 

1 153 

26 

— 

189 

— 

21 

16 

62 

— 

7 

— 

27 

— 

449 

91 

1124 

211 

158 

71 

626 

40 

167   15  783   49 

72   19  133   33 
150   91  1227   31 


189   25  300   29 
74   47  321   27 


120   47  675   19 


94   31  340   15 


1  In  all  congregations. 


278 


DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 


Mr.  Ellisen, 


Upper  Milford 
Upper  Saccum 
Salzburg      .    . 
Allentown  .    . 


New  Goshenhoppen 
Gaisenhainer,  Trumbauer's  Church 
Schiitzen's  Church 

Old  Goshenhoppen 
Roller,             Indianfield      .    .    .    , 
Tohecke  


Greenwich  . 
"     Obenhausen,    Weissenburg 
Albania  .    . 


Com- 
Bap-     Con-   muni-    De- 
tized.  firm'd.  cants  ceas'd. 


113      57     968      63 


67      18    302      10 


67      97    433      16 


80      18    459      19 


Lochman, 


Rothraff, 


Espig, 


Lebanon  ... 
Bergkirche  .  . 
Ziegelkirche  .  . 
Campelstown  .  , 
Bindnagel's  .  . 
Carlisle  .... 
Langsdorf  .  .  . 
Christ  Church  . 
Bermudian  .  . 
Schuster's  Church 
Steltzen's  .  .  . 
Sunbury  .  .  . 
Buffalo  .... 
Arensburg  .  .  . 
Bruns  Valley 
Penn'sHill  .  . 
Bieber  Church  . 
Mahanai     .    .    . 


43 

87 

243 

18 

19 

— 

85 

8 

5 

— 

51 

1 

19 

— 

23 

3 

30 

— 

85 

2 

93      52 


15 


96      87    503      21 


The  decision  concerning  the  excusing  of  congregations  which  send  no 
delegates  to  the  Synodical  Meeting  was  again  read,  to  be  reported  to 
the  congregations. 

The  report  of  the  committee,  referring  to  the  difficulties  between 
Pastor  Weinland  and  Mr.  Gilbert  in  New  Hanover,  was  read. 

Testimonials  of  satisfaction  with  their  respective  pastors  from  the 


FORTY-EIGHTH  CONVENTION,  1795.  279 

congregations  of  Messrs.  Wiegand,  Gaisenhainer,  Jiiger,  etc.,  were 
read. 

The  congregation  in  Manheim  reported  that  owing  to  the  removal  of 
Pastor  Moller  it  was  without  a  preacher,  and  petitions  for  another 
pastor.     Hereupon  it  was 

Resolved,  That  the  congregation  apply  to  the  nearest  preacher,  and 
that  Mr.  Miililenberg  inform  them  of  this  action 

Concerning  the  schools  in  the  United  Congregations  the  following 
report  was  made : 

Mr.  Krug  reported,  that  in  Friedrichstadt,  there  was  a  German 
school  with  40  to  50  children,  and  in  his  country  congregations  several 
smaller  schools  ;  but  also  complains  that  many  parents  prefer  to  send 
their  children  to  English  schools. 

Mr.  Schulz  reported,  that  in  his  congregations  there  were  several 
German  schools,  and  that  the  tendency  towards  English  was  not  very 
strong. 

Mr.  Helmuth  and  Schmidt  reported,  in  Philadelphia  there  are  three 
main  schools,  namely,  one  for  boys,  one  for  girls,  and  one  for  poor  chil- 
dren, they  have  three  teachers  with  about  250  children ;  besides  these 
there  are  some  smaller  German  schools.  The  preference  for  English  is 
very  strong. 

Mr.  Muhlenberg  reports,  that  Lancaster  has  one  main  school,  with 
40  to  50  children,  and  more.     There  are  also  some  smaller  schools. 

Mr.  Melsheimer  has  only  one  German  school  in  his  congregations 
because  the  tendency  towards  English  is  very  strong. 

In  Mr.  Schafer's  congregations,  the  school  at  Germantown  is  at  pres. 
ent  vacant ;  but  that  at  Barren  Hill  is  in  operation. 

Mr.  Lehman  has  eight  schools  in  his  congregations,  and  several  in 
common  with  the  Reformed. 

In  Mr.  Buskirk's  congregations  there  are  several  schools,  but  most 
of  them  are  only  kept  up  in  winter.  In  one  of  his  congregations  a  school- 
master is  desired,  who  can  play  the  organ. 

Mr.  Roller's  congregations  have  two  school-houses,  but  at  present  no 
teacher ;  would  like  to  have  a  man  who  can  play  the  organ. 

Mr.  Jiiger's  congregation  in  Jersey  has  no  German  schools,  but  in  the 
Pennsylvania  congregations  there  are  some. 

Mr.  Gaisenhainer's  congregation  in  New  Goshenhoppen  has  a  strong 
school ;  but  in  both  the  other  congregations  there  are  none. 

Mr.  Lochmann  has  a  fine  school  in  Lebanon,  as  also  at  the  Berg- 
kirche  ;  several  smaller  schools  and  one  union  school. 

Mr  Espig's  congregations,  in  part,  have  good  schools ;  they  desire  to 
have  a  school-teacher. 


280  DOCUMENTARY^  HISTORY. 

Finally,  at  the  end  of  the  Synodical  Meeting,  it  was  decided  by  ballot, 
that  the  next  annual  Synodical  Meeting  shall  be  held  at  Yorktown,  on 
Trinity  Sunday,  1796. 

Closed  with  prayer  and  singing. 

J.  Heinr.  Chr.  Helmuth, 

P.  t.  President. 
J.  Friedrich  Schmidt, 
P.  t.  Secretary. 


MINISTERIAL  MEETING, 

Held  at  Phieadeehia,  June  2d,  1795. 


After  prayer,  the  licensed  candidates  and  catechists  handed  in  their 
licenses  and  sermons,  which  were  given  to  the  committees  appointed  to 
examine  them,  and  report  on  them. 

A  lengthy  Latin  communication  from  Dr.  Kierulf  was  read.  He 
reports  that  he  was  banished  from  Sweden,  because  he  defended  the 
freedom  of  the  land  against  tyranny,  and  asks  to  be  admitted  into  the 
Ministerium.  But  as  he  was  not  present,  the  Ministerium  reached  no 
decision. 

A  writing  from  Friedrich  Wilhelm  Lang,  a  candidate  of  theology, 
was  read.  He  reports  that  he  is  serving  several  congregations  in  Bed- 
ford County,  Pennsylvania,  and  asks  to  be  received  into  the  Ministerium. 
Mr.  Muhlenberg  and  Mr.  Kurz  were  appointed  to  examine  him  briefly. 

Testimonials  from  Mr.  Quitman,  who  was  stationed  as  Lutheran 
preacher  in  the  Dutch  Island  Curacoa  for  twelve  years,  were  read,  and 
thereupon  Resolved,  that  Mr.  Helmuth  might  offer  him  the  vacant  con- 
gregations in  Springfield  and  at  Tohick. 

After  the  reports  of  the  various  committees  were  duly  considered,  the 
Ministerium  reached  the  following  decisions  : 

1.  That  the  licenses  of  the  following  licensed  candidates  be  renewed 
for  one  year,  viz. : 

Mr.  Espig,  for  Sunbury,  Buffalo,  Penn's  Hill,  Riter  Church,  Penn's 
Valley,  Arensburg  and  Mahanai ;  Mr.  Wiegand,  for  his  former  congre- 
gations ;  Mr.  Dill,  for  his  former  congregations  ;  Mr.  Samuel  Mace,  for 
Lexington,  the  Falls,  Danville,  and  Limestone  in  Kentucky ;  Mr.  Jager, 
as  before  ;  Mr.  Schmucker,  as  before ;  Mr.  Elli?en,  as  before,  and  for 
Steiner's  Church ;  Mr.  Benz,  as  before ;  Mr.  Gaisenhainer,  as  before ; 
Mr.  Obenhausen,  as  before ;  Mr.  Lochman,  as  before. 


FORTY-EIGHTH  CONVENTION,  1795.  281 

2  That  the  following  gentlemen  be  appointed  licensed  candidates, 
viz.  : 

Mr.  RothrafF,  for  Griinkastel  [Greencastle],  Jacob's  Church,  Martin's 
Church,  Bard's  [Beard's]  Church,  and  Mercersburg  ;  Mr.  Lang,  for 
Berlin,  Peintritsch,  Barous,  Miillcrs,  Quiertown,  Castelman's  River, 
Cumberland,  Upper  and  Lower  Millkriek. 

3.  The  following  were  appointed  catechists  : 

Mr.  Georg  Griiber,  for  Freyen  Church,  in  Windsor  Township,  for 
Preyen  Church,  in  Eschenfort  [added  in  pencil  by  Dr.  B  M. 
Schniucker  :    Chaunceford]  Township  and  Sattler's  Church. 

Mr.  Johann  Grob,  for  Dover,  Schuster's,  Stelze,  Kreischer  and  Lower 
Bermudiau,  under  supervision  of  Pastor  Melsheimer. 

In  reference  to  Johann  Herbst,  whom  some  congregations  desire  to 
have  appointed  as  pastor,  it  was  resolved,  that  the  Ministerium  does 
n<  it  yet  consider  him  qualified  ;  he  was  advised  to  study  diligently,  and 
again  report  at  the  next  Ministerial  Meeting. 

In  reference  to  Mr.  Hehl,  who  would  like  to  become  a  member  of  the 
Ministerium,  the  Ministerium  abides  by  the  resolution  of  last  year. 

The  committee,  which  had  received  the  sermons  of  the  licensed  can- 
didates for  examination,  desired  that  the  following  points  be  presented 
to  the  candidates : 

1.  That  in  the  future  they  should  hand  in  their  outlines,  as  they  were 
accustomed  to  preach  their  sermons  before  their  congregations. 

2.  That  some  of  them  might  be  admonished  to  aim  more  at  edifica- 
tion and  popularity  than  at  oratorial  art,  for  if  they  preach  sermons 
like  the  outlines  presented,  their  congregations  are  to  be  sincerely  pitied. 

3.  That  those  gentlemen,  who  handed  in  no  outlines,  be  severely  cen- 
sured. 

4.  That  those  pastors  who  clothe  themselves  unbecomingly,  be  earn- 
estly admonished  to  avoid  such  offence. 

The  Ministerium  approved  the  points  reported,  and  resolved  that  the 
President  should  notify  the  persons  concerned. 

The  President  read  to  the  licensed  candidates  and  catechists  a  state- 
ment of  their  duties,  and  handed  them  their  licenses. 

The  surplus  of  the  Rodelheim  interest  was  distributed  to  the  pastors 
present — £23,  12,  6. 
Closed  with  prayer. 

Joh.  Friedrich  Schmidt, 

P.  t.  Secretary. 


FOBTY-NINTH   CONVENTION. 

1796. 

(Sunday,  May  22d.) 


SYNODICAL  MEETING 

Held  in  Yorktown,  May  23  and  24,  Anno  Domini,  1796. 

In  the  forenoon  Mr.  Helmuth  preached  in  the  Lutheran,  and  Mr. 
Muhlenberg  in  the  Reformed  church ;  in  the  afternoon  Pastor  Schmidt 
preached,  and  in  the  evening  Mr.  Lochman. 

Monday,  May  23d,  a.m. 

At  9  o'clock  the  pastors  and  delegates  assembled,  and  the  Synod 
was  opened  with  prayer. 

The  following  pastors  were  present : 

1.  Ordained  Preachers. 
Emanuel  Schulze,  from  Tulpehocken. 
Heinrich  Helmuth, ") 

Friedrich  Schmidt,  j  ^Philadelphia. 
Heinrich  Muhlenberg,  from  Lancaster. 
Friedrich  Wildbahn,  from  Reading. 
Christian  Streit,  from  Millerstown,  in  Virginia. 
Jacob  Goring,  from  Yorktown. 
Daniel  Schroter,  from  Hanover,  in  York  County. 
Heinrich  Moller,  from  Harrisburg. 
Valentin  Melsheimer,  from  Hanover. 
Daniel  Kurz,  from  Baltimore,  in  Maryland. 
David  Jung,  from  Martinsburg,  in  Virginia. 
Wilhelm  Carpenter,  from  Culpepper,  in  Virginia. 
Paul  Hinkel,  from  Stentown  [Stanton],  in  Virginia. 

2.  Licensed   Candidates. 
Conrad  Jager,  from  Williams  Township. 

Georg  Schmucker,  from  Hjigerstown,  in  Maryland. 
Peter  Benz,  from  Mount  Joy. 
Fr.  Wilh.  Gaisenhains,  from  New  Goschenhoppen. 
282 


FORTY-NINTH  CONVENTION,  179G.  283 

Friedrich  Obenhausen,  from  Allemangel  [Allemingao]. 

Georg  Lochman,  from  Lebanon. 

Joliann  Stauch,  from  Redstone. 

Johann  Rothrauff,  from  Griinkastel. 

Carl  Stock,  from  Picket  Mountain  [Peaked  Mountain],  in 

Virginia. 
Friedricb  Lang,  from  Berlin. 

3.  Catechists. 

Georg  Griiber,  from  Windsor,  York  County. 
Johann  Grob,  from  Holzschwamp,  York  County. 

4.  Delegates  with  Written  Credentials. 
From  Tulpehocken Michael  Ley. 

"      Philadelphia •]  ~  _.    . 

x  (  Georg  Krebs. 

"  Lancaster Michael  Moser. 

"  Reading Johann  Phillipi. 

"  Yorktown Johann  Hay. 

"  Harrisburg Benjamin  Kurz. 

"  Hanover Georg  Merker. 

"  Hagerstown Christian  Hakky. 

"  Lebanon Conrad  Reinohl. 

"  Griinkastel Frederick  Beyer. 

"  *  Berlin Adam  Neu. 

Officers  were  elected  as  follows :  Doctor  Helmuth,  President,  and 
Pastor  Schmidt,  Secretary. 

The  following  pastors  were  absent : 

1.  With  Excuse.  2.  Without  Excuse. 

Wilhelm  Kurz,  Ludwig  Voigt, 

Christoph  Kunze,  Jacob  Buskerk, 

Daniel  Lehman,  Friederich  Weinland, 

Frederick  Schaefer.  Caspar  Dill, 

Christian  Espig, 
Georg  Ellisen. 

The  various  papers  were  handed  in,  and  the  Protocol  of  the  last 
Synodical  Meeting  was  read. 

A  member  stated  to  the  meeting  that  the  design  of  the  Assembly  of 
this  State,  to  establish  free  schools  throughout  the  State  would  very 
much  injure  our  German  schools,  especially  in  regard  to  the  religion 


284  DOCUMENTARY  HISTOEY. 

taught  in  them,  and  might  very  likely  destroy  them.  It  was  there- 
fore 

Resolved,  That  Messrs.  Helmuth,  Muhlenberg  and  Goring,  together 
with  the  delegates  from  their  congregations,  be  a  committee  to  consider 
the  matter,  and  draft  a  petition  with  reference  to  this  matter,  which 
could  be  handed  to  the  Assembly. 

A  report  of  a  District  Meeting  in  Virginia  was  read.  It  contains 
many  resolutions  and  transactions,  intended  to  promote  the  prosperity 
of  the  congregations  in  Virginia. 

Closed  with  prayer. 

Monday,  May  23d,  p.m. 

Prayer  was  offered. 

Letters  from  various  congregations  were  read,  which  declare  their 
satisfaction  with  their  respective  [preachers]. 

A  letter  from  the  congregation  in  Reading  was  read.  They  report 
that  their  former  preacher,  Mr.  Wildbahn,  has  resigned,  and  request  the 
Ministerium  to  help  them  to  get  another  faithful  pastor.  The  delegate 
was  advised  that  he  might  confer  with  several  of  the  preachers  who 
desire  a  change,  or  that  the  congregation  might  apply  to  any  preacher 
in  the  Ministerium. 

The  congregations  in  Modenkrik  [Muddy  Creek],  Mount  Joy  and 
Manheim,  in  Lancaster  County,  make  written  request  that  Mr.  Benz 
be  permitted  to  administer  the  means  of  grace  to  them.  After  con- 
sidering the  circumstances,  it  was  granted  for  one  year. 

Middletown  and  several  other  congregations  near  Friedrichtown,  in 
Maryland,  ask  for  Mr.  Graber  as  their  preacher.  It  was  referred  to  the 
Ministerial  Meeting. 

Various  congregations  now  vacant :  e.  g.,  Winchester,  in  Virginia ; 
Griinsburg,  Herold's,  Broschkrick  and  Ridge,  which  the  late  Mr.  Liitge 
served  ;  Chambersburg,  Shippensburg,  Scherers,  and  Fallspring  ;  Dany- 
town,  in  Maryland  ;  Pennsburg,  Scherman's  Valley,  in  Cumberland 
County  ;  and  others  petition  for  preachers.  As  in  most  cases  ministers 
are  concerned  who  are  not  yet  ordained,  it  was  referred  to  the  Minis- 
terial Meeting. 

The  congregation  in  Shepherdstown  reports  that  they  are  engaged  in 
building  a  church,  and  petition  for  a  contribution  from  the  United 
Congregations.     Thereupon  it  was 

Resolved,  That  they  be  permitted  to  send  collectors  to  the  various 
congregations. 

The  following  is  the  report  made  by  the  preachers  of  the  number  of 
the  baptized,  confirmed,  communicants  and  deceased  in  their  respective 
congregations  in  the  year  1795 : 


FORTY-NINTH  CONVENTION,  179G.  285 

Preachers.  Baptized. 

Mr.  Schultze      213 

"  Ilelmuth  and  Schmidt  ....  416 

"  Miihlenberg 157 

■*  Wildbahn ,    .  96 

"  Goring 98 

"  Schroter 186 

"  Moller 59 

"  Carpenter 133 

"  Jung 96 

"  Lehman 187 

u  Jager 114 

"  Schmucker 154 

"  Bentz 100 

"  Gaisenhains 91 

"  Obenhausen 78 

M  Lochman 130 

"  Stauch 163 

"  Rothrauff 188 

"  Lang 187 

"  Stock 32 

"  Graber 53 

"  Grob 94 

Closed  with  prayer. 

Tuesday,  May  24th,  a.m. 

Opened  with  prayer. 

The  preachers  gave  a  report  of  the  condition  of  the  schools  in  their 
congregations,  as  follows : 

In  Mr.  Schulze's  congregations  the  schools  are  still  in  the  condition 
they  were  last  year.  Philadelphia  has  four  main  schools,  and  earnest 
efforts  are  being  made  to  improve  them.  Lancaster  [school]  numbers 
40  to  80,  and  German  and  English  are  taught.  Reading  is  still  as 
before,  numbering  60  to  70  children.  Yorktown  is  very  strong,  and 
German  and  English  are  taught  in  the  school.  Mr.  Schroter's  congre- 
gations have  four  German,  and  one  in  which  German  and  English  are 
taught.  Harrisburg  numbers  30  pupils,  and  is  German  and  English. 
McCallister  has  two  English,  and  in  the  country  there  are  several  Ger- 
man schools.  Baltimore  has  no  German  school.  Martinsburg  and 
Schippensburg  have  each  one  school.  In  Mr.  Carpenter's  congrega- 
tions there  are  three  small  German  schools.     In  Mr.  Jiiger's  congrega- 


Coinmuni 

Confirmed. 

cauts. 

Deceased. 

82 

752 

46 

93 

1051 

367 

75 

610 

47 

59 

355 

22 

123 

— 

— 

50 

728 

18 

80 

154 

24 

32 

155 

9 

60 

212 

26 

76 

1187 

31 

— 

415 

20 

48 

246 

24 

53 

279 

— 

61 

658 

14 

29 

510 

23 

62 

478 

28 

62 

226 

19 

92 

219 

15 

235 

692 

24 

15 

140 

6 

17 

40 

6 

— 

— 

13 

286  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

tions  there  are  two  regular  schools  [in  fair  condition  ?].     Hagerstown 
has  one  English  and  one  German  school,  so  also  Funkstown. 

In  Mr.  Bentz's  congregations  there  are  no  German  schools. 

In  Goshenhoppen  the  school  is  constantly  improving. 

Lebanon  has  one  school  with  forty  scholars ;  others  have  some  smaller 
schools  [Ueberschulen]. 

In  Mr.  Stock's  there  are  English  and  German  schools.  In  Mr. 
Lang's,  two  German  and  one  English  and  German.  In  Mr.  Stauch's, 
two.  In  Mr.  Rothrauff's,  tbree  German  winter  schools.  In  Mr. 
Graber's,  two  regular  schools.     In  Mr.  Grob's,  two  winter-schools. 

The  committee  appointed  handed  in  a  petition  addressed  to  the 
General  Assembly,  concerning  schools  in  Pennsylvania ;  it  was  read, 
considered,  approved,  and  signed  by  the  preachers  and  delegates. 

Resolved,  That  150  copies  be  printed,  and  distributed  among  the 
various  congregations  to  be  signed. 

At  the  close  of  the  Synodical  Meeting  it  was  decided,  by  ballot,  that 
the  next  annual  Synodical  Meeting  should  be  held  at  Baltimore  on  the 
Festival  of  the  Trinity. 

Finally  prayer  was  offered  and  a  hymn  sung. 

J.  Heinr.  Ch.  Helmuth, 

P.  t.  President. 
Joh.  Friedrich  Schmidt, 

P.  t.  Secretary. 


MINISTERIAL  MEETING 

At  Yorktown,  May  24th. 


Morning  Session. 

Opened  with  prayer. 

A  certificate  of  ordination  and  several  testimonials  of  a  Lutheran 
preacher  from  Germany,  Mr.  August  Heinrich  Schmidt,  were  read. 
The  said  preacher  requests  to  be  received  into  the  Ministerium.  There- 
upon it  was 

Resolved,  That  the  Ministerium,  after  reading  the  favorable  testi- 
monials, recognize  Mr.  Schmidt  as  an  ordained  preacher,  but  does  not 
think  it  possible  to  receive  him  as  a  member  of  the  Ministerium,  because 
it  is  contrary  to  the  custom  of  the  Ministerium  to  receive  any  preacher 
into  its  association  before  it  becomes  evident  that  his  conduct  agrees 
with  his  testimonials  from  abroad. 

Closed  with  prayer. 


FORTY-NINTH  CONVENTION,  1796.  287 

Afternoon  Session. 

After  prayer,  various  petitions  of  congregations  in  Pennsylvania  and 
Virginia  were  read,  in  which  they  request  that  certain  candidates  may 
be  examined  by  the  Ministerium,  and  given  to  them  as  pastors.  These 
candidates  are  Mr.  Johann  Folz,  Adolph  Spindler,  Johann  Herbst, 
and  Johann  Michael  Steck. 

Pastor  Schulze  desired  that  his  son,  Johann  Andreas  Schulze,1  might 
be  examined  at  the  same  time. 

Hereupon  the  candidates  and  catechists  handed  in  their  writings 
and  licenses,  and  the  Ministerium  divided  itself  into  committees  to 
examine  the  candidates,  and  look  over  the  sermons  and  diaries  they 
had  handed  in. 

It  was  resolved  that  Mr.  Muhlenberg  should  deliver  a  memorial 
address  in  honor  of  the  deceased  Pastor  Krug  in  Fried  richstown,  and 
that  Messrs.  Goring  and  Melsheimer  shall  accompany  him  thither. 

After  the  various  committees  had  handed  in  their  reports,  the  Minis- 
terium passed  the  following  resolutions  : 

1.  That  the  licenses  of  the  licensed  candidates  be  renewed. 

2.  That  Mr.  Johann  Andreas  Schulze  receive  a  full  license,  and  assist 
his  [father]  in  his  congregations. 

3.  That  Mr.  Georg  Graber  receive  a  full  license  for  Middletown, 
Geber's  church,  Ringert's,  Schauman's,  Scherpsberg,  in  Maryland,  and 
Loudon  in  Virginia. 

4.  That  Mr.  Johann  Grob  receive  a  full  license  for  Dover,  Paradise, 
Lower  Bermudian,  Schuster's,  Fissel's,  and  Stelzen's  church. 

5.  That  Mr.  Georg  Schmucker  serve  Hagerstown,  Funkstown,  Can- 
egoschick  and  Williamsburg. 

6.  That  Mr.  Peter  Bentz,  besides  his  former  congregations,  also  serve 
Manheim  and  Modekrik. 

7.  That  Mr.  Johann  Folz,  as  licensed  candidate,  serve  St.  Peter's 
church,  Udder's  church,  at  Powelsford,  and  Brook's  Cape,  in  Virginia. 

8.  That  Mr.  Adolph  Spindler,  as  licensed  candidate,  serve  St.  John's 
church,  Hone  meeting  house  and  Frieden's  church,  in  Virginia. 

9.  That  Mr.  Johann  Michael  Steck,  as  licensed  candidate,  serve 
Greensburg,  Herold's,  Bruschkiik,  Ridge,  at  Jacobskrik  and  at  Alle- 
gany, in  Westmoreland  County. 

10.  That  Mr.  Johann  Herbst  serve  Schierman's  Valley,  Great  Spring, 
Kennokoqui,  Trendel's  church,  Frieden's  church,  in  Rothland  and  Car- 
lisle, in  Pennsylvania. 

1  [Afterwards  Governor  of  Pennsylvania,  1823-29.] 


288  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

After  the  various  certificates  for  the  places  mentioned  had  been  pre- 
pared, the  President  read  to  the  licensed  candidates  a  statement  of  their 
duties,  and  gave  them  their  licenses. 

The  mandatorii  [attorneys]  of  Director  Schulze  of  the  Orphan 
House,  in  Halle,  distributed  to  the  preachers  present,  and  the  widow 
of  Mr.  Lutge,  30£  3s.  9d.  of  the  interest  of  the  Rodelheim  legacy. 

Closed  with  prayer  and  the  singing  of  a  hymn. 

Joh.  Friedrich  Schmidt. 

P.  t.  Secretary. 


FIFTIETH  CONVENTION. 

1797. 
(Sunday,  June  11th.) 


ACTS  OF  THE  SYNODICAL  MEETING. 
Held  at  Baltimore,  June  11,  12,  13  and  14,  Anno  Domini,  1797. 

In  the  forenoon  Dr.  Helnmth  preached  in  the  Lutheran  Church,  Mr. 
Melsheimer  in  the  Reformed  Church,  and  Jacob  Goeriug  in  Otterbein's. 
In  the  afternoon,  Mr.  Lochmann  in  the  Lutheran  Church,  Mr.  Jung 
in  the  Reformed,  and  Mr.  Schmucker  in  Otterbein's.  In  the  evening, 
Dr.  Muhlenberg  in  the  Lutheran  Church.  The  services  were  well 
attended,  and  it  is  to  be  hoped  that  the  addresses  have  not  remained 
without  blessing.  It  was  a  pleasure  to  observe  the  spirit  of  charity 
between  the  members  of  the  various  denominations. 

Monday,  June  12th,  a.m. 
At  nine  o'clock  the   pastors  and  their  delegates  assembled  in  the 
church,  and  the  Synod  was  opened  with  prayer. 

1.  The  ordained  preachers  present  were : 

Mr.  J.  C.  Henrich  Helmuth,  Th.D.,  from  Philadelphia. 

"  Heinrich  Muhlenberg,  T.D.,  from  Lancaster,  Pennsylvania. 

"  Daniel  Kurtz,  P.  L.  [Pastor  loci.] 

"  C.  Friedrich  Wildbahn,  from  Friedrickstown,  Maryland. 

"  Valentin  Melsheimer,  from  Hanover,  Pennsylvania. 

"  F.  David  Schaeffer,  from  Germantown,  Pennsylvania. 

"  Daniel  Schroder,  from  Hanover,  Pennsylvania. 

"  David  Jung,  from  Martinsburg,  Virginia. 

"  Jacob  Goeriug,  from  Yorktowu,  Pennsylvania. 

2.  The  Licensed  candidates  present  were  : 

Mr.  Joh.  Georg  Schmucker,  from  Hagerstown,  Maryland. 
"     George  Lochmann,  from  Lebanon,  Pennsylvania. 
"     Johannes  Stauch,  from  Redstone,  Pennsylvania. 
"     Johannes  Rothrauff.  from  Greencastlc,  Pennsylvania. 
"     Georg  Griiber,  from  Middletown,  Maryland. 

19  289 


290  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Mr.  Johannes  Grob,  from  Dover,  Pennsylvania. 
"     Adolph  Spindler,  from  Augusta  County,  Virginia. 
"     Johannes  Herbst,  from  Sherman's  Valley,  Pennsylvania. 

3.  Delegates,  with  credentials,  were  present — 

1.  From  Philadelphia,  Mr.  Georg  Krebs. 
Hagerstown,  Mr.  Jacob  Kurtz. 
Lebanon,  Mr  Hoffmann. 

Davids,  Zions, . 

Redstone, . 


9. 


Baltimore,  Mr.  Englehardt  Yaiser. 

Middletown,  in  Maryland, . 

Dover  and  other  congregations,  Mr.  Georg  Riihl. 
Hanover,  Mr. . 


4.  Absent  ordained  preachers,  who  sent  letters  of  excuse : 

Mr.  Wilhelm  Kurtz,  Jonestown,  Pennsylvania. 
"    Joh.  Friedrich  Schmidt,  Philadelphia. 
"    Joh.  Christoph  Kunze,  New  York. 
"    Heinrich  Moller,  Harrisburg,  Pennsylvania, 
"    William  Carpenter,  Culpepper,  Virginia. 
"    Paul  Hinckel,  Shenandoah,  Virginia. 

5.  Absent  licensed  candidates,  who  excused  themselves  in  writing : 

Mr.  Joh.  Conrad  Jager,  Williams  Township,  Pennsylvania. 
"     Peter  Bens,  Cocalico,  Pennsylvania. 

"     F.  Wilhelm  Geisenheiner,  New  Goshenhoppen,  Pennsylvania. 
"     F.  Wilhelm  Lange,  Berlin,  Pennsylvania. 
"     Carl  Stock,  Picket  Mountain,  Virginia. 
"     Joh.  Michael  Steck,  Greensburg,  Pennsylvania. 

The  election  of  officers  was  held.  Doctor  Helmuth  was  chosen  Pres- 
dent,  and  Jacob  Goering,  Secretary. 

The  various  writings  which  had  been  received  were  handed  in, 
and  the  Protocol  of  the  last  Synodical  Meeting  was  read. 

The  congregation  in  Hagerstown  made  written  request,  that  the  next 
Synodical  Meeting  be  held  there. 

The  congregation  in  Lebanon  likewise  made  request,  that  the  next 
Synod  be  held  there.  Resolved,  That  these  requests  be  deferred  to  the 
close  of  the  Synodical  Meeting,  because  the  choice  of  a  place  is  then 
made. 

A  congregation  in  Upper  Bermudian,  in  York  County,  petitioned  in 


FIFTIETH  CONVENTION,  1797.  291 

writing  and  also  orally  through  a  delegate,  that  it  might  be  served  by 
Mr.  Grob.     The  petition  was  granted. 

From  Taneytown,  in  Maryland,  and  several  congregations  united  with 
it,  delegates  (and  letters)  were  present,  asking  for  a  preacher.  Written 
answer  was  given  them,  that  they  might  apply  to  any  preacher  in  the 
Ministerium,  who  in  their  opinion  would  suit  them,  and  accept  their 
call. 

New  Holland,  in  Lancaster  County,  wrote  for  a  preacher.  The  Synod 
resolved,  that  Mr.  Jung  pay  a  visit  there. 

The  congregations  at  Falling  Spring  and  Scherer's,  in  Franklin 
County,  made  written  request  to  be  served  by  Mr.  Rothrauff.  Their 
request  was  granted. 

From  Jonestown  a  letter  was  handed  in,  which  described  the  con- 
dition of  the  congregation,  and  contained  a  petition  that  the  congrega- 
tion might  be  served  by  Mr.  Lochmann.  Mr.  AVilhelm  Kurtz,  who 
resides  in  this  congregation  and  apparently  has  some  friends  in  it,  also 
wrote,  and  asked  for  a  committee  of  preachers  to  investigate  the  dissen- 
sion existing  between  him  and  some  members  of  the  congregation.  The 
Synod  commissioned  Doctor  Muhlenberg  to  write  to  both  parties,  and 
enjoin  upon  them,  that  Mr.  Kurtz  be  permitted  to  preach  in  the  church 
until  the  next  Synodical  Meeting,  at  which  (because  it  will  be  held 
near  Jonestown),  the  request  made  by  both  parties  shall  be  investigated, 
and  if  possible  adjusted. 

A  congregational  committee  in  Frederickstown,  Maryland,  made  writ- 
ten request  that  the  congregation  at  that  place  might  be  served  by  Mr. 
Wildbahn.  This  request  was  granted  in  a  letter  sent  to  the  committee 
by  the  Synod. 

The  congregation  at  Reading  made  written  application  for  a  preacher. 
Resolved,  That  Mr.  Jung  also  pay  a  visit  there.  The  congregation  was 
informed  of  this  resolution  by  letter  of  the  Synod. 

The  reports  concerning  the  German  schools  were  handed  in.  Mr. 
Jung  reported,  that  at  present  there  was  a  good  school-teacher  at  Mar- 
tinsburg.  Mr.  Schaeffer,  that  the  congregation  at  Germantown  has  no 
teacher  at  present.  J.  Goering,  that  in  Yorktown  a  new  school-teacher 
was  received,  and  it  is  at  present  still  unknown  how  it  will  work.  Mr. 
Schroter,  thai  four  schools  are  at  present  being  kept  in  his  congrega- 
tions. Mr.  Melaheimer,  that  three  German  schools  are  being  kept  in 
his  congregations.  Mr.  Kurtz,  that  his  congregation  in  Baltimore 
jsea  one  German  and  one  English  school.  Mr.  Schmueker,  that 
there  are  four  schools  in  his  congregations.  Mr.  Lochmann,  that  there 
air  two  schools  in  his  congregations.  Mr.  Stauch  reports  three  Bummer 
and  live  winter  schools.     Mr.  Rothrauff,  that  in  his  congregations  two 


292 


DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 


winter  schools  are  kept.  Mr.  Griiber,  that  in  his  congregations  three 
German  schools  are  kept.  Mr.  Grob,  that  in  his  congregations  there 
are  three  German  schools.  Mr.  Spindler  reports  three  schools  in  his 
congregations.  Mr.  Herbst,  that  in  his  congregations  four  winter 
schools  are  kept.  The  others  were  still  in  the  same  condition  as  last 
year. 

The  following  reports  of  the  number  of  baptized,  confirmed,  com- 
municants and  deceased,  were  given  by  the  pastors. 

Bap-  Con-  Commu-  De- 

tized.  firmed.  nicants.      ceased. 

Mr.  Muhlenberg, 155  65  704  45 

"  Mdller, 26  —  29  10 

"  Jung, 80  —  142  34 

"  Schroeter, 172  148  994  14 

"  Carpenter, 81  14  196  8 

"  Schmucker, 154  17  234  45 

"  Lochmann, 125  37  598  21 

"  Stanch, 157  62  307  15 

«  Schaeffer, 117  26  258  48 

"  Rothrauff, 186     .          59  236  19 

"  Griiber, 138  51  344  16 

«  Grob, 145  83  413  14 

"  Spindler, 49  —  115  10 

«  Herbst, 131  54  185  14 

"  Geisenheiner,      93  68  503  20 

«  Lange, 134  16  159  10 

"  Kurtz, 125  28  251  44 

"  Hinkel, 113  —  —  8 

"  Schulze, 198  65  683  43 

The  morning  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

Monday,  June  12th,  p.m. 

After  the  prayer,  a  letter  from  Dr.  Kuntze  was  read.  His  Reverence 
informs  the  Synod  of  a  certain  Mr.  Ernst  who  became  a  Free  Mason, 
and  thereby  incurred  .  .  .  trouble  in  his  congregation. — Also  of  another 
minister  who  since  ordination  finds  his  salary  entirely  inadequate ;  and 
the  Doctor  wishes  that  he  be  provided  for  in  Pennsylvania.  A  third, 
named  Strebeck,  at  his  ordination  passed  a  better  examination  than  the 
Doctor  has  ever  seen  in  America ;  he  is  a  pupil  of  the  Doctor's.  This 
Mr.  Strebeck  after  signing  a  revers  became  ungrateful  toward  his 
teacher,  and  committed  the  sin? of  founding  an  English 


FIFTIETH  CONVENTION,  1797.  293 

Lutheran  Congregation  and  Church  in  New  York  ?  After  reading  this 
Letter,  the  Synodical  Meeting  passed  the  resolution,  that  persons  who 
formerly  were  united  with  it,  and  accepted  ordination  from  other  parties, 
are  no  members  of  this  Minister ium,  unless  formally  received  anew. 

As  it  is  certain  that  with  the  present  arrangement  of  Synod  mu- 
tual edification  had  to  be  neglected  (because  of  lack  of  time),  it  was 
Resolved,  that  in  future  the  preachers  shall  always  meet  two  days  before 
Sundav,  and  remain  together  two  days  after  Sunday,  at  the  place  where 
the  Synod  is  held. 

Since  a  considerable  number  of  the  United  Congregations  and  pastors 
are  on  the  west  side  of  the  Susquehanna,  and  the  unity  in  the  Pennsyl- 
vania Ministerium  must  necessarily  be  maintained,  it  was  resolved,  that 
the  Synodical  Meeting  be  held  west  of  the  Susquehanna  once  every  three 
years. 

The  choice  of  place  was  made,  and  it  was  decided  that  the  Synodical 
Meeting  for  next  year  shall  be  held  on  the  Festival  of  the  Trinity,  in 
Lebanon. 

The  delegates  were  dismissed,  and  the  Synodical  Meeting  was  closed 
with  prayer. 

This  evening  Mr.  Schaeffer  preached  in  the  Lutheran  church  and 
Mr.  llelmuth  in  Otterbein's. 


ACTS  OF  THE  MINISTERIAL  MEETING. 
Tuesday,  June  13th. 


A.M. 

A  delegate  was  present  from  Chambersburg  and  Shippensburg  with 
a  written  call  from  those  congregations  for  Mr.  Plitt.  The  Ministerium 
gave  Mr.  Plitt  some  written  questions,  with  the  directions  to  hand  in  a 
written  answer  in  the  afternoon. 

A  certain  Mr.  Mackard  petitioned  for  admission  into  the  Ministerium. 
Resolvi  d,  the  Ministerium  wishes  to  have  nothing  to  do  with  Mr.  Mack- 
ard, and  advises  him  to  return  to  Germany. 

Mr.  Heinrich  Geisenheiner  also  petitioned  to  be  admitted.  Written 
questions  were  given  to  him  also,  his  answers  in  writing  to  be  handed 
in  this  afternoon. 

Licentiate  Jager  had  sent  a  writing  of  excuse  to  the  "Brotherhood," 
in  which  the  young  man  quite  confidently  wishes  the  "  Brotherhood  " 


294  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

much  good.  But  an  Easton  paper  was  also  shown,  in  which  an  angry 
letter  was  printed  which  he  had  written  to  two  men  in  his  neighborhood. 
In  this  indiscreet  letter  he  had  aj^pealed  to  the  jurisdiction  of  the  Minis- 
terium,  and  thus  unnecessarily  mixed  up  the  Ministerium  in  the  matter. 
The  Ministerium  resolved  to  send  him  a  written  rebuke  and  admonition, 
which  was  also  prepared  and  signed  by  the  entire  Ministerium.  It  read 
as  follows  :  "  After  deliberation  in  the  Ministerium,  we  inform  you  that 

the  Ministerium  was  disgusted  with  your  improper  letter  to Beil 

and Scheimer,  which  was  read  before  it.    It  is  to  be  regretted  that 

you  wish  to  play  the  roll  of  the  suffering  Christian,  yea,  even  of  the 
hero  of  the  faith,  in  your  unchristian  letter,  while  you  do  not  seem  to 
understand  the  first  principles  of  Christian  character.  Do  you  not  know 
that  all  hypocrisy,  especially  also  open  hypocrisy,  is  an  abomination 
in  the  eyes  of  God?  Do  you  not  know  that  Jesus  did  not  revile  when 
He  was  reviled  ?  You  abuse,  revile  and  slander  where  you  are  not 
reviled,  and  yet  you  undertake  to  preach  His  Gospel !  We  exhort  you 
to  ask  God  to  grant  you  knowledge  of  yourself,  to  your  most  neces- 
sary improvement.  You  shall  and  must  show  fruits  of  improvement, 
or  the  Ministerium  cannot  retain  you  as  a  member.  The  President 
expects  a  written  declaration,  when  you  apply  for  your  license,  written 
and  signed  with  your  own  hand,  in  which  you  express  regret  of  your 
action,  and  earnestly  promise  improvement.  Without  such  declaration, 
the  license  you  have  had  shall  not  be  continued.  It  is  pity  for  you 
— you  might  be  useful,  if  you  could  watch  over  and  rule  your  corrupt 
self-love.  Be  converted,  poor  brother,  that  your  soul  may  be  saved  in 
the  day  of  Jesus  Christ." 

This  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

Tuesday,  June  13th,  p.m. 

Mr.  Plitt  and  Mr.  Geisenheiner  handed  in  their  answers.  They  were 
read.     Plitt's  were  considered  fairly  good. 

Now  the  question  was  discussed  as  to  the  admission  of  Mr.  Plitt,  and 
appointing  him  for  the  congregations  in  Chambersburg  and  Shippens- 
burg.  Chambersburg  had  formed  an  agreement  with  Licentiate  Roth- 
rauff,  and  he  had  been  empowered  by  the  officers  of  the  Ministerium  to 
serve  the  congregations  until  the  Synodical  Meeting.  Then  Mr.  Plitt 
arrived — and,  because  Mr.  Rothrauff  evidently  does  not  care  to  pay 
compliments  on  the  way  to  Heaven,  it  seems  that  he  did  not  possess 
sufficient  refinement  for  many  members.  He  was  set  aside  and  Mr. 
Plitt  was  taken  in  his  place.  This  tyro  of  a  preacher  began  with  ser- 
mons against  the  false  prophets.  But  since  little  is  known  in  that 
region  of  prophets,  not  to  say  anything  of  false  prophets,  the  matter  was 


FIFTIETH  CONVENTION,  1797.  295 

misunderstood,  and  gave  offence.  Mr.  Plitt  was  reproached  with  various 
sentences  and  phrases,  which  arc  reported  to  have  been  heard  in  his 
sermons ;  and  there  may  have  been  people  who  were  not  averse  to 
reckon  him,  witli  all  his  zeal,  among  the  false  prophets.  This  condition 
of  aftairs  caused  much  anxiety  to  the  Ministerium.  But  since  Mr.  Plitt 
is  generally  believed  to  be  a  capable  young  man  who  may  become  useful, 
after  much  deliberation  the  unanimous  decision  was  finally  reached  by 
the  Ministerium,  that  Mr.  Plitt  shall  be  authorized  by  the  Ministerium 
to  serve  as  catechist. — As  long  as  he  thus  serves  in  Chambersburg  and 
Shippensburg  he  shall  be  under  the  supervision  of  Mr.  Melsheimer. — 
He  was  advised,  however,  to  leave  those  congregations  in  case  he  should 
be  called  to  New  Holland  (where  Doctor  Muhlenberg  shall  propose  him). 
Then  he  shall  be  under  the  supervision  of  Dr.  Muhlenberg,  as  a  catechist. 

The  candidates  who  were  present  handed  in  their  diaries  and  sermons. 
All  those  who  had  sent  letters  of  excuse,  had  also  sent  their  diaries  and 
some  sermons,  except  Messrs.  Steck  and  Benz.  These  papers  were 
distributed  among  the  ordained  preachers,  who  examined  them  in  the 
presence  of  the  candidates.  They  made  very  good  reports  concerning 
them. 

This  afternoon  session  was  closed  with  prayer.  This  evening  Mr. 
Rothrauff  preached  in  the  Lutheran  Church  and  Mr.  Herbst  in  Otter- 
bein's. 

Wednesday,  June  14th,  a.m. 

Concerning  Mr.  Heinrich  Geisenheiner  it  was  Resolved,  That  he  might 
serve  some  congregations  under  the  supervision  of  his  brother,  on  the 
condition  that  he  shall  write  a  sermon  every  three  months,  and  (if  pos- 
sible), personally  bring  it  to  Philadelphia  to  Mr.  Helmuth  or  Mr. 
Schmidt  for  criticism. 

A  man,  named  Carl  Andreas  Kiernulff,  had  sent  Latin  writings 
which  were  full  of  mistakes.  He  wished,  in  case  the  Ministerium 
wranted  to  build  up  the  Kingdom  of  God,  to  have  Friedrichstown  or  a 
still  better  congregation.  According  to  his  manner  of  speaking,  to 
build  the  Kingdom  of  God  meant  to  help  him  to  a  rich  salary.  The 
Ministerium  resolved  to  have  nothing  at  all  to  do  with  this  man. 

Mis.  Liitge  had  heard  that  there  was  a  fund  to  help  preachers' 
widows.  She  wrote  and  asked  for  a  share,  beginning  at  the  time  when 
her  husband  died.     Mr.  Plitt  shall  inform  her  that  no  such  funds  exist. 

Mr.  Heinrich  Geisenheiner  received  a  license  as  catechist  for 
Welsch,  Weeping  and  Upper  Dublin  in  Montgomery  County. 

Mr.  RothxaufTs  license  was  extended  to  Falling  Spring  and  Scherer's. 
Mr.  Plitt  received  a  license  as  catechist  for  Chambersburg  and  Ship- 
pensburg.    The  license  of  the  remaining  candidates  were  renewed.     A 


296  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

statement  of  their  duties  was  read  to  the  candidates  and  catechists,  and 
they  bound  themselves  to  fulfill  them  by  giving  their  hands. 

The  Ministerium  closed  its  last  session  for  this  year  with  singing  of  a 
stanza  and  with  devout  prayer.  The  unfeigned  fraternal  love  which 
seemed  to  rule  among  the  pastors — the  remarkable  hospitality  of  the 
congregation  at  Baltimore — will,  it  is  hoped,  remain  a  blessed  memory. 

Jacob  Goering, 

P.  t.  Secretary. 


FIFTY-FIRST  CONVENTION. 

1798. 

(Friday,  June  1st,  a.m). 


PROTOCOL  OF  THE  SYNODICAL  MEETING. 
Held  in  Lebanon,  June  1-4,  a.d.  1798. 

At  9  o'clock  the  ministers  and  delegates  assembled  in  the  school- 
house  and  the  Synod  was  opened  with  prayer. 

1.  The  Ordained  Preachers  Present  were: 

Mr.  Wilkelm  Kurz,  from  Johnstown,  Pennsylvania. 

"     Christ.  Emanuel  Schulze,  from  Tulpehocken,  Pennsylvania. 

"     J.  C.   Henrich    Helmuth,  Th.D.,  from  Philadelphia,  Pennsyl- 
vania. 

Mr.  Friederich  Schmidt,  from  Philadelphia. 

"     Henrich  Muhlenberg,  Th.D.,  from  Lancaster,  Pennsylvania. 

"     Jacob  Goering,  from  Yorktown,  Pennsylvania. 

"     Heinrich  Moller,  from  Harrisburg,  Pennsylvania. 

"     Jacob  Buskirk,  from  Macunschy,  Pennsylvania. 

"     Friedrich  Schiifer,  from  Germantown,  Pennsylvania. 

"     Friederich  Wilhelm  Geisenhainer,  from   New  Goshenhoppen, 
Pennsylvania. 

Mr.  Daniel  Lehman,  from  Reading,  Pennsylvania. 

"     C.  Friederich  Wildbahu,  from  Reading,  Pennsylvania. 

M     Paul  Hinckel,  from  Shenandoah,  Virginia. 

2.  The  Licensed  Candidates  Present  were: 

Mr.  Joh.  Conrad  Jiiger,  from  William  Township. 

"     Joh.  Friederich  Obenhausen,  from  Alleminguo. 

"     George  Lochmann,  from  Lebanon. 

"     Joh   Andreas  Schulze,  from  Tulpehocken. 

"     George  Griiber,  from  Mitteltown,  York  County. 

"     Joh.  Gropp,  from  Mitteltown,  York  County. 

"     Johannes  Volz,  from  Rackenheim,  Virginia. 

297 


298  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Mr.  Johaun  George  Schniucker,  from  Hagerstown,  Maryland. 
"     Adolph  Spindler,  from  Augusta  County,  Virginia. 
"     Joh.  Michael  Steck,  from  Griinsburg. 
"     Friedrich  Wilhelni  Lange,  from  Berlin. 
"     Peter  Benz,  from  Mountjoy. 

3.  Catechists. 

Mr.  Johann  Plitt,  from  Chambersburg. 
"     Heinrich  Geisenhainer. 

4.  Applicants. 
Mr.  Joh.  Georg.  Roller. 

"     Wilhelm  Forster. 

5.    Delegates  with  Credentials  were  Present  : 

From  Tulpehocken Mr.  Martin  Walbom. 

"  Philadelphia "  Peter  Kraft. 

"  Lancaster "  Jacob  Stahl. 

"  York "  Martin  Weiser. 

"  Mittletown,  Maryland "  Johannes  Fassnacht. 

"  Lebanon "  Jacob  Stieb. 

"  Dover,  York  County "  Andreas  Stauch. 

"  Greensburg       "  Jacob  Stroh. 

"  New  Goshenhoppen "  Jacob  Pickel. 

6.   Absent  Ordained  Preachers  who  Sent  Letters  of  Excuse  : 

Mr.  Christian  Streit,  Daniel  Schroter,  Valentin  Melsheimer,  David 
Jung. 

7.  Absent  Licensed  Candidates  who  Sent  Written  Excuse  : 

Mr.  Johannes  Stauch,  Johann  Rothrauf,  Carl  Stock  [Steck],  Johann 
Herbst. 

As  officers,  were  elected :  Dr.  Muhlenberg,  President,  and  C.  Emanuel 
Schulze,  Secretary. 

The  various  papers  addressed  to  the  Synod  were  handed  in,  and  the 
Protocol  of  the  last  Synodical  Meeting  was  read. 

The  number  of  Baptized,  Confirmed,  Communicants,  and  Deceased 
during  the  last  year  was  reported  by  the  preachers: 

Com- 
Bap-      Con-      muni-      De- 
Congregations,  tized.    firmed,    cants,  ceased. 

Mr.  Wilhelm  Kurz .   .  As  formerly —       —         —       — 

"    Emanuel  Schulze  As  before 197     956       776       47 

Philadelphia    ....  As  before 307     107     1023    229 


y    262     116      292      42 


FIFTY-FIRST   CONVENTION,  1798.  299 

Cora- 
Bap-      Con-   muni-    De- 
Congregations,  tized.    firin'd.  cants,  ceus'd. 

Cohensy 56  —  45  — 

Mr.  Muhlenberg 197  52  G06  39 

"    Moller Langstaufer's  .    .    . 

Sehwaben  Criek  .    . 

Mahanai 

Leickeusthal,  besides 
the  former    .    .    . 

"    Schmucker  .    .    .  As  before .138  60  324  45 

«   Hinkel As  before 97  48  —        9 

"    Jager Springfield,  besides  the 

former 112  32  432  ? 

"    Frd.  Geisenhainer 136  111  768  53 

«   Schroter 200  86  944  26 

«    Sclnifer 55  21  201  33 

"    Obenhausen  .   .    .  Heidelberg,  besides  the 

former 87  71  1107  31 

"   Melsheimer 1"5  84  435  17 

«    Lochmann 141  28  494  59 

«    Graber.    .    .    .    . 120  87  487  20 

«    Grob 141  38  744  23 

«   Folz 147  93  353  10 

"   Spindler 35  21  130        5 

«   Steck 335  67  333  37 

«   pntt 66  25  47  14 

«    Rothrauf ••    ...  115  63  223  21 

«    Lange 180  113  279  16 

From  Johnstown  letters  were  handed  in,  in  which  they  requested 
that  they  might  be  given  assistance  in  their  sad  condition,  according  to 
the  promise  made  last  year.  Whereupon  it  was  resolved  to  refer  the 
matter  to  a  committee,  which  should  report  upon  it.  To  this  commit- 
tee were  chosen  Rev.  Mr.  Moller,  —  Kraft,  Stahl.  These  were 
charged  to  report  this  afternoon,  after  having  heard  the  case  from  both 
sides. 

From  Mr.  Jiiger's  congregations  a  letter  was  read,  in  which  they 
excused  themselves  for  not  sending  a  delegate  to  the  Synod.  Spring- 
Held  requested  to  be  served  by  Mr.  Jager.  Thereupon  it  was  resolved 
that  Mr.  Jager  might  accept  the  congregation  and  serve  it. 

The  forenoon  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 


300  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Friday,  June  1st,  p.m. 

Opened  -with  prayer. 

In  reference  to  a  communication  from  several  Reformed  members  in 
Dover,  York  County,  the  Synod  resolved :  The  Lutherans  in  Dover 
are  to  be  advised  to  permit  the  Reformed  to  allow  any  preacher  who 
is  a  member  of  the  Reformed  Ministerium,  or  is  recommended  by  a 
member  of  the  same,  to  hold  services  in  the  church,  with  the  under- 
standing that  the  same  liberty  be  granted  by  the  Reformed,  that  any 
preacher  who  is  a  member  of  the  Lutheran  Ministerium,  or  is  recom- 
mended by  a  member  of  the  same,  may  hold  service  in  the  church. 

Further,  that  this  agreement  be  confirmed  by  the  signatures  of  all 
the  members  of  both  congregations,  and  be  regarded  as  a  necessary 
addition  to  their  Constitution,  and,  on  the  other  hand,  that  the  4th  and 
5th  Articles  shall  be  altered  and  annulled. 

Further,  that  a  copy  of  this  shall  be  given  to  both  parties. 

The  committee  concerning  Johnstown  made  a  report,  in  which  they 
advised  that,  because  they  could  not  think  that  Rev.  Mr.  Kurz  would 
be  able  to  restore  union,  it  might  be  best  if  the  congregation,  after  it 
had  come  to  terms  with  Mr.  Jacinsky,  and  he  had  left  the  congrega- 
tion, would  apply  to  Rev.  Mr.  Lochmann  to  be  served  by  him.  Where- 
upon it  was  resolved  to  accept  this  proposition,  and  advise  Mr.  Loch- 
mann to  accept  this  congregation,  but  not  to  accept  Klopp's  Church. 

From  Penn's  Valley,  in  Northumberland  County,  came  a  paper,  in 
which  they  report  the  lamentable  depravity  of  their  preacher,  and 
request  to  have  their  district  supplied  with  another  preacher  who  has 
the  salvation  of  immortal  souls  at  heart.  They  were  answered  in  writ- 
ing, that  Mr.  Espich  was  no  longer  recognized  as  a  member  of  the 
Ministerium,  and  that  the  congregations  might  apply  to  any  preacher 
in  the  Ministerium  by  whom  they  wish  and  can  hope  to  be  served. 

The  congregations  at  Abbotstown  requested  that  they  might  be  served 
by  Mr.  Gropp.     Their  desire  was  granted. 

Hereupon  the  session  was  closed  with  prayer.  In  the  evening  Mr. 
Spindler  preached  on  Acts  3  :  19,  20. 

Saturday,  June  2,  a.m. 

Opened  with  prayer. 

A  letter  from  Abbotstown  was  handed  in,  in  which  several  members 
of  the  congregation  report,  that  after  Mr.  Schroter  had  consented  to 
serve  them  for  another  year,  the  church  was  closed  to  him.  A  member 
of  the  Ministerium  was  commissioned  to  request  Pastor  Schroter  to 
permit  Mr.  Gropp  to  serve  the  congregation,  with  which  all  members  of 
the  Ministerium  present  were  satisfied. 


FIFTY-FIRST  CONVENTION,  1798.  301 

Hereupon  Millerstown,  in  Macunschy,  was  appointed  as  the  place 
where  the  Sy nodical  Meeting  should  be  held  next  year,  and  that  the 
meeting  should  begin  on  the  Festival  of  the  Trinity;  and  that,  there- 
fore, the  resolution  made  at  Baltimore  to  be  present  on  the  Friday 
preceding  be  annulled.  The  delegates  were  then  dismissed  after  the 
session  was  closed  with  prayer. 


MINISTERIAL  SESSION. 

Several  hours  were  devoted  to  this  on  Saturday  forenoon. 

The  candidates  who  were  present  handed  in  their  licenses,  journals, 
and  sermons,  which  were  distributed  among  the  ordained  preachers  for 
examination. 

Indianfield,  Altgoshenhoppen  and  Tohecken  requested  that  Mr. 
Roller  be  received  into  the  Ministerium,  and  at  the  same  time  gave  a 
good  testimonial  respecting  his  life.  For  this  purpose  it  was  resolved 
to  examine  Mr.  Roller. 

Likewise,  several  congregations  in  Shenandoah  County  requested 
that  Mr.  AVilhelm  Forster  be  received  as  a  member,  that  he  might  fill 
the  office  of  pastor  among  them.  It  was  resolved  to  examine  him  also. 
A  conversation  was  had  with  him  before  the  afternoon  meeting,  and 
various  questions  put  to  him. 

As  request  was  also  made  from  Chambersburg  and  Shippenstown  that 
Mr.  Plitt  be  advanced  so  that  he  might  administer  the  Lord's  Supper, 
it  was  also  agreed  to  examine  him. 

Saturday,  p.m. 

After  Mr.  Plitt  and  Mr.  Roller  had  translated  several  verses  from 
the  Greek  Testament,  several  written  questions  were  handed  them  to  be 
answered.  After  a  few  hours  they  brought  in  their  answers,  and  also  a 
brief  disquisition  on  John  3  :  36. 

After  the  answers  had  been  examined,  the  session  was  closed  with 
prayer. 

In  the  evening,  Mr.  Schmucker,  from  Hagerstown,  preached  on 
Prov.  5 :  6. 

Sunday,  June  3d,  a.  m. 

Soon  after  9  o'clock,  the  preachers  and  the  delegates  of  the  several 
congregations  went  to  the  old  church,  and  thence  to  the  new  church  to 
consecrate  it. 

President  Muhlenberg,  having  with  a  solemn  prayer  at  the  altar  con- 
secrated this  church  to  be  a  house  of  salvation,  preached  the  consecra- 
tion sermon  on  Gal.  0  :  15,  16.  In  the  afternoon,  Dr.  Helmuth  preached 
on  Ps.  68 :  27 ;  in  the  evening,  P.  Schmidt  on  Gen.  4  :  4. 


302  DOCUMENTARY  HISTOEY. 

Monday,  June  4th. 

After  the  service,  at  which  P.  Goeriug  preached,  the  Ministerial  Meet- 
ing was  continued. 

P.  Wildbahn  announced,  that  he  had  given  up  the  Fried richstown 
congregation,  and  handed  in  a  letter  from  that  congregation,  in  which 
they  not  only  report  his  resignation,  and  that  they  have  written  to  P. 
Storck  in  Carolina,  in  order  to  have  him  serve  their  congregation,  but  also 
request  that  we  should  assist  them  by  visiting  and  preaching  for  them, 
until  their  congregation  is  again  supplied.  Thereupon  it  was  Resolved, 
to  report  to  them,  that  we  would  assist  them. 

The  Mandatorii  (Attorneys)  of  Director  Schulze  of  the  Orphan 
House  in  Halle  distributed  to  the  preachers  present,  and  the  widow  of 
the  deceased  Mr.  Liitge,  seventy-one  dollars  interest  of  the  Rodelheim 
legacy,  making  £26,  12  sh.,  6  d.  Of  this,  each  preacher  received  two 
dollars,  and  the  widow  of  Mr.  Liitge,  eleven  dollars. 

Hereupon,  the  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

Afternoon. 

Session  was  again  opened  with  prayer. 

Concerning  Mr.  Endress,  who  lives  in  Philadelphia  and  preaches  in 
Franlcford,  it  was  decided  that,  if  he  appears  before  Dr.  Muhlenberg, 
and  Messrs.  Schafer  and  Schulze  for  examination,  he  shall,  if  they  see 
fit,  be  granted  a  license. 

Thereupon  it  was  approved,  that  Mr.  Plitt  and  Mr.  Forster,  because 
of  their  remoteness  from  ordained  preachers,  shall  have  licenses  as  can- 
didates, and  Mr.  Roller  as  catechist,  under  the  supervision  of  Mr.  Fr. 
Geisenhainer. 

These  licenses  they  then  received  from  the  President,  after  they  had 
been  admonished  of  their  duties,  and  had  promised  to  fulfill  the  same. 
Mr.  Diehl  also  again  received  his  license.  After  the  licenses  of  the 
other  candidates  were  also  renewed,  the  Ministerial  Meeting  of  this  time 
was  ended  with  earnest  prayer  and  the  singing  of  a  stanza  of  a  hymn. 

In  the  evening,  Rev.  Mr.  Schafer,  from  Germantown,  preached. 

Henrich  Muhlenberg, 

P.  t.  President. 

Christ.  Emanuel  Schulze, 

P.  t.  Secretary. 


FIFTY-SECOND   CONVENTION. 

1799. 


PROTOCOL   OF   THE   SYNODICAL   MEETING. 
Held  in  Lancaster,  May  19-21,  Anno  Domini,  1799. 

On  the  day  preceding  May  17th,  a  number  of  the  members  of  the 
Rev.  Ministerium  arrived. 

On  May  18th,  the  Festival  of  the  Trinity,  they  went  to  church,  where 
Dr.  Helmuth  preached  an  edifying  sermon  on  I  Sam.  3:1.  In  the 
afternoon,  Emanuel  Schulze  preached  on  Heb.  12  :  14,  and  in  the  even- 
ing P.  Schmidt  on  Acts  3  :  37. 

On  Monday,  the  10th,  Pastor  Daniel  Kurz  preached  in  the  forenoon, 
on  I  Pet.  1 :  17.  After  the  sermon,  the  preachers  and  the  delegates  of 
the  congregations  went  to  the  school-house,  where  the  Synodical  Meet- 
ing was  begun  with  prayer. 

The  following  preachers  were  present  : 

1.  Emanuel  Schulze,  from  Tulpehocken. 

2.  Dr.  Helmuth, 

3.  Mr.  Friedrich  Schmidt, 

4.  "  Friederich  Wildbahn,  from  Rockland. 

5.  "  Henrich  Mciller,  from  Harrisburg. 

6.  "  Jacob  Goring,  from  Yorktown. 

7.  "  Daniel  Lehman,  from  Reading. 

8.  "  Daniel  Kurz,  from  Baltimore. 

9.  "  Friederich  Schafer,  from  Germantown. 

10.  "  Dr.  Henrich  Muhlenberg,  pastor  loci. 

11.  "  Valentine  Melsheimer,  from  Hanover. 

12.  "  Friedrich  Geisenhainer,  from  Goshenhoppen. 

13.  "  Job.  David  Jung,  from  Martinsburg. 

Licensed  Candidates. 

1.  Mr.  Joh.  Conrad  Jitger,  from  William's  Township. 

2.  "     George  Lochmann,  from  Lebanon. 

3.  "     Joh.  George  Schmucker,  from  Hagerstown. 

303 


>  from  Philadelphia. 


Lancaster,       I 


304  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

4.  Mr.  Joh.  Caspar  Diehl,  from  Jordan. 

5.  "  Peter  Benz,  from  Cocalico. 

6.  "  Joh.  Friedrich  Obenhausen,  from  Weisenburg. 

7.  "  Joh.  Andreas  Schulze,  from  Tulpehocken. 

8.  "  Johannes  Eothrauff,  from  Green  Castle. 

9.  "  Johannes  Herbst,  from  Carlisle. 
10.  "  Johannes  Phtt,  from  New  Holland. 

Catechists  Present. 

1.  Mr.  Heinrich  Gaisenhainer,  from  Whitepene. 

2.  "     Joh.  George  Roller,  from  Indianfield. 

Delegates  with  Credentials., 
From  Tulpehocken,  Mr.  Leonhardt  Immel. 

"      Philadel  hia  I  Mr'  Peter  Kraft* 

'  J     "    Conrad  Haass. 

Michael  Moser. 

Melchor  Rudesiehl.  , 

"      Yorktown,  Mr.  Peter  Diehl. 
"      Martinsburg,  Va.,  Mr.  Nicolaus  Streber. 
"      Lebanon,  Mr.  Henrich  Gilbert. 
"      Green  Castle,  Mr.  Johannes  Kramer. 
"      Carlisle,  Mr.  Martinus  Kitsch. 
"      New  Holland,  Peter  Diller. 

Absent  ordained  preachers,  who  excused  themselves : 

1.  Mr.  Ludwig  Voigt;  2.  Mr.  Wilhelm  Kurz,  Johnstown;  3.  Mr. 
Jacob  Buskirk,  Macunshy  ;  4.  Mr.  Christian  Streit ;  5.  Mr.  Wilhelm 
Carpenter,  Culpepper,  Virginia ;  6.  Mr.  Paul  Hinkel,  Shenandoah,  Vir- 
ginia ;  7.  Mr.  Daniel  Schroter,  without  excuse. 

Absence  licensed  candidates  who  excused  themselves  in  writing : 

1.  Johannes  Gropp,  from  Dover;  2.  Carl  Stock,  Picket  Mountain, 

without  excuse ;  3.  Wilhelm  Lange,  Berlin,  without  excuse ;  4.  

Stauch,  without  excuse. 

As  officers  were  elected :  Dr.  Muhlenberg,  President ;  and  C.  Im- 
manuel  Schulze,  Secretary. 

Thereupon  the  papers  addressed  to  the  Synod  were  handed  in,  and 
the  Protocol  of  the  last  Synodical  Meeting  was  read. 

The  preachers  handed  in  the  number  of  baptized,  confirmed,  com- 
municants and  deceased  in  their  congregations,  as  follows : 


FIFTY-SECOND  CONVENTION,   1799.  305 


Emanuel  Schulze,  as-  i 

'  As  before   ....    195         132         929         42 


Con-  Communi-   De- 
Congregations.        Baptisms,  finned.  cants,    ceased. 
IS-  > 

sisted  by  his  sou  .  j 

Philadelphia —  —  —  — 

II.  Miihienberg 178  48  533  37 

Schafer 82  21  185  31 

Moller 10  congregations  .  158  22  390  17 

Fr.  Geisenhainer 104  42  432  26 

Jiiger 127  104  629  16 

Lochmann 163  37  631  54 

Sehmucker 150  40  198  30 

Dill Jordan,  Junians, 


andA1'l      36  28         138  5 

y  ...  J 


61  63        549  7 

lndianneld 

Jung 109  30  172  28 

Benz  [Pens] —  —  —  — 

Obenhausen 105  91  1305  43 

Rothrauff 127  53  305  14 

Herbst 198  54  268  26 

Plitt Holland  and  Al- 
legheny 

Steck 162  45  340  15 

Hr.  Geisenhainer 24  —  94  6 

Holler —  —  —  — 

Btauch 181  103  200  23 

Carpenter 93  28  204  23 

Kurz 86  42  256  37 

The  morning  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

Monday,  May  19th,  p.m. 

In  the  afternoon  a  communication  from  Penns  and  Brosche  Valley 
was  read  ;  they  asked  for  a  preacher ;  whereupon  it  was  resolved,  that 
they  shall  before  long  be  visited  by  Rev.  Mr.  Melsheimer,  whose  advice 
they  may  follow. 

The  people  from  Marck's  requested  that  they  be  permitted  to  call  Mr. 
Gropp  as  their  preacher;  thereupon  it  was  decided  to  answer  them  : 
that,  as  the  Synodical  Meeting  shall  next  time  be  held  on  the  west  side 
of  the  Susquehanna,  the  affairs  of  the  congregations  at  Abbotstown  and 
of  Marck's  be  postponed  until  that  time;  in  the  meantime  the  members 
of  said  congregations  shall  be  at  liberty  in  ease  of  funerals  and  other 
cases  of  real  necessity,  to  apply  to  the  neighboring  preachers 

Upon  the  request  of  the  Carlisle  congregation,  that  they  might  be 


306  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY 

served  more  frequently  by  Mr.  Herbst,  and  that  be  be  therefore  advised 
to  give  up  the  so-called  York  congregation,  it  was,  resolved,  that  it  be 
left  to  Mr.  Herbst  to  do  as  be  considered  best. 

The  two  congregations  of  Scherers  and  Falling  Spring,  wbicb  desire  to 
be  served  by  Mr.  Rothrauff,  received  the  consent  of  the  Synod  in  this 
matter. 

Likewise  the  desire  of  the  "  Druckenliinder,"  in  Nazareth  Township, 
who  requested  to  be  served  by  Mr.  Jager,  was  granted. 

Since  P.  Voigt  announced  that  because  of  his  advancing  age  he 
desired  to  lay  down  his  office,  and  that  two  delegates  from  Pikesland 
would  request  to  be  served  by  another  preacher,  it  was  resolved,  to 
answer  the  delegates,  that  the  Synod  has  so  much  confidence  in  its  old 
and  worthy  member,  Voigt,  that  they  would  do  well  to  use  his  advice  in 
this  matter,  and  let  him  propose  a  preacher  to  them. 

Hereupon  McAllister  [Carlisle  stricken  out]  was  appointed  as  the 
place  where  the  Synodical  Meeting  shall  be  held  next  year,  and  that 
it  shall  begin  on  Trinity  Sunday. 

The  Synodical  Meeting  was  closed  with  prayer. 


MINISTERIAL  MEETING. 


This  was  begun  with  prayer  on  Tuesday  morning  at  9  o'clock. 

As  Mr.  Roller  and  Henri ch  Gaisenhainer  made  request  for  a  full 
license,  it  was  resolved  to  examine  them.  After  they  had  been  examined 
their  desire  was  granted. 

Hereupon  a  letter,  in  which  Mr.  Sparke  requests  to  be  admitted  into 
the  Ministerium,  was  read.  The  decision  was  reached  that  Mr.  Ludolph 
Sparke  be  treated  in  a  friendly  manner  by  us  ;  but  that  he  needs  to  be 
further  examined  as  to  his  life  before  being  admitted. 

The  papers  which  Mr.  Jasinsky  brought  along  with  reference  to  his 
reception  into  the  Ministerium  were  also  read.  After  the  question  had 
been  put  in  this  matter,  the  majority  were  agreed  in  this  :  That,  if  he 
present  himself  for  examination  and  renounce  the  ordination  which  he 
had  wrongly  received,  a  full  license  shall  be  given  him. 

Concerning  Mr.  Flors,  who  requested  to  be  received,  it  was  resolved, 
after  he  had  been  examined  by  Dr.  Helmuth  and  Pastor  Goering,  that 
he  be  granted  a  full  license  as  candidate. 

The  candidates  and  catechists  handed  in  their  licenses,  sermons  and 
diaries.  These  sermons  were  read  in  part  one  after  the  other  (Stiick- 
weise)  and  admonitions  given  according  to  circumstances. 


FIFTY-SECOND  CONVENTION,   1799.  307 

Dr.  Helmuth  and  Pastor  Schmidt  as  mandatorii  (attorneys)  of  Direc- 
tor Schulze  in  Halle  in  reference  to  the  Kodelheim  legacy,  distributed 
.U4<!  17s.  6d.  among  twenty-five  preachers,  so  that  each  received  five 
dollars.  And  to  Mr.  Wilhelm  Kurz,  because  of  his  need,  £7  15s.  was 
sent  from  the  same  legacy. 

This  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

Tuesday,  May  21st,  p.  m. 

After  prayer  the  licenses  of  the  candidates  were  renewed. 

Messrs.  Boiler,  Gaisenhainer  and  Jasinsky  were  admonished  of  their 
duties,  and  after  they  had  promised  to  fulfill  them,  their  licenses  were 
handed  to  them. 

After  discussing  various  cases  of  conscience  in  pastoral  work,  the 
present  Ministerial  Meeting  was  closed  with  an  earnest  prayer  by  the 
President,  and  the  singing  of  a  stanza  of  a  hymn. 

In  the  evening  Mr.  Friederich  Geisenhainer  preached. 

Chr.  Emanuel  Schulze, 

P.  t.  Secretary. 


FIFTY-THIRD   CONVENTION. 

1800. 


PROTOCOL  OF  THE  SYNODICAL  MEETING. 

Heed  at  McAllister,  June  9th  and  10th,  1800. 

Most  of  the  members  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Ministerium  as- 
sembled in  McAllister  [Hanover,  York  Co.]  on  June  7th. 

June  8th. 
Being  the  Festival  of  the  Holy  Trinity,  one  part  went  to  the  Evan- 
gelical Lutheran  Church,  where  President  Muhlenberg  preached  in  the 
forenoon  on  II  Tim.  4 :  1-4  ;  in  the  afternoon  Mr.  Schmucker  preached. 
The  other  part  went  to  the  Reformed  Church,  where  Pastor  Kurz,  from 
Baltimore,  preached  in  the  forenoon  and  Mr.  Stauch  in  the  afternoon. 

Juke  9th,  a.  m. 
The  ministers  and  delegates  present  assembled  in  Mr.  Melsheimer's 
parsonage,  and  the  Synod  was  opened  with  prayer. 

1.  The  ordained  preachers  present  were  : 

Dr.  Muhlenberg,  from  Lancaster. 

Mr.  Emanuel  Schulze,  from  Tulpehocken. 

"     Friedrich  Wildbahn,  from  Merz  Church,  Amity  Township 
and  Spyse  Church. 
Mr.  Friedrich  Melzheimer,  from  McAllister. 

"     Daniel  Schroter,  from  McAllister. 

"     David  Jung,  from  Martinsburg,  in  Virginia. 

"     Christian  Streit,  from  Millerstown,  in  Virginia. 

"     "Wilhelm  Carpenter,  from  Culpepper,  in  Virginia. 

"     Paul  Hinkel,  from  Stenton,  in  Virginia. 

"     Daniel  Kurz,  from  Baltimore. 

2.  Candidates  present  were  : 

Mr.  George  Lochmann,  from  Lebanon. 
''     Joh.  George  Schmucker,  from  Hagerstown,  Maryland. 
"     Joh.  Conrad  Jager,  from  Williams  Township. 
308 


FIFTY-THIRD  CONVENTION,  1800.  309 

Mr.  Andreas  Schulze,  from  Tulpehocken. 

"  Joh.  Rothrauf,  from  Greencastle. 

"  Joh.  Herbst,  from  Carlisle. 

"  Job.  Plitt,  from  New  Holland. 

"  Joh.  Stauch,  from  Redstone. 

"  Joh.  Grob,  Paradiso  Township. 

"  Adolph  Spindler,  in  Virginia. 

"  Friederich  Jasinsky,  from  Chambersburg. 

"  George  Graber,  from  Mitteltown,  [Md.] 

"  Wilhelm  Forster,  from  Hacksbill. 

"  Joh.  Folz,  from  Ilackenhcim. 

"  George  Flobr,  Read  Creek. 

3.  Delegates  with  credentials  were  present : 

From  Lancaster,  Michael  Moser. 

"      Tulpehocken,  Joh.  Nicolaus  Killmer. 

"      McAllister,  George  Carl. 
Regarding  Mr.  Schroter,  Philip  Wohlfarth. 
From  Stenton,  Conrad  Reinecker. 

"     Lebanon,  George  Remold. 

"     Williams  Township,  Caspar  Ritter. 

"     Hagerstown,  Carl  Gelwicks. 

"     Greencastle,  Dewald  Meng. 

"     Carlisle,  Joh.  Graber. 

"     Paradise  Township,  George  Michael  Miller. 

"     Chambersburg,  Joh.  Heck. 

"     Mitteltown,  Dr.  Henrich  Gallman. 

"     Hacksbill,  George  Prinz. 

4.  Absent  ordained  preachers  who  sent  excuses :  Dr.  Helmuth,  Mr. 
Fr.  Schmidt,  from  Philadelphia  ;  Mr.  Schafer,  from  Germantown  ;  Mr. 
Henrich  Mdller,  from  Harrisburg ;  Mr.  Jacob  Goring,  from  York- 
town,  siik. 

Without  excuse:  Mr.  Lehman,  in  Reading;  Mr.  Jacob  Buskirk; 
Mr.  Fried.  Geisenhainer. 

5.  Absent  Catechists. — "Wilhelm  Lange,  excused ;  Joh.  George 
Roller,  excused  :  Dill,  satisfactory  excuse;  Peter  Pens,  excused  ;  Hein- 
rich  Geisenhainer,  not  excused  ;  Job.  Fried.  Obenhausen,  not  excused. 

As  officers,  tbe  following  were  again  elected  :  Dr.  Muhlenberg,  Presi- 
dent, and  C.  Emanuel  Schulze,  Secretary. 

The  papers  addressed  to  the  Synod  were  handed  in,  and  the  Pro- 
tocol of  last  year's  meeting  was  read. 


310  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

The  number  of  baptized,  confirmed,  communicants  and  deceased  was 
reported  by  the  preachers. 

Baptized.  Confirmed.  Communicants.  Deceased. 

Dr.  Muhlenberg 169  73  535  43 

Emanuel  Schulze,  together  with  |  m  g2  m 

his  son ) 

Lochmann1 227  72  591  40 

Schmucker 120  40  243  17 

Jung 70  26  146  29 

Carpenter 109  13  147  9 

Jager 148  62  652  30 

Eothrauf 165  36  363  14 

Herbst 225  95  298  18 

Plitt 83  74  471  13 

Stauch 116  —  266  14 

Grob 92  32  307  24 

Spindler 108  34  180  — 

Lange 99  75  236  7 

Jasinsky 122  47  287  19 

Graeber 131  72  591  40 

Foster,  two  years 120  103  570  — 

Fols,  two  years 162  46  424  12 

Flohr 89  54  189  8 

Roller 71  49  355  30 

[No  statistics  from]  Revs.  Helmuth  and  Schmidt,  Schafer,  Melshei- 
mer,  Schroter,  Streit,  Kurz,  F.  Geisenhainer,  Obenhausen,  Penn's. 

Hereupon  the  papers  from  Penn's  Valley  and  five  other  congrega- 
tions were  read ;  they  asked  for  a  preacher,  and  promised  to  make  up 
£140  for  his  salary.  The  delegates  were  informed  that  answer  would 
be  made  them  this  afternoon  or  to-morrow  morning. 

Further,  a  letter  was  read  from  Marck's  congregation,  which  requests 
to  be  served.  The  motion  was  made,  that,  since  the  congregation  has 
been  left  by  its  former  preacher,  it  be  permitted  to  take  Mr.  Grob  as 
its  preacher. 

Besides  these,  the  letter  of  the  Abbotstown  congregations  was  read ; 
they  desire  to  be  served  by  Mr.  Grob. 

Whereupon  it  was  resolved :  If  any  agreement  can  be  made  concern- 
ing Mr.  Schroter  and  these  congregations,  it  shall  be  done  by  a  com- 
mittee. 

Mr.  Schmidt,  from  Easttown,  reported  that  they  were  satisfied  with 
their  preacher. 

1  As  last  year,  seven  congregations. 


FIFTY-THIRD  CONVENTION,  1767.  311 

Conrad  Richmann,  who  resides  not  far  from  York  town,  petitioned 
to  be  received  into  the  Ministerium.  He  was  instructed  to  appear  at 
the  Ministerial  Meeting. 

Wilhelm  Illgen,  who  lias  thus  far  heen  schoolmaster  in  the  Cohensie 
congregation,  requested  to  he  received  into  the  Ministerium,  brought 
testimonials  concerning  his  character  and  life,  aud  was  directed  to  re- 
port at  the  Ministerial  Meeting. 

From  Albenual  a  communication  was  also  read,  in  which  they  re- 
quest that  Mr.  Fols,  a  brother  of  the  candidate,  be  granted  permission 
to  baptize  children. 

Through  a  committee  on  improving  the  state  of  affairs  in  the  Abbots- 
town  congregation  it  was  resolved,  1,  That  it  is  very  wrong  and  un- 
christian arbitrarily  to  close  the  church  to  any  preacher  of  the  Gospel, 
and  therefore  the  conduct  against  Rev.  Schroter,  in  Abbotstown,  is  dis- 
approved ;  2.  But  since,  as  it  seems,  the  congregations  cannot  be  united 
unless  they  hold  another  free  election  of  a  preacher,  such  free  election 
for  any  preacher  in  the  Ministerium  is  recommended  to  the  regular 
congregations,  without  injury  to  the  union  which  has  existed  for  years 
between  the  Conewago  congregation  and  Abbotstown. 

The  choice  of  the  place  and  time  for  the  Synodical  Meeting  next 
year  was  then  made.  Philadelphia,  and  the  Festival  of  the  Trinity, 
were  chosen. 

Hereupon  the  delegates  were  dismissed,  and  the  Synodical  Meeting 
closed  with  prayer. 


MINISTERIAL  MEETING. 


This  was  begun  with  prayer,  on  Monday  afternoon. 

Mr.  Sebastian  Folz  and  Conrad  Richmann  reported,  to  be  received 
by  the  Ministerium  as  catechists.  A  passage  was  given  to  Sebastian 
Folz  to  be  written  out  (ein  Spruch  wegen  des  Schreibens  vorgelegt), 
and  a  sermon  written  by  ('.  Richmann  was  read. 

The  candidates  handed  in  their  sermons  and  diaries. 

Revs.  Mr.  Melshi  imer,  Kurz  and  Jung  were  appointed  to  examine 
Messrs.  Illgen  and  Miller. 

The  young  ministers  were  advised  in  reference  to  the  conduct  of  their 
office. 

Thereupon  the  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 


312  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Evening,  7-10  o'clock. 
The  sermons  handed  in  by  the  candidates  were  gone  over. 

Tuesday  Morning,  8-12. 

The  sermons  were  handed  back  to  the  candidates,  with  the  necessary 
annotations  and  instructions. 

A  sermon  by  Mr.  Plitt,  as  also  one  sent  by  Mr.  Roller,  was  read. 
The  sermons  by  Mr.  Lochmann,  Jager,  Schmucker  and  Schulze  gave 
satisfaction. 

Dr.  Kunze's  letter,  concerning  Mr.  "Wigand,  was  read,  and,  resolved, 
that  Dr.  Muhlenberg  shall  answer  it. 

Concerning  Rev.  Mr.  Jung,  it  was  resolved,  that,  on  his  journey  home- 
ward, he  should  stop  in  Danytown,  and  that  he  be  recommended  to  that 
congregation  as  a  suitable  person  to  serve  it. 

Afternoon,  soon  after  2  o'clock. 

Service  was  held  in  the  Lutheran  Church.  After  Mr.  Jager  had 
preached  a  sermon,  the  four  candidates,  Lochmann,  Jager,  Schmucker 
and  Schulze,  received  ordination. 

Hereupon  the  pastor  loci,  offered  prayer,  thanked  the  members  of 
the  Ministerium  for  the  kindness  shown  to  the  people  of  McAllister, 
and  commended  them  to  the  gracious  protection  of  our  faithful  Shep- 
herd, Jesus. 

That  the  above  all  happened  thus,  we  witness. 

C.  Emanuel  Schulze, 

P.  t.  Secretary. 


FIFTY-FOURTH   CONVENTION. 

1801. 

(Sunday,  May  31st.) 


SYNODICAL  MEETING. 
Held  in  Philadelphia,  May  31,  and  June  1  and  2,  a.d.  1801. 

In  the  forenoon  Dr.  Muhlenberg  preached  in  Zion's  Church,  and 
Mr.  Obenhauss  in  St.  Michael's.  In  the  afternoon  Pastor  Lochmann 
preached  in  Zion's,  and  Mr.  Jasinsky  in  St.  Michael's.  In  the  evening 
Dr.  Kuuze  preached  in  Zion. 

Monday,  June  1,  a.m. 

At  nine  o'clock  the  ministers  and  delegates  assembled  (in  Zion's 
Church)  and  the  Synod  was  opened  with  prayer.  Ministers  present 
were : 

1.  Ordained  Preachers. 

Mr.  Emanuel  Schulze,  Senior  Ministerii,  from  Tulpehocken,  Penna. 

Henrich  Helmuth,  Theol.  Dr.,  )  „        _,  M    ,  ,  . . 
_,.,.,„,.,  f  from  Philadelphia. 

b  nednch  Schmidt,  ) 

Johann  C.  Kunze,  Th.  Dr.,  from  New  York. 

Henrich  Muhlenberg,  Th.  Dr.,  from  Lancaster. 

Jacob  Goring,  from  Yorktown,  Pennsylvania. 

Daniel  Kurz,  from  Baltimore,  Maryland. 

Daniel  Lehman,  from  Misillum,  Pennsylvania. 

Henrich  Moller,  from  Harrisburg,  Pennsylvania. 

Friedrich  I).  Schafer,  from  Germantown,  Pennsylvania. 

George  Lochmann,  from  Lebanon,  Pennsylvania. 

Conrad  Jager,  from  "Williams  Township,  Pennsylvania. 

Friedrich  Geisenheiner,  from  Falckner  Schwaum,  Pennsylvania. 

2.  Licensed  Candidates. 

Mr.  Christian  Endress,  from  Philadelphia. 

"     Joli.  G.  Roller,  from  Indianfield,  Pennsylvania. 

"    Ileinrich  Geisenheiner,  from  Chester  County,  Pennsylvania. 

"    Peter  Benz,  from  Cocalico. 

313 


314  DOCUMENTARY   HISTORY. 

Mr.  Johann  Herbst,  from  Carlisle,  Pennsylvania. 
"    Friedricli  Obenhauss,  from  Weisenburg,  Pennsylvania. 
"    Willi.  Forster,  from  Shenandoah,  Virginia. 
"    Friedrich  Jasinsky,  from  Chambersburg,  Pennsylvania. 
"    Carl  Stock,  from  Sunbury,  Pennsylvania. 

3.  Delegates  with  Written  Credentials. 

Mr.  Peter  Kraft  and  Conrad  Haas,  from  Philadelphia. 

"  Johann  Altimns,  from  Germantown. 

"  P  Gartner,  from  Yorktown. 

"  Jacob  Spang,  from  Tulpehocken. 

"  Peter  Saurwein,  from  Baltimore. 

"  J.  Imboden,  from  Lebanon. 

"  Casper  Ritter,  from  Williams  Township. 

"  Philip  Konig,  from  Pikeland,  Chester  County. 

As  officers  were  elected :  Pastor  Schmidt,  President ;  Fr.  D. 
Schafer,  Secretary. 

Absent  Ministers  were  :  1 .  Those  who  excused  themselves — Friedrich 
V.  Melsheimer,  orally  and  in  writing;  Joh.  Andr.  Schulze,  orally; 
Wilhelm  Ilgen,  orally ;  Johannes  Rothrauf,  in  writing,  because  of 
the  great  distance ;  Daniel  Schroder,  in  writing  ;  Johann  Grob,  because 

of  sickness  ;  George  Flohr,  in  writing ;    Paul  Hinckel, ;  Johann 

Plitt,  because  of  the  consecration  of  a  Reformed  Church. 

2.  Who  did  not  excuse  themselves  :  C.  Friedrich  Wildbahn,  Caspar 
Dill,  Christian  Streit,  Adolph  Spindler,  David  Jung,  Wilhelm  Car- 
penter, George  Schmucker,  Sebastian  Foltz,  George  Griiber,  Friedrich 
Lange,  Johann  Stauch,  Joh.  Michael  Steck. 

The  various  papers  which  were  received  were  handed  in,  and  the 
Protocol  of  the  last  Synodical  Meeting  was  read. 

Then  those  members  who  were  absent  last  time  without  sufficient 
excuse  were  admonished  by  the  President.    * 

Letters  from  the  congregation  in  New  Hanover  and  that  in  New- 
goshenhoppen  were  read ;  they  testify  to  their  satisfaction  with  their 
pastor,  and  beg  to  be  excused  for  not  sending  a  delegate. 

A  similar  letter  from  Mr.  Roller's  congregations  on  the  Tohick  and 
Indianfield. 

A  letter  from  four  congregations  in  Westmoreland  County,  Penn- 
sylvania, was  read  ;  they  testify  to  their  satisfaction  with  Mr.  Steck, 
and  beg  that  his  absence  be  excused,  because  of  sickliness. 

Reports  of  special  meetings  were  not  received. 

1.  A  letter  from  the  congregation  (Zion's  Church)  in  Shenandoah 


Ill TY-1 OIKTII    CONVENTION,   1801.  315 

County, Virginia,  was  read,  in  which  they  ask  for  a  faithful  minister; 
also  promising  gladly  to  contribute  towards  his  support,  besides  giving 
him  a  free  dwelling  and  forty  acres  of  land  for  his  use.  (This  free  and 
voluntary  promise  saves  much  time  which  would  have  heen  lost,  if  the 
Church  Council  would  first  have  to  find  out  what  could  he  done)  (wegen 
dea  sondirens  ihres  Kirchenraths). 

Hereupon  it  was  resolved,  that  said  congregation  at  the  Zion's 
Church  he  advised  to  use  the  services  of  Mr.  Forster. 

This  resolution  was  written  out  in  the  name  of  the  Ministerium,  with 
the  hearty  wish  for  the  welfare  (Seelcnheil)  of  the  congregation. 

2.  A  letter  from  the  congregation  in  Easton  [Penna.]  was  read,  in 
which  they  deplore  the  decline  of  their  congregation,  and  express  the 
sincere  desire  to  he  supplied  with  a  pastor  from  the  Ministerium  ;  espe- 
cially since  their  present  preacher,  Mr.  August  Schmidt  has  resigned, 
and  will  leave  by  the  end  of  November. 

The  Ministerium  deliberated  upon  this  matter.  Mr.  Abraham  Bach- 
man  ii,  a  delegate  from  Easton,  orally  confirmed  the  contents  of  the 
letter,  so  also  Rev.  A  Schmidt,  in  reference  to  his  resignation,  which  is 
to  take  effect  at  the  end  of  November. 

It  was  believed  that  Easton  (near  which  are  two  or  three  vacant  con- 
gregations) could  in  time  become  one  of  the  main  congregations  of  our 
Evangelical  Church.     It  was  then 

Resolved,  That  the  congregation  at  Easton  be  advised  to  apply  to  any 
preacher  of  the  Ministerium,  and  if  they  desired,  call  him  as  their 
pastor. 

This  resolution  was  put  into  writing  to  be  sent  to  the  said  congregation. 

The  forenoon  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

Monday,  June  1st,  p.m. 
Opened  with  prayer. 

3.  A  letter  from  the  congregation  in  Huntingdon,  Pennsylvania,  was 
read,  in  which  they  ask  for  a  pastor,  stating  that  they  would  have  done 
this  two  years  ago,  had  not  Mr.  Stock  come  to  them  with  recommenda- 
tions from  a  member  of  the  Ministerium,  and  they  then  received  him  as 
pastor;  but  as  he  has  now  left  them,  they  ask  for  a  faithful,  worthy 
pastor,  for  whose  support  they  and  the  neighboring  congregations  will 
provide.  The  Ministerium  commits  these  congregations  to  the  care  of 
the  Great  Shepherd,  and  wishes  that  they  could  be  supplied  with  a  faith- 
ful pastor.      [This  writing,  No.  3,  was  answered.] 

4.  A  letter  from  the  Zion's  church  in  Vincent  was  read.  This 
congregation  and  St.  Peter's  church  in  Pikeland  were  served  by  P. 
Vbigt  as  their  common  pastor,  almost  until  his  death,  and  since  the 


316  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

church  property  and  parsonage  belong  to  these  two  congregations,  the 
faithful  members  desire  that  they  might  together  be  served  by  a  peace- 
loving,  prudent  and  unblamable  pastor,  such  as  Mr.  Voigt  was.  Here- 
upon it  was  resolved,  that  Dr.  Helmuth  and  Dr.  Muhlenberg,  as  preachers, 
and  Messrs.  Kraft,  Altimus  and  Bachman,  as  delegates,  be  a  committee 
to  investigate  the  affairs  of  both  congregations,  and  report. 

After  investigation  and  consideration  of  the  condition  of  Zion's  and 
St.  Peter's  churches  in  Chester  County,  the  committee  made  a  proposi- 
tion, which  was  unanimously  approved. 

The  Ministerium  proposes  that  both  congregations  have  several 
of  the  preachers  of  the  Ministerium  preach  fur  them,  and  then  accord- 
ing to  the  charter  of  the  congregations,  after  due  notice,  arrange  an 
election  in  common,  and  in  peace  and  unity  accepting  any  one  of  those 
rightly  elected  as  their  pastor. 

This  proposition,  together  with  an  admonition  to  love  and  concord, 
was  put  into  writing  and  sent  to  said  congregations. 

5.  A  letter  from  the  congregation  in  Reading  was  read,  and  there- 
upon resolved,  that  the  congregation  be  advised  to  apply  to  any  preacher 
of  the  Ministerium,  and,  if  found  satisfactory,  call  him  to  be  their  pastor. 

6.  A  letter  from  the  congregations  at  Emmetstown  and  on  Thomas' 
Creek,  was  read,  and  thereupon  resolved,  that  Dr.  Muhlenberg  prepare 
the  answer  to  them ;  which  was  done. 

7.  A  letter  from  Middletown,  Elizabethtown  and  Maytown  was  read, 
in  which  they  ask  for  a  preacher. 

8.  A  letter  from  Martinsburg,  Shepherdsburg  and  Schmidtfield  was 
read,  in  which  they  request  that  Mr.  Jasinsky  might  be  appointed  their 
preacher. 

This  session  was  closed  with  prayer  at  six  o'clock. 

In  the  evening  Friedrich  D.  Schafer  preached  in  St.  Michael's. 

Tuesday,  June  2d,  a.m. 

At  9  o'clock  the  session  was  opened  with  prayer  in  Zion's  church. 
Concerning  No.  8,  it  was  resolved,  that  Mr.  Jasinsky  accept  (if  he 
desire)  the  call  to  said  congregations. 

9.  Two  letters  concerning  Mr.  Jasinsky.  The  one  from  the  Church 
Council  in  Chambersburg,  saying  that  they  had  been  compelled  to  dis- 
miss Mr.  Jasinsky,  because  they  could  no  longer  collect  the  salary  pro- 
mised him.  The  other,  from  the  Church  Council  at  Shippensburg,  of 
similar  contents,  with  the  addition  that  the  separation  from  the  Scherer's 
and  Fallen  Spring  congregations  is  the  reason  for  Mr.  Jasinsky's 
dismissal. 

Resolved,  The  Ministerium  considers  it  best  if  Chambersburg,  Ship- 


FIFTY-FOURTH   CONVENTION,  1801.  317 

pensburg  and  Scherer's  congregations  unite  and  remain  united.  In  case 
the  present  preacher,  Jasinsky,  be  not  received  in  the  three  congrega- 
tions, the  Miniaterium  advises  that  the  congregations  call  an  entirely 
new  preacher. 

This  resolution  shall  be  communicated  to  the  congregations  and  to 
both  preachers  Rothrauff  and  Jasinsky. 

10.  A  letter  from  the  Church  Council  of  the  congregation  in  Ma- 
cungie,  in  which  the  Ministerium  is  requested  to  approve  the  election  of 
Mr.  Obenhausen  as  preacher. 

R  ohed,  That  Mr.  Obenhausen  be  granted  permission  to  accept  the 
congregation  in  Macungie,  until  a  change  be  considered  advisable. 

11.  A  letter  from  Fantz  Valley  was  read,  in  which  they  request  that 
Mr.  Ilerbst  might  hold  service  for  them  every  four  weeks. 

12.  A  letter  from  Christ  church,  in  Beaver  Township,  Salem's- 
Raus,  Sclinsgrove,  Mohr's  and  Bauerman's  churches  was  read,  request- 
ing that  Mr.  Ilerbst  be  appointed  pastor  for  said  congregations,  if  he 
consents. 

Resolved,  The  Synod  grants  Mr.  Herbst  permission  to  accept  the 
said  Christ  Church  and  the  congregations  united  with  it — excepting 
however,  the  Derstown  and  Dreisbach  Churches,  and  serve  them  as 
teacher  and  pastor,  if  he  desired. 

The  reports  of  the  bajriized,  etc,  as  handed  in  are  as  follows: 

Bap-        Con-       Comrau-     De- 
tized.      firmed,      nicants.  ceased. 

^rr-  Helmuth,  1  from  Philadelphia,  .    .    .304       101         800       187 
.Air.  Schmidt,  j  * 

"  Schulze,  Sen.,  from  Tulpehocken,  .    .  216  179  1103  41 

Dr.  Muhlenberg,  from  Lancaster,  .    .    .    .  135  59  450  35 

Mr.  Goring,  from  Yorktown, —  —  —  — 

"     Moller,  from  Harrisburg, 102  21  152  27 

"     Kurz,  from  Baltimore, 102  45  198  101 

"  Schafer,  from  Germantown,  ....  103  27  214  45 

"     Lehman,  from  Mesillum, —  —  —  — 

"     Lochmann,  from  Lebanon 137  80  748  68 

"  Fr.  Geisenheiner,  from  New  Hanover,  78  47  409  26 

"  Jiiger,  from  Williams  Township,     .    .126  115  589  27 

"  ObenhauM,'  from  Grunitsch,  etc.,   .    .312  99  1407  41 

"    Roller,  from  Tohickon, 83  64  314  23 

"  II.  Geisenheiner,  from  Chester  Co.,  .    36  26  106  10 

"     Forster,  from  Shenandoah, 43  40  184  — 

«     Ilerbst,  from  Carlisle, 192  81  298  28 

"  Endress,  Ffurt.  [Frankfurt],  etc,      .    96  6  103  — 


318  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Bap-       Con-       Commu-     De- 
tized.    firmed,      nicaiits.  ceased 

Mr.  Jasinsky,  from  Chanibersburg,  ...    86  21  112  -  25 

"     Bens,  from  Cocalico, —  —  —  — 

"     Schroeder, 160  76  660  15 

"     Rothrauff,  from  Green  Castle,    ...  101  42  273  20 

"     Lange,  from  Berlin, 170  98  201  35 

"     G.  Flohr,  from  Wythe,  Virginia  (four 

schools), 108  28  86  12 

"     Steg,  [Steck]  from  Greensburg,     .    .  174  77  928  17 

"  from  Welchtown, —  —  —  — 

"     Moller,  from  Friedrichsstadt,     ...    71  28  68  24 

"     Melsheimer, —  —  —  — 

"     Wildbahn, —  —  —  — 

Hereupon  the  choice  of  the  place  and  time,  where  and  when  the  next 
annual  Synodical  Meeting  shall  be  held,  was  made.  The  votes  were 
unanimous  for  Reading,  and  as  usual  on  the  Festival  of  the  Trinity. 

The  delegates  were  dismissed  and  the  Synodical  Meeting  closed  with 
prayer. 

MINISTERIAL  MEETING, 

Tuesday,  June  2d,  1801. 

The  session  was  opened  with  prayer  at  3  o'clock  in  the  afternoon  in 
Zion's  Church. 

The  candidates  handed  in  their  journals  and  sermons. 

The  President  named  several  ordained  preachers  as  a  committee  to 
examine  the  writings  handed  in. 

A  man  named  Daniel  Schafer  presented  himself,  and  requested  to  be 
received  into  the  Ministerium.  An  essay  written  by  him  was  read,  and 
several  questions  were  put  to  him.  He  stated  that  he  was  ignorant  of 
the  ancient  languages,  but  that  he  had  been  able  to  speak  with  the 
inhabitants  of  the  harbors  into  which  he  had  come,  in  several  modern 
languages,  e.  g.,  Spanish,  Portuguese,  etc.,  etc. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Daniel  Schafer,  who  has  applied  to  the  Minis- 
terium for  admission  to  the  pastoral  office,  and  has  presented  an  essay 
as  evidence  of  his  qualifications,  be  advised  to  apply  to  one  of  the  ordained 
preachers,  and  use  his  instructions  for  some  time,  and  that  he  shall  then 
be  permitted  to  present  himself  again  to  the  Ministerium  for  examination. 

This  resolution  was  communicated  to  him  in  writing. 

The  Rev.  Pastor  Emanuel  Schulz  was  then  elected  Senior'  of 
the  Ministerium. 


FIFTY-FOURTH   CONVENTION,  1801.  319 

Lettuis  directed  to  the  Ministerial  Meeting  were  as  follows: 

One  from  Mr.  Paul  Hinckel,  from  Guilford  County,  North  Carolina, 
in  which  he  reports,  how  lie  found  people  in  great  ignorance, — the  form 
of  Christianity  was  still  to  be  found, — he  hopes  that  he  shall  not  work 
in  vain,  especially  with  the  youth. 

A  letter  from  the  widow  of  the  late  Mr.  C.  Liitge,  in  which  she 
asks  fir  assistance.  Pastor  Philip  Stock,  of  Chambersburg,  in  a  letter 
to  a  member  of  the  Ministerium  (P.  Goring),  gives  a  good  testimonial 
concerning  her  life ;  but  also  states  that  she  is  in  need. 

Mr.  llgen's  congregations,  Penn's  Valley,  Brush,  Lang's,  Jungman's, 
Early's  and  Meetinghouse,  in  a  letter,  express  their  heartfelt  gratitude, 
that  the  Ministerium  gave  them  Mr.  Ugen,  whom  they  praise  very 
highly  for  his  integrity. 

The  letters  concerning  Rev.  Mr.  Schroder  remained  unread,  as  also  a 
letter  from  Mr.  Hong,  who  brings  nine  charges  against  Mr.  Herbst. 

After  the  Ministerium  had  spent  most  of  this  afternoon  in  considera- 
tion and  deliberation  as  to  whether  Special  or  District  Conferences  were 
to  be  held,  and  was  convinced  of  their  necessity  and  usefulness  for  the 
advancement  of  God's  Kingdom  and  our  Evangelical  Church,  it  was 
finally  decided  and  resolved,  to  divide  our  United  Congregations  into 
the  following  districts,  in  which  a  special  meeting  shall  be  held  at  least 
once  a  year  at  the  places  herein  appointed. 

Resolved,  That  the  congregations  here  mentioned  and  those  united 
with  them,  are  divided  into  the  following  districts: 

Districts : 

1.  Philadelphia,  Germantown,  Frankfurt,  Cohenszy,  North  Wales, 
New  Hanover,  Pottsgrove,  Vincent,  Old  and  New  Goshenhoppeu. 

2.  Easton,  Macungie,  Saucon,  "Whitehead,  Mesillum,  Weisenburg. 

3.  Lancaster,  New  Holland,  Manheim,  Reading,  Tulpehocken,  Leb- 
anon and  Ilarrisburg. 

4.  Yorktown,  McAllister's,  Taneytown,  Paradise  and  Carlisle. 

5.  Baltimore,  Fried richsstadt,  Hagerstown,  Green  Castle  and  Cham- 
bersburg. 

6.  Western  District. 

7.  Virginia. 

Iiexolved,  That  the  members  of  the  First  District  hold  their  Special 
Meeting  on  Thursday,  October  29th,  at  Germantown;  the  members  of 
the  Second  District  shall  hold  their  Special  Meeting  on  the  first  Wed- 
nesday  in  November;  that  the  members  of  the  Third  District  hold 
their  Special  Meeting  in  Lancaster,  on  the  first  Wednesday  in  October; 
that  the  members  of  the  Fourth  District  hold  their  Special  Meeting 
.  .  .  that  the  members  of  the  Fifth  District  hold  their  Special  Meeting 


320  DOCUMENTARY  HISTOEY. 

in  Baltimore,  on  the  second  Wednesday  in  October ;  that  the  members 
of  the  Sixth  District  .  .  .  that  the  members  from  Virginia  .  .  . 

About  6  o'clock  the  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

In  the  evening,  Pastor  Goring,  from  Yorktown,  preached  in  Zion's 
Church,  on  I  Pet.  4:  18. 

Wednesday,  June  3rd,  a.m. 

At  9  o'clock  the  session  was  again  opened  with  prayer  in  Zion's 
Church. 

The  sermons  of  the  candidates  were  read  in  part,  and  accompanied 
with  remarks  for  the  improvement  of  the  understanding  and  the  hearts 
of  the  writers.  Mr.  C.  Obenhauss  had  neglected  (without  sufficient 
reason)  to  give  the  President  of  the  Ministerium  a  sermon.  Mr.  Poller's 
was  criticised,  and  he  was  told  that  if  he  continued  to  be  diligent  he 
might  become  a  useful  member.  Several  passages  in  Mr.  Forster's  jour- 
nal were  criticised.  Mr.  H.  Geisenheiner,  Mr.  Herbst  and  Mr.  Jasin- 
sky  read  parts  of  their  sermons,  which  were  criticised.  Candidate 
Endres  read  a  well-prepared  sermon,  which  shows  sufficiently  that  he 
exerts  himself  to  grow  in  the  knowledge  of  divine  truth,  and  that  he  is 
able,  also,  to  communicate  it  to  others. 

The  licenses  of  the  following  candidates  were  renewed  until  the  Synod 
of  1802 :  Messrs.  Endres,  Lange,  Berlin,  Somerset  County ;  Mr. 
Jasinsky's,  Mr.  Steg's,  Greensburg ;  Mr.  Grob's,  Paradise ;  Mr.  Oben- 
hausen's,  Mr.  Herbst' s,  Carlisle  ;  Mr.  Plitt's,  New  Holland  ;  Mr.  Stock's, 
Sunsbury,  Catawissa  and  Folmer's  Church  ;  Mr.  Fosters's,  Mr.  Roller's, 
Indianfield  ;  Mr.   H.  Geisenheiner's,  Nicen's  Church  [Nice]. 

Concerning  Mr.  Endres,  it  was  unanimously 

Resolved,  That  Candidate  Endres,  after  being  examined,  shall  be  or- 
dained at  the  next  Synodical  Meeting  in  Reading,  if  at  that  time  he  is 
serving  congregations  united  with  us. 

Rev.  Mr.  Schmidt,  from  Easton,  made  application  to  be  received  into 
the  Ministerium.  His  application  was  considered  with  a  good  deal  of 
hesitation. 

At  1  o'clock  the  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

p.m.,  3  o'clock. 

Opened  with  prayer. 

Mr.  Schmidt,  of  Easton,  was  assured  of  the  good  feeling  of  the  Min- 
isterium towards  him,  and  he  was  told  that  because  of  the  small  number 
of  ordained  preachers  still  present,  it  was  not  considered  advisable  to 
decide  concerning  his  admission.  The  Ministerium  took  up  a  free  will 
offering,  which  was  given,  partly  to  Mr.  August  Schmidt,  partly  to  Mr. 
Carl  Stock. 


FIFTY-FOURTH  CONVENTION,    1801.  321 

[Because  of  certain  circumstances,  Mr.  Carl  Stock's  license  was  once 
more  renewed.] 

The  President  handed  their  licenses  to  the  candidates  present,  as  the 
Ministerial  Order,  Cap.  7,  §  VII,  2,  requires,  and  admonished  them  not 
to  leave  the  congregations  entrusted  to  them  without  the  knowledge  of 
the  Ministerium. 

They  promised  in  the  presence  of  God  hy  words  and  the  giving  of 
their  hand  to  fulfill  their  duties. 

The  mandatorii  (attorneys)  of  the  Director,  Mr. ,  of  the 

Orphan  House  in  Halle,  distributed  to  the  preachers  present  of  the  in- 
terest of  the  Rodelheim  Legacy,  five  dollars  to  each. 

The  meeting  was  closed  with  prayer  and  the  singing  of  a  hymn. 

May  the  Great  Shepherd  bless  all  these  transactions  to  the  glory  of 
His  name  and  the  increase  of  Christian  piety. 

In  the  evening  Pastor  Moller,  of  Harrisburg,  preached. 

The  congregation  in  Philadelphia  was  thanked  in  the  name  of  the 
Ministerium  for  its  kind  reception  and  entertainment.  But  for  the 
members  of  the  Ministerium  the  blessing  of  God  upon  their  labors  in 
the  Lord's  vineyard  [was  asked]. 

Joh.  Friedrich  Sciimidt, 
i  P.  t.  President. 


21 


Friedrich  D.  Schafer, 

P.  t.  Secretary. 


FIFTY-FIFTH  CONVENTION. 

1802. 
(Sunday,  June  13th.) 


ACTS  OF  THE  SYNODICAL  MEETING. 

Held  at  Beading,  June  13th,  14th,  15th  and  16th,  in  the  Year  of 

Christ,  1802. 

In  the  forenoon  President  Schmidt  preached  in  the  Evangelical 
Lutheran  Church,  on  I  Cor.  1:  23,  24;  in  the  afternoon,  candidate 
Moeller,  on  Luke  15 :  2 ;  in  the  evening,  candidate  Endress,  on  Is.  53 : 1-3. 

Monday,  June  14th,  a.m. 
At  9  o'clock  the  ministers  and  delegates  assembled  in  the  church, 
and  the  Synod  was  opened  with  prayer. 
Ministers  present  were : 

1.  Ordained   Preachers. 
Mr.  Emanuel  Schulz,  Senior  Minister,  from  Tulpehocken. 
J.  Friedrich  Schmidt,  j  frQm  pMadelphia. 

H.  Christian  Helmuth,  Th.D.,  J 
Heinrich  Muhlenberg,  Th.D.,  from  Lancaster. 
Conrad  Fr.  Wildbahn,  from  Guinet,  Montgomery  County,  Penn- 
sylvania. 
Daniel  Schroter,  from  Hanover,  Pennsylvania. 
Daniel  Lehman,  from  Misillum. 

Fried.  Valentin  Melsheimer,  from  Hanover,  Pennsylvania. 
Daniel  Kurz,  from  Baltimore. 
Friedrich  D.  Schafer,  from  Germantown. 
David  Jung,  from  Daneytown,  Maryland. 
Friedrich  Geisenheiner,  from  New  Hanover. 
George  Lochmann,  from  Lebanon. 
J.  George  Schmucker,  from  Hagerstown. 
Andreas  Schulz,  from  Womelsflorf. 

Conrad  Jiiger,  from  Hanover  Township,  Northampton  County. 
322 


FIFTY  FIFTH  CONVENTION,  1802.  323 

2.  Licensed  Candidates  Present. 
Mr.  Christian  Endress,  from  Easton. 
"    Caspar  Diehl,  from  Whitehall,  Northampton  County. 
"    J.  Georg  Roller,  from  Indienfield. 

"    Wilhelm  Forster,  from  Rockingham,  Shenandoah,  Virginia. 
"    Johannes  Foltz,  from  Rockingham,  Virginia, 
"    Johannes  Grob,  from  Paradise  Township,  York  County. 
"    Johannes  Rothrauf,  from  Greencastle,  Pennsylvania. 
"    Johannes  Ilerbst,  from  Mittelburg,  " 

"    Job.  Friedrich  Obenbauss,  from  Weissenburg, " 
"    Heinricb  Geiseuheimer,  from  Chester  County,  " 
"    Wilhelm  Ilgen,  from  Northumberland  County,  " 
"    Friedrich  Jasinsky,  from  Shepherdsburg,  Virginia. 
"    Carl  Stock,  from  Sunbury,  Pennsylvania. 

"    Johannes   Plitt,  from   New   Holland,   Pennsylvania,   and    Mr. 
Moeller. 

Delegates  with  Credentials. 
Mr.  Georg  A.  Becker,  j  from  phi]adel  hia- 

"  G.  Bantleon,  J  * 

"  Peter  Brua,  from  Tulpehocken. 

"  Peter  Buss,  from  Mr.  Schroter's  four  congregations. 

"  Heinricb  Beck,  from  Germantowu. 

"  Johannes  Reichert,  from  New  Hanover. 

"  C.  Hofman,  from  Lebanon. 

"  Joh.  Weis,  from  Hagerstown. 

"  Caspar  Ritter,  from  Hanover  Township. 

"  Friedrich  Geinmer,  from  Easton. 

"  Christian  Schmid,  from  Indienfield. 

"  Adam  Reger,  from  Mittelburg. 

"  Georg  Diery,  from  Weisen's  [Nice]  Church,  Chester  County. 

"  Peter  Schweitzer,  from  New  Holland. 

Two  delegates  from  this  place  (Reading,  which  is  at  present  without 
a  pastor)  were  present.  On  motion,  it  was  Resolved,  that  one  delegate 
from  Reading  shall  have  a  seat  and  vote  in  our  Synodical  Meeting. 

Delegates  from  Reading,  Messrs.  Friedrich  Schmidt  and  Johannes 
Strobbecker. 

The  election  of  officers  waa  held  ;  Pastor  Schmidt  was  elected  Presi- 
dent, and  Friedrich  D.  Schafer,  Secretary. 

Hereupon  ft»e  papers  were  handed  in,  some  twenty  in  number. 

Absent  ministers  who  sent  written  excuse: — Mr.  Heinricb  Moller 


324  DOCUMENTAKY  HISTOKY. 

[the  original  name  here  seems  to  have  been  Christian  Streit,  which  was 
erased  and  changed] ;  Mr.  Jacob  Goring ;  Mr.  Georg  Flohr,  Wythe 
County,  Virginia ;  Mr.  Georg  Graber,  Mitteltown,  Maryland ;  Mr.  Johan- 
nes Stauch,  Fayette  County ;  Mr.  Michael  Steck,  Greensburg,  Westmore- 
land County,  Pennsylvania ;  Mr.  Wilhelm  Zimmerman  (Carpenter) ; 
Adolph  Spindler ;  Mr.  Wilhelm  Lange  ;  Peter  Benz  (is  sick). 

The  congregation  at  Lancaster  wrote  to  excuse  itself,  because  it  sent 
no  delegate  to  this  year's  Synodical  Meeting,  but  wished  God's  blessing 
upon  its  deliberations. 

Similar  letters  were  also  received  by  the  Synod  from  other  congre- 
gations. 

No.  14.  P.  Moeller's  letter  of  excuse  and  farewell  was  read.  He 
very  much  desires  that  Harrisburg  (which,  through  his  removal,  is  left 
without  a  preacher)  may  soon  be  supplied  again. 

The  Protocol  of  the  last  Synodical  Meeting  was  read.  Reports  of 
Special  Meetings  were  handed  in.  The  Protocol  of  the  Special  Con- 
ference of  the  First  District,  held  at  Germantown ;  further  of  the  Second, 

held in  Northampton  ;  of  the  Third,  held  at  Tulpehocken  ;  of  the 

Fourth ;  of  the  Fifth,  of  which  Pastor  Kurz  made  verbal  report. 

Paper  No.  1  was  read.  The  congregations  at  Maytown,  Middletown 
and  Elizabethtown  ask  for  a  pastor.  The  Synod  deliberated  as  to  how 
these  congregations  might  be  assisted ;  but  no  formal  decision  was 
reached. 

No.  2.     A  letter  from  Emmetstown  was  read. 

The  forenoon  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

Monday,  June  14th,  p.m.,  at  3  o'clock. 

Opened  with  prayer. 

No.  1.  In  reference  to  Emmetstown  the  Synodical  Meeting  Resolved, 
that  the  said  congregation  be  only  recommended  to  follow  the  advice 
given  by  the  Special  Conference. 

Concerning  Harrisburg,  it  was  Resolved,  The  congregation  at  Harris- 
burg, and  those  united  with  it,  are  advised  to  apply  to  any  preacher  of 
the  Ministerium,  and  call  him  as  their  pastor,  and  that  they  be  informed 
that  Rev.  Jung  and  Candidate  Geisenheiner  would  visit  them  and 
preach  for  them. 

Concerning  No.  1,  it  was  also  Resolved,  that  to  the  congregation  at 
Manheim,  and  those  united  with  it,  the  same  advice  be  given  as  to  the 
congregation  at  Harrisburg. 

Copies  of  the  above  resolutions  were  dispatched  to  the  respective 
congregations.     Concerning 


FIFTY-FIFTH  CONVENTION,  1802.  325 

No.  3.  Resolved,  That  the  Synod  considers  it  advisable  to  leave  the 
affairs  of  Zion'a  church  in  Pikeland  in  statu  quo, this  time. 

No.  4.  Concerning  Schuster's  church:  Resolved,  That  it  be  left  to 
Mr.  Grob  to  treat  the  matter  (concerning  the  church  mentioned  and 
No.  13,  concerning  Sattler's)  as  he  found  best. 

No.  7.  A  letter  from  Shepherdstown  was  read,  and  (No.  17)  one 
from  Fried riehtown,  which  refers  to  the  former. 

No.  10.  Testimonials  for  Mr  Stock  from  Catawissa  and  Muncy  were 

read. 

No.  11.  A  letter  from  Scherer's  congregation  in  Letterkenny  Town- 
ship, Franklin  County?  was  read. 

No.  22.  Concerning  Chambersburg,  it  was  Resolved,  that  Candidate 
Moeller  shall  preach  a  trial  sermon  in  Chambersburg  and  Shippensburg. 

No.  13.  A  letter  from  Huntingdon  was  read,  in  which  they  asked 
urgently  for  a  preacher. 

No.  15  was  read,  in  which  the  congregation  in  Braunschweig  Town- 
ship petitions  that  a  certain  Mr.  Daniel  George  Schafer  be  received. 

At  6  o'clock  the  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

In  the  evening  Mr.  Jasinsky  preached  on  Matt.  7  :  13,  14. 

Tuesday,  June  15tii. 

The  forenoon  session  was  opened  with  prayer  by  Sen.  Schulze.  Since 
President  Schmidt  could  not  be  present  owing  to  indisposition,  Dr.  Hel- 
muth  was  chosen  President  p.  t. 

Regarding  No.  13,  it  was  Resolved,  That  if  any  member  of  the  Minis- 
terium  wishes  to  visit  those  parts,  one  or  other. of  the  officers  of  the 
Ministerium  give  him  a  few  lines;  and  if  no  one  can  pay  them  a  visit, 
that  a  fraternal  answer  be  sent  them  in  writing. 

Concerning  No.  3,  the  decision  reached  was  approved  by  the  dele- 
gates of  Zion's  church  in  Chester  County. 

The  preachers  handed  in  the  number  of  baptized,  confirmed,  com- 
municants and  deceased  in  the  congregations,  as  follows : 

Con-      Communi-        De- 
Nam.- of  the  Preachers.      Congregations.  Baptisms,    finned.       cants.        ceased.  Schools 

Dr.  Helmuth  |        .Philadelphia.    307       108        781        168        — 

Mr.  Schmidt  J  ' 

Dr.  Miihlenberg  .    .  Lancaster .   .    185         66        551  37  1 

^Ch;ilzt>:f";     I  .   .  6  163        62        870  35        - 

Andr.  Schulze  ) 

Goring —  —        —  —  —        — 

Km-/. Baltimore.   .    165        23        273  86  1 

Lehman 7  142         78         626  69  7 


326 


DOCUMENTARY   HISTORY. 


Con-     Communi-        De- 
Names  of  the  Preachers.      Congregations.  Baptisms,    firmed,      cants.        ceased.  Schools 

Melsheimer  ....            5  105  75  324  13  4 

Schafer Germantown.  129  18  223  49  1 

Jung 4  42  70  179  12  — 

Lochman 7  179  65  736  32  6 

Schroder 4  160  80  490  19  2 

Fr.  Geisenheiner .    .            3  125  58  536  36  — 

Schmucker  ....  5  j  ^  j      54         450  27  4 

Jager 4  125  72  631  50  4 

Endress(in6months)  6  146  124  396  17  7 

Kothrauf 7  107  70  334  16  5 

Forster 4  70  —  283  —  5 

J.  Foltz 4  96  62  196  16  4 

Diehl 4  86  34  497  34  2 

Plitt 3  79  45  354  21  3 

Obenhauss 7  407  129  1417  51  5 

Koller 3  141  92  682  39  4 

Grob 5  73  55  73  7  4 

Graber —  114  35  248  10  2 

H.  Geisenheiner  .    .  2  46  37  116  16  1 

Herbst 7  120  84  313  36  4 

GeorgFlohr    ...  —  131  38  184  8  — 

M.  Stock 4  1098  31  4035  18  — 

Jasinsky 3  69  10  62  6  1 

Stock 3  87  56  87  3  — 

Moller  (now  without 

a  charge)  ....  2  134  38  127  28  2 

It  was  then  resolved,  that  each  minister  give  a  brief  account  of  the 
internal  and  external  condition  of  his  congregation.  In  accordance 
with  this  resolution,  the  pastors  present  reported  verbally  concerning 
their  respective  congregations ;  the  Synodical  Meeting  was  moved  to 
thank  and  praise  the  Lord,  whose  grace  we  have  until  now  experienced, 
and  for  the  continuation  and  increase  of  which  we  are  in  duty  bound 
humbly  to  pray  to  Him. 

In  closing  the  Synodical  Meeting,  it  was  decided  by  ballot,  that  the 
next  Synodical  Meeting  should  be  held  at  Baltimore  on  the  Festival  of 
the  Trinity. 

Finally  a  prayer  was  offered  and  a  stanza  sung. 


FIFTY-FIFTH  CONVENTION,   1802.  327 

MINISTERIAL  MEETING. 

Tuesday,  June  15tii. 


3  o'clock  p.m. 

Opened  with  prayer.  President  Schmidt  had,  to  some  extent,  recov- 
ered from  his  indisposition,  so  that  he  could  again  attend  the  session. 

Several  resolutions  concerning  Friedrichstown  and  Reading  were 
drawn  up  and  passed.  For  the  latter  place  Mr.  Jasinsky  was  proposed 
and  recommended,  for  the  former  Mr.  Grob.  But  the  delegate  from 
Friedrichstown  was  unwilling  to  accept  the  decision  of  the  Ministerium 
as  to  their  congregation,  as  they  expected  to  receive  Mr.  Jasinsky  as  their 
pastor,  for  whom  they  had  made  written  request. 

APPLICANTS. 

1.  Mr.  Schmidt,  from  Easton.  2.  Georg  Buttler,  with  testimonials. 
3.  Friedrich  Sanno,  from  Seller's  [Leller's],  Tinicum,  and  Springfield 
congregations,  with  testimonials  [No.  18].  4.  Daniel  George  Schiifer,  in 
accordance  with  a  resolution  of  last  year,  and  this  time  with  testimonials 
[No.  15].     5.  Andreas  Almes. 

Then  the  Protocol  of  the  Special  Conference  (of  the  York  District) 
was  read,  for  the  sake  of  investigating  the  charges  against  Rev.  Schroter. 

Several  other  papers  were  read  [No.  5] ;  one  from  Adam  Mentz,  who 
based  his  testimony  upon  the  declaration  of  his  wife,  who  died  nine  years 
ago  ;  the  second  signed  by  a  woman  who  likewise  bases  her  testimony  on 
the  declaration  of  the  deceased  lady  just  mentioned.  A  third  of  the 
same  contents,  based  on  the  same  declaration.  A  fourth  signed  by  one 
Michael  Ulz,  most  probably  to  accuse  him  of  gossiping,  or  whatever  one 
might  call  it.  The  fifth,  an  affidavit  signed  by  Carl  Schwartz,  who  some 
years  ago  argued  with  Mr.  Schroter  on  Scripture,  and  especially  of  the 
article  of  the  descent  of  Christ  into  hell ;  this  theological  discussion  was 
of  so  much  value,  that  the  said  C.  8.  has  lately  sworn  that  Mr.  Schroter 
had  said,  "that  there  was  no  hell." 

Then  the  testimonials  from  four  congregations  of  Mr.  Schroter  in 
defence  of  his  innocence  were  read.  There  were,  however,  several 
papers  with  names  attached,  which  seemed  strange  to  the  Ministerium  ; 
but  an  explanation  was  made  by  Mr.  Schroter,  which,  however,  was  not 
satisfactory  to  the  Ministerium. 

Then  Mr.  BchrOter'ia  former  defense  was  read.  On  motion  it  was  Re- 
solved that  Mr.  Schroter,  as  the  accused,  and  his  accusers,  withdraw  for 


328  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

a  moment,  that  the  Ministerium  might  deliberate  concerning  the  ac- 
cusations and  the  defense.  The  Ministerium  did  not  yet  reach  a  deci- 
sion in  this  matter. 

At  six  o'clock  the  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

In  the  evening  Rev.  Mr.  Lochman  preached  in  English  on  I  Cor. 
2:  11. 

Wednesday,  June  16th. 

In  the  forenoon,  at  9  o'clock,  the  session  was  opened  with  prayer. 
The  affairs  of  the  Friedrichstown  congregation  again  came  up.  In  ref- 
erence to  them  it  was  Resolved  to  send  to  them  the  decisions  concerning 
them  and  the  Red.  congregation,  together  with  a  friendly  letter  of  ex- 
planation— but  the  delegate  refused  to  accept  this  letter  and  the  resolu- 
tions. 

Mr.  Schroter's  affairs  were  then  discussed,  and  it  was 

Resolved,  That  the  Ministerium  regards  Mr.  D.  Schroter  unworthy 
of  being  a  member  of  the  Ministerium  until  fruits  meet  for  repentance 
be  shown,  in  which  case  the  Ministerium  will  not  hesitate  to  receive 
him  again  with  open  arms. 

Concerning  a  certain  Mr.  Mockenhaupt,  it  was  resolved  that  Mr. 
Mockenhaupt's  license  be  not  renewed. 

No.  9.  A  petition  from  Schoolmaster  Benedict  Neidlinger,  in  Weisen- 
burg,  was  read.  This  man  is  in  one  of  Mr.  Obenhauss'  congregations ; 
therefore  that  gentleman  was  advised  to  attend  to  it,  that  the  township 
in  which  Mr.  Niedlinger  lives  take  care  of  its  poor. 

Several  very  favorable  testimonials  concerning  Mr.  Obenhauss  were 
read.  Rev.  Messrs.  Lehman,  Jager  and  Diehl  brought  up  several 
points,  concerning  which  Mr.  Obenhauss  gave  satisfactory  explanations. 
They  appeared  mostly  to  rest  on  misunderstandings. 

Candidate  Endress  expressed  the  desire  that  his  ordination  (which 
was  resolved  upon  last  year  already)  be  postponed  another  year. 

The  resolution  of  the  Ministerium  was  read  to  Mr.  Schroter. 

Candidate  Diehl  requested  to  be  ordained. 

The  candidates  handed  in  their  sermons  and  journals ;  also  their 
licenses. 

Candidate  Endress,  journal,  1  sermon,  et  license. 
«         Roller, 
"         Geisenheiner,  diarium,  1  sermon,  et  license. 

Diehl, 

Herbst,  "         1 

"         Obenhauss,  1  " 

"         Forster,  " 


FIFTY-FIFTH  CONVENTION,  1802.  329 

Candidate  Jusinsky,  diurium,  1  sermon,  et  license. 


Stock, 

1 

Kothrauf, 

1 

Plitt, 

1 

J.  Foltz, 

Grob, 

1 

Ilgen, 

Griiber, 

1 

The  ordained  preachers  were  divided  into  committees  to  examine  the 
papers  of  the  candidates  [according  to  the  constitution.    C.  7,  §  5], 

It  was  moved  and  Resolved  that  the  Ministerium  permit  Mr.  Jasiusky 
to  accept  a  call  to  Friedrichstown  (A  copy  of  this  resolution  was  given 
to  the  delegate  from  Friedrichstown). 

At  1  o'clock  the  forenoon  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

Wednesday,  June  16th,  afternoon,  3  o'clock. 

The  session  was  opened  with  prayer. 

By  order  of  the  Ministerium  the  resolution  concerning  Mr.  Schroter 
was  handed  to  Mr.  "Wohlfarth,  Esq. 

Concerning  Mr.  Schmidt,  from  Easton,  Resolved  that  the  Ministerium 
cannot  have  anything  to  do  with  him. 

Mr.  Alrnes  was  given  the  answer  that  he  should  in  the  future  be 
faithful,  diligent  and  conscientious. 

Mr.  Butler,  Daniel  Schiifer  and  Friedrich  Sanno  were  examined  by 
Doctors  Helmuth,  Muhlenberg  and  Melsheimer. 

The  ordained  preachers  who  had  read  the  sermons  of  the  candidates 
reported  on  them,  and  read  parts  of  several  sermons,  which  were  again 
criticised. 

The  committee  which  had  been  named  to  examine  the  applicants 
made  a  favorable  report ;  whereupon  it  was  Resolved  to  receive  Mr.  ( r. 
Buttler  and  license  him  as  a  candidate  ;  further,  to  receive  Mr.  Daniel 
c  Schiifer  as  catechist,  and  that  he  be  under  the  supervision  of 
Pa-i  >r  Lehman  ;  further,  to  receive  Mr.  Friedrich  Sanno  as  catechist, 
and  that  he  be  under  the  supervision  of  Pastor  Schafi  r. 
Ived,  To  ordain  the  following  gentlemen : 

Mr.  Christian  Endress,  from  Easton;  Mr.  Johannes  Kothrauf,  from 
Greencastle ;  Mr.  Johann  Plitt,  from  New  Holland;  Mr.  Wilhelm 
i  r,  from  Shenandoah  ;   Mr.  Johannes  Foltz,  from   Rockingham, 

Virginia  ;  Mr.  Johann  Caspar  Diehl,  from  the  Jordan. 

Then  the  ordination  certificates  were  prepared  and  the  licenses  re- 
newed. 


330  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

A  member  stated  that  Mr.  Hubley  had  asked  him  to  request  the 
Ministerium  that  the  Reading  congregation  (as  long  as  it  is  vacant)  be 
now  and  then  favored  with  a  sermon.  When  the  question  was  laid  be- 
fore them  eleven  pastors  promised  to  preach  at  Reading. 

The  Ministerial  Meeting  was  closed  with  devout  prayer  and  the  sing- 
ing of  a  stanza  of  a  hymn. 

Because  of  the  ordination  still  to  be  performed,  service  was  held  in 
the  evening,  and  all  the  pastors  yet  present  attended. 

The  above-mentioned  candidates,  Endress,  Rothrauf,  Forster,  Foltz, 
Plitt  and  Diehl  were  ordained  by  the  President,  Mr.  Schmidt,  assisted 
by  Sen.  Schulze  and  Dr.  Helmuth,  with  prayer  and  the  laying  on  of 
hands,  and  their  certificates  of  ordination  were  handed  to  them.  Like- 
wise Messrs.  Buttler,  Daniel  Schafer  and  Friedrich  Sanno,  the  latter  two 
as  catechists,  the  former  as  candidate,  together  with  the  other  candi- 
dates, were  admonished  of  their  duties  and  their  licenses  handed  to 
them.  Pastor  Jung  afterwards  delivered  a  brief  address  on  I  Pe.  2  : 
24.  After  the  sermon,  Dr.  Helmuth  standing  before  the  altar,  thanked 
the  congregation  for  their  kind  reception  and  entertainment  of  the 
preachers  ;  encouraged  the  latter  also  to  be  faithful  in  the  service  of  the 
Lord,  and  closed  with  a  devout  prayer. 

This  afternoon  the  mandatorii  (attorneys)  distributed  of  the  interest 
of  the  legacy  among  the  teachers,  five  dollars  to  each. 

J.  Friedrich  Schmidt, 

P.  t.  President. 

Friedrich  D.  Schafer, 

P.  t.  Secretary. 


FIFTY-SIXTH  CONVENTION. 

1803. 


SYNODICAL  MEETING. 

Held  at  Baltimore,  June  5tii,  the  Festival  of  the  Trinity,  1803. 

The  Ministers  arrived  at  the  place  of  meeting  on  the  day  previous ; 
and  in  the  evening  (June  4th),  Pastor  Friedrich  D.  Schiifer,  preached 
in  the  Lutheran  Church  on  Matth.  7 :  21. 

Sunday,  June  5th.    Festival  of  the  Trinity. 

The  following  pastors  preached  : 

In  the  forenoon,  President  Schmidt  preached  in  the  Lutheran  Church, 
on  John  15  :  16-21  ;  Dr.  Muhlenberg  in  the  new  Reformed  Church, 
on  Acts  16 :  31  ;  Pastor  Goring  in  Mr.  Otterbein's,  on  John  3  :  36. 
In  the  afternoon,  Pastor  Geisenheiner  in  the  Lutheran  Church,  on  Tit. 
2:  11-14. 

Pastor  Endress  in  the  new  Reformed  Church,  on  II  Cor.  4 :  17.  In 
the  evening,  Dr.  Helmuth  in  the  Lutheran  Church,  on  Matth.  9.:   13. 

Monday,  June  6th,  a.m. 
The  President  opened  the  session  with  prayer. 

1.  Ministers  Present  and  Ordained  Preachers. 

Pastor  Schmidt,  J  from  Philadel  hia> 

Dr.  Helmuth,      j  L 

Dr.  Muhlenberg,  from  Lancaster. 

C.  Streit,  from  Winchester. 

J.  Goring,  from  York. 

V.  Melsheimer,  from  Hanover. 

Dr.  Kurz,  from  Baltimore. 

Friedrich  D.  Schiifer,  from  Germantown. 

Dr.  Zimmerman  (alias  Carpenter),  from  Culpepper,  Virginia. 

Friedrich  Geisenheiner,  from  New  Hanover. 

George  Lochmann,  from  Lebanon. 

331 


332  DOCUMENTARY   HISTORY. 

J.  Ruthrauf,  from  Greeii  Castle. 
Christian  Endress,  from  Eastou. 
Willi.  Forster,  from  Shenandoah,  Virginia. 
Johann  Plitt,  from  New  Holland. 

Licensed  Candidates. 

Joh.  Grob,  from  Paradise,  Pennsylvania. 

George  Griiber,  from  Mitteltown,  Virginia. 

Adolph  Spindler,  from  Augusta  County,  Virginia. 

J.  Herbst,  from  Mittelcrieck,  Northumberland  County. 

Heinrich  Geisenheiner,  from  Chester  County. 

George  Flohr,  from  Wythe  County,  Virginia. 

Friedrich  Jasinsky,  from  Friedrichstown. 

Fr.  Moeller,  from  Chamberstown. 

George  Buttler,  from  Greenville,  Botetourt  County,  Virginia. 

Muhlenberg,  Jun.,  from  Reading. 

Scriba.  . 

Catechists. 

Friedrich  Sanno,  from  Bedminster. 

Daniel  Georg  Schafer,  from  Penn  Township,  Northumberland  County. 

Delegates. 

Mr  Georg  Wolpper,  |  from  philadel  hia. 
Andr.  Geyer,  Jun.,    J 
Joh.  Muller,  from  Lancaster. 
Adam  Graber,  from  Yorktown. 
Friedrich  Brendel,  from  Baltimore. 
Joh.  Bardt,  from  Green  Castle. 
Abrah.  Horn,  from  Easttown. 
Philipp  Derr,  from  Mitteltown. 
Andr.  Bogen,  from  Fried richsstadt. 
Ph.  Scholl,  from  Chambersburg. 
Ludwig  Kesselring,  from  Daneytown. 

The  other  congregations  from  which  no  delegates  were  present,  had 
themselves  excused,  some  in  writing,  but  others  verbally  by  their  respec- 
tive pastors,  to  wit :  Lancaster,  Hanover,  Germantown,  New  Hanover, 
New  Holland,  Chester,  Mittelcrieck,  Wythe  County  and  Greenville. 

Hereupon  the  election  of  officers  was  held,  and  Pastor  Schmidt,  of 
Philadelphia,  was  elected  President,  and  Pastor  Friedrich  D.  Schiifer, 
of  Germantown,  Secretary.     Then  the  papers  were  handed  in. 

1.  A  paper  from  Tuscarora  Valley ;   2.  A  paper  from  Woodbury, 


FIFTY-SIXTH  CONVENTION,  1803.  333 

Maryland  ;  3.  A  paper  from  Stelzen's  Church,  Maryland  ;  4.  A  paper 
from  Jerusalem  Church,  etc. ;  5.  A  paper  from  Manheim  Township, 
York  County  ;  (i.  A  paper  from  Carlisle  ;  7.  A  paper  from  Huntingdon  ; 
8.  A  paper  from  Bleymeyers;  9.  A  paper  from  Hunimelstown ;  10.  A 
paper  from  Harrisburg;  11.  A  paper  from  Pine  Grove,  Bucks  County; 
12.  A  paper  from  Mr.  V.  Stock;  13.  A  paper  from  Seb.  Folz;  14.  A 
paper  from  "  Blauberger "  Congregation  ;  15.  A  paper  from  Mr.  P. 
Hinckel ;  10.  A  paper  from  Mr.  Schewe ;  17.  A  paper  from  Chanceford ; 
had  made  verbal  request  For  a  preacher,  through  Dr.  Muhlenberg;  18. 
A  paper  from  Pikeland  ;  19.  A  paper  from  Mr.  Steck,  Westmoreland 
County ;  20.  A  paper  from  Dover  Township,  York  County. 

The  letters  of  excuse  were,  in  part,  read,  and  were  from  Mr.  Stock, 
Mr.  P.  Hinckel,  Mr.  J.  Stauch,  Mr.  J.  Schmucker. 

Mr.  Obenhauss,  Mr.  Diehl,  Mr.  Roeller  were  orally  excused. 

The  Protocol  of  the  last  Synodical  Meeting  was  read. 

Protocols  of  Special  Conferences  were  presented,  and,  in  part,  read. 

After  the  reading  of  that  of  the  First  District,  it  was  Resolved,  That 
each  Special  Conference  shall,  at  the  end  of  its  session,  determine  when 
and  where  the  session  shall  be  held  next  year. 

After  the  reading  of  that  of  the  Second  District,  in  which  serious 
charges  are  made  against  several  of  the  preachers,  it  was  Resolved,  That 
the  matter  regarding  Mr.  Obenhausen  be  post]>oned  until  the  next 
Synodical'  Meeting. 

A  Protocol  of  the  Third  District,  and  that  of  the  District  Meeting  in 
Virginia,  which  was  printed,  were  read. 

The  papers  for  the  Synodical  Meeting  were  read,  their  contents 
weighed,  and  the  following  resolutions  made  regarding  them  : 

No.  1.  Concerning  Tuscarora  Valley,  Mifflinburg  and  Lewisburg, 
which  desire  a  teacher,  Resolved,  That  if  any  member  of  the  Ministerium 
feels  inclined  to  accept  a  call  from  these  congregations,  he  shall  inform 
the  President  to-day. 

Concerning  No.  2.  Resolved,  That  the  Ministerium  grant  Mr.  Jasinsky, 
in  Fricdrichsstadt,  permission  to  serve  the  congregation  at  Woodsbury 
(  in  Maryland). 

No.  3  was  read,  and  it  was  considered  more  appropriate  to  decide 
concerning  its  contents  in  the  Ministerial  Meeting. 

About  one  o'clock  the  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

Monday,  June  6Tn,  p.m.,  at  3  o'clock. 

The  session  was  opened  with  prayer. 

No.  4.  A  paper  from  the  Jerusalem's  Church  was  read. 

No.  5.  A  paper  from  Manheim  Township,  York  County,  was  read,  and 


334  DOCUMENTARY  HISTOEY. 

thereupon  Resolved,  That  if  any  member  of  the  Ministerium  felt  inclined 
to  accept  said  congregation,  he  should  inform  the  President  privately. 

No.  6.  A  letter  from  Carlisle  was  read  ;  this  congregation  also  desires 
a  preacher,  and,  in  particular,  Mr.  Sanno. 

No.  7.  A  letter  from  Huntingdon  was  read.  This  congregation  re- 
ports that  Mr.  Scheeve  was  not  able  to  correct  the  erring,  to  comfort  the 
afflicted,  etc. ;  otherwise  he  had  conducted  himself  in  a  proper  way.  They 
therefore  petition  for  a  pastor  who  knows  Christ.  This  paper  was  accom- 
panied by  one  from  the  Union  congregation.     Resolved,  as  with  No.  5. 

No.  8  was  read,  and  referred  to  the  Ministerial  Meeting. 

No.  9  was  read,  and  resolved,  as  with  No.  5  [from  Hummelstown]. 

No.  10.  A  letter  from  the  congregation  at  Harrisburg,  together  with 
another  from  one  Mr.  Joh.  Dietrich  Petersen,  who  requests  that,  by 
order  of  the  Ministerium,  he  may  be  examined  at  a  Special  Conference, 
and  then  be  ordained  as  a  pastor.    Referred  to  the  Ministerial  Meeting. 

No.  11.  A  writing  from  [Pinegrove]  the  Jacob's  Church  and  Salem's 
Church,  in  Berks  county,  in  which  request  is  made  for  Mr.  Knoske. 

No.  12.  A  letter  from  Candidate  Stock,  in  which  he  requests  to  be 
transferred  to  other  congregations  by  the  Ministerium.  Rev.  Mr.  Loch- 
man  promised  to  exert  himself  in  his  behalf. 

No.  14.  A  letter  was  read  from  the  "  Blauberger,"  or  congregation 
in  Braunschweig  Township,  signed  by  the  Church  Council  and  a  large 
number  of  its  members.  The  congregation  makes  various  complaints 
against  the  catechist,  Mr.  Daniel  George  Schiifer,  who  was  received  by 
the  Ministerium  at  their  request  only  last  year.  Among  other  things 
they  mention  that,  after  they  had  given  him  a  collection  of  £9  (almo- 
sengeld),  also  advanced  him  £35  of  borrowed  money,  but  could  not 
collect  more  than  £18  by  subscription,  he  no  longer  wished  to  serve 
them,  notwithstanding  that  he  himself  had  made  written  promise  to  be 
satisfied  with  what  would  be  subscribed.  They  state  that  they  wanted 
to  furnish  him  a  pretty  dwelling,  but  the  pastor  did  not  want  to  be 
satisfied  in  his  present  station,  but  obstinately  moved  into  another 
county.  In  the  new  church  he  has  fiercely  and  passionately  attacked 
upright  men,  but  had  left  love  and  gentleness  at  home.  These  good  people 
held  an  election  to  see  whether  they  wished  to  retain  him  ;  nine  voted  to 
dismiss  him,  and  three  (among  them  one  who  was  not  a  Lutheran)  voted  to 
retain  him  as  their  pastor.     In  brief,  the  congregation  is  now  divided. 

The  President  hereupon  appointed  Dr.  Muhlenberg,  Pastor  Goring 
and  Mr.  A.  Geyer,  Jun.,  as  a  committee  to  investigate  the  complaints, 
and  make  a  report. 

No.  18,  from  Zion's  Church,  in  Pikeland,  was  read,  and  referred  to 
the  Ministerial  Meeting. 


FIFTY-SIXTH  CONVENTION,  1803. 


335 


No.  19.  Mr.  Steele's  (Westmoreland  County)  letter  of  excuse  was 
read.     He  asks  that  his  license  be  renewed. 

No.  20.  A  writing  from  the  congregation  in  Dover  Township.  It 
requests  cither  to  be  united  with  York,  and  served  in  connection  with  it, 
or,  if  the  adjoining  congregations  were  again  supplied  with  a  pious  and 
able  teacher,  to  unite  with  these. 

The  reports  of  baptized,  etc.,  as  handed  in,  are  as  follows : 


Pastors. 

Mr.  Schmidt  and  Mr.  ) 
Helmuth  .    .    j 

"  Muhlenberg  .    .    . 

"  Streit 

"  Goring 

"  Melsheimer    .    .    . 

"  Kurz 

.  "  Fr.  Schafer   .    .    . 

"  Carpenter  .    .    .    . 

"  Fr.  Geiseuheiner  . 

"  Loch  man   .    .    .    . 

"  Rothrauf   .    .    .    . 

"  Endress  .... 

"  Plitt 

"  Forster 

"  Grob 

"  Graber 

"  Spindler 

"  Ilerbst  

"  H.  Geisenheincr    . 

"  Flohr 

"  Jasinsky    .    .    .    . 

"  Moeller 

"  Buttler 

"  Muhlenberg,  Jun.  . 

"  Schmucker     .    .    . 

"  Lange 

"  Steck 

"  Stock 

"  Scriba 

"  Sanno     

"  Dan.  Schafer  .   .    . 


Congregations. 

Philadelphia 

Lancaster  . 
Winchester 
York  .    .    . 
Hanover    . 
Baltimore  . 
Germantown 
Culpepper  . 
New  Hanover 
Lebanon    . 
Green  castle 
Easton  .    . 
New  Holland 
Shenandoah 
Paradise     . 
Mitteltown 
Augusta     . 
Mittelcreek 
Chester  County 
Wythe  County 
Friedrichstown 
Chambersburg 
Greenville  . 
Reading     . 
Hagerstown 
Berlin    .    . 
Greenslniri: 
Catawissa  . 

Bedmin8ter 

Braunschweig 


Bap-     Con-     Commu-      De- 

tized.  firmed,  nicanus.  cuascd.  Schools 

308  130  822  233    3 


49   26  201 
174   87  228 


120 

82 

139 

199 

110 

246 

131 

69 

109 

82 

50 

115 

58 

113 

153 

76 

36 


37  315 

15  176 

158  647 

79  720 

40  301 

77  502 

58  483 

28  245 

79  470 

55  181 

64  235 

75  365 

27  209 

64  221 

46  167 

37  95 

10  37 


158  53  384 

220  84  253 

208  87  408 

57  30  68 

63  —  38 

42  —  — 


15 

19 

27 
16 
26 
50 
14 
46 
28 
3 
11 
13 
10 
27 
15 
13 
54 
26 


30 
15 
33 


39 
13 


A- 


336  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

The  committee  which  had  investigated  the  charges  against  the  Cate- 
chist,  Mr.  Daniel  Schafer,  brought  in  its  report,  and  proposed  the 
following  resolution,  which  was  approved : 

Resolved,  That  we  do  not  find  the  accusation  against  Mr.  George 
Daniel  Schafer  proven  (according  to  which  he  is  said  to  have  used 
some  frivolous  expressions  in  his  boarding-house  at  Reading,  in  1802). 
His  written  testimony,  etc.,  made  such  explanation  of  the  matter,  that 
we  see  no  evil  meaning  in  his  expressions.  Nevertheless,  we  advise 
that  he  be  granted  permission  to  leave  the  Zion's  congregation. 

[A  communication  from  the  Zion's  Congregation  to  the  Ministerium 
reports  that  a  majority  of  the  above  congregation  has  already  dismissed 
Mr.  Daniel  Schafer,  and  never  again  wishes  to  have  him  as  their 
preacher ;  in  case  he  was  forced  upon  them  the  congregation  would  be 
be  brought  into  the  greatest  confusion.  They  ask  the  Ministerium 
to  give  them  as  their  pastor  Mr.  Knoske,  who  is  pure  in  his  teaching 
and  unblamable  in  life.] 

Hereupon  the  election  was  held. 

The  Festival  Trinitatis  was  appointed  as  the  time,  and  Germantown 
as  the  place  of  the  next  Synodical  Meeting. 

About  six  o'clock  the  Synodical  Meeting  was  closed  with  prayer  and 
the  delegates  dismissed. 

In  the  evening preached. 


MINISTERIAL    MEETING. 

Tuesday,  June  7th,  a.m. 


The  Ministerial  Meeting  was  opened  with  prayer. 

Mr.  Jacob  Weigel,  from  York  County,  brought  a  complaint  against 
Pastor  Melsheimer  that  he  had  married  his  son,  Georg  Weigel,  to  a 
woman  already  married.  Hereupon  a  committee  was  named — by 
the  President,  Messrs.  G.  Geisenheiner  and  Plitt ;  by  the  accuser,  Dr. 
Helmuth — to  investigate  the  above  accusation  and  report  on  it. 

The  committee  handed  in  its  report,  which  was  discussed,  and  resolved 
to  further  deliberate  upon  it,  and  decide  the  matter  this  afternoon. 

Oral  request  was  then  made  that  Mr  Herbst  be  permitted  to  visit  the 
Fissels,  congregation  this  fall. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Herbst  be  permitted  to  comply  with  the  request 
of  the  said  congregation  and  those  united  with  it. 

A  delegate  from  the  congregation  in  Tuscarora  Valley  [No.  1]  made 
oral  request  for  a  pastor. 


FIFTY-SIXTII  CONVENTION,  1803.  337 

/.'  solved,  That  Mr.  Bcriba  [who  had  come  from  Germany  in  the  pre- 
ceding fall  as  a  theological  candidate,  furnished  with  good  testimonials, 
also  had  been  licensed  by  the  officers  of  the  Ministerium,  and  had  been 
Stationed  as  preacher  at  Reading  until  Easter]  be  recommended  to  visit 
Tuscarora,  etc. 

Concerning  No.  6,  it  was  Resolved,  That  the  Catechist  Mr.  Sanno  pay 
a  visit  to  Carlisle,  etc,  and  if  he  receive  a  call  from  the  said  congrcga- 
tions,  the  officers  give  him  permission  to  accept  the  call,  and  to  this  end 
grant  him  a  full  license. 

Applicants. 

Mr.  Knoske,  who  until  now  has  preached  to  the  congregations  at 
Jacob's,  Salem's,  and  Pmegrove  Churches,  recpuests  to  be  admitted  into 
the  Ministerium. 

Mr.  Rehman. — A  congregation  in  York  Township,  as  also  that  at 
Oberbermudien,  and  at  Steltzen's  church  [No.  3],  made  written  recmest 
that  he  be  received. 

Mr.  Sebastian  Voltz  [No.  13]. — Two  congregations  in  Rockingham 
County  [where  Mr.  Voltz  has  preached  for  seven  years  already],  that  of 
Emanuel's  church  in  Augusta  County,  and  that  of  Rockfish  Gap 
in  Amherst  County,  made  very  earnest  request  in  their  letters  that  this 
good  man  be  received. 

Mr.  Andrea*  Alms. 

P.  Ernst  [who  has  been  stationed  in  New  York  State  as  preacher  for 
several  years]  asked  whether,  in  the  future,  he  should  consider  himself 
a  member  of  the  Ministerium  ? 

Resolved,  That  the  decision  be  postponed. 

The  candidates  and  catechists  then  handed  in  their  journals,  etc. 

Sermons.  Journals. 

Mr.  Grob 

"  Spindler 

"  G.  I.  Flohr 

"  Graber 

"  Herbst 

"  II.  Geisenheiner 

"  G.  Buttler 

"  Jasinsky 

"  Muhlenberg,  Jun 1  1 

"  Sanno 2  — 

"  Moller 

"  Dan.  Bchafer 

"  Scriba 21 

Outlines. 
22 


338  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

The  ordained  preachers  were  divided  into  four  committees,  to  look 
over  the  sermons,  etc.,  examine  the  applicants,  and  make  report  of  it. 

Committee  1.  Dr.  Helmuth,  Streit  and  Plitt.  2.  Dr.  Muhlenberg, 
Carpenter  and  Endress.  3.  P.  Goring,  Kurz  and  Fr.  Geisenheiner.  4. 
P.  Melsheimer,  Lochman  and  Rothrauf. 

At  1  o'clock  the  session  was  closed  with  prayer 

Tuesday,  June  7th,  p.m.,  3  o'clock. 

Session  was  opened  with  prayer. 

The  committees,  one  after  the  other,  made  verbal  reports,  which  were 
discussed. 

Mr.  Weinland,  from  Pottsgrove,  appeared  before  the  Ministerium 
and  requested  to  be  received. 

After  conscientious  consideration  of  this  request,  it  was  Resolved,  That 
at  the  present  we  find  too  many  scruples  to  be  able  to  grant  his  request 
and  desire. 

This  resolution  was  handed  to  Mr.  Weinland  in  writing. 

Concerning  Mr.  Ernst,  who  had  declared  before  the  Assembly,  that 
he  would  not  again  attend  a  lodge,  the  question  was  asked :  Shall  Mr. 
Ernst  be  regarded  as  a  member  of  the  Ministerium  ? 

Four  preachers  answered,  Yes  ;  one,  No ;  the  others  remained  silent. 

The  question  was  then  put,  whether  candidates  were  to  be  ordained  ? 
Answer,  Yes. 

Of  the  gentlemen  proposed  for  ordination,  the  following  had  two- 
thirds  of  the  ordained  preachers  present  in  their  favor  [two-thirds  of 
the  previously  ordained  preachers  voted  for  their  ordination,  Constitu- 
tion, C.  V.,  §  7] : 

Mr.  Georg  Flohr,  from  "Wythe  County,  Virginia  ;  Adolph  Spindler, 
from  Augusta  County,  Virginia ;  J.  Grob,  from  York  County,  Penn- 
sylvania. 

Resolved,  That  they  be  ordained  in  the  church  this  evening. 

The  licenses  of  the  remaining  candidates  were  renewed,  likewise  those 
of  the  catechists,  Fr.  Sanno  and  Georg  Daniel  Schafer. 

Concerning  Mr.  Knoske,  Resolved,  That  he  be  granted  a  full  license. 

Concerning  Mr.  Rehman,  Resolved,  That  he  be  received  as  catechist, 
and  be  under  the  supervision  of  Pastor  Melsheimer. 

Mr.  S.  Voltz  was  advised  to  make  use  of  the  instruction  of  some 
preacher  for  some  time. 

Concerning  Mr.  Schewe,  who,  according  to  No.  7,  does  not  want  to 
have  any  association  with  farmers,  and  yet  cannot  be  of  use  in  the  town 
of  Huntingdon,  it  was 


FIFTY-SIXTH   CONVENTION,  1803.  339 

Resolved,  That  his  request  (to  be  received)  cannot  be  complied  with. 
The  same  was  resolved  concerning  Andr.  Alms. 

Concerning  No.  10.  The  Ministerium  is  not  disposed  to  send  a  com- 
mission to  Harrisburg  to  examine  and  ordain  the  supplicant. 

The  certificates  of  ordination  were  now  prepared. 

1'astor  Friedrich  D.  Schafer,  from  Germantown,  stated  to  the  Minis- 
terium,  that  since  yesterday  he  had  learned  that  the  pastor  from 
Easton,  for  more  than  one  reason,  wished  that  the  next  Synodical  Meet- 
ing could  have  been  held  at  that  place,  and,  since  the  circumstances  of 
the  pastor  and  congregation  at  Easton,  as  they  at  present  are,  had  be- 
come more  fully  known  to  him,  Pastor  Schafer  was  willing  that  the  next 
Synodical  Meeting  be  held  at  Easton ;  in  the  well-grounded  hope,  how- 
ever, that  it  would  afterwards  be  held  at  Germantown.  Several  pastors 
promised,  D.  V.,  then  to  vote  for  Germantown.  It  was  then  Resolved, 
That  the  next  Synodical  Meeting  should  be  held  at  Easton  on  Trinity 
Sunday. 

The  Mandatorii  distributed  of  the  interest  five  dollars  to  each 
minister. 

The  President  closed  the  ministerial  session  with  a  hearty  prayer. 

In  the  evening  the  Candidates,  G.  Flohr,  A.  Spindler  and  J.  Grob, 
were  solemnly  ordained  to  the  office  of  the  ministry  by  President 
Schmidt,  assisted  by  Drs.  Helmuth  and  Muhlenberg. 

This  is  witnessed  by 

J.  Friedrich  Schmidt, 

P.  t.  President. 

Friedrich  D.  Schafer, 

P.  t.  Secretary. 


FIFTY-SEVENTH  CONVENTION. 

1804. 


Transactions  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Synodical  Meeting  held 
at  Easton,  May  27th  to  29th,  1804. 

On  Sunday,  May  27th,  Kev.  Mr.  Schmidt,  the  President,  preached 
an  edifying  sermon  in  the  forenoon,  on  Rom.  1  :  16.  Doctor  Muhlen- 
berg preached  in  the  afternoon  on  Apoc.  2  :  3,  and  Doctor  Helmuth  in 
the  evening  on  Isa.  12  :  3. 

Monday,  May  28th,  a.m. 

The  public  sessions  of  the  Synod  began.  The  preachers  present  were 
the  following : 

Ordained  Preachers. 

Doctor  Helmuth,  from  Philadelphia. 
Rev.  Mr.  Schmidt,  from  Philadelphia. 
Doctor  Muhlenberg,  from  Lancaster. 
Rev.  Mr.  Goring,  from  Yorktown. 

"       Schafer,  from  Germantown. 

"       Geisenheiner,  from  New  Hanover. 

"        Lochman,  from  Lebanon. 

"        Schmucker,  from  Hagerstown. 

"        Andreas  Schulze,  from  Womelsdorf. 

"       Jager,  from  Hanover  Township. 

"        Endress,  from  Easton. 
Dill,  from  Whitehall. 

"       Plitt,  from  New  Holland. 

"       Forster,  from  Shenandoah. 

Licensed  Candidates. 

Mr.  Stauch,  from  Fayette  County. 

"  Obenhauseu,  from  Weissenburg. 

"  Graber,  from  Mitteltown. 

"  Heinrich  Geisenheiner,  from  Vincent  Township. 

"  Roller,  from  Goshenhoppen. 

"  Jasinsky,  from  Friedrichstadt. 
340 


FIFTY-SEVENTH  CONVENTION,   1804.  341 

Mr.  Ilgen,  from  Aaronsburg. 
**     Mublenberg,  from  Reading. 
"     Buttler,  from  Greenville. 

Catechist. 

Mr.  Conrad  Riemann,  from  York  County. 

Delegates  Present. 

Messrs.  Jobann  L.  Wagner  and  Job  ami  Lang,  from  Philadelpbia. 

Mr.  Friedricb  Horn,  from  Yorktown. 

"  Georg  Hacker,  from  Germantown. 

"  Heinrich  Heist,  from  New  Hanover. 

"  Jacob  Bucber,  from  Lebanon. 

"  Leonhaxdt  Kubn,  from  Hagerstown. 

"  Michael  Huber,  from  Rev.  Mr.  Jiiger's  congregations. 

u  Michael  Opp,  from  Easton. 

"  Ludwig  Slecber,  from  Fayette  County. 

"  Jacob  Goring,  from  Mr.  Roller's  congregations. 

"  Bernhardt  Gilbert,  from  Friedrichstadt. 

"  Philipp  Moser,  from  Aaronsburg. 

"  Friedrich  Heller,  from  Reading. 

They  proceeded  to  the  election  of  officers,  and  by  a  majority  of  votes 
Doctor  Helmuth  was  appointed  President  and  Jacob  Goring  Secretary 

The  various  papers  were  handed  in  ;  the  absent  ordained  preachers 
and  licensed  candidates  and  their  excuses  were  noted. 

The  following  excused  themselves  in  writing  : 

Mr.  Jobann  Michael  Steck.  The  letter  of  excuse  was  accompanied 
by  a  list  of  the  communicants  and  baptized.  Mr.  Georg  Flohr,  Wythe 
County,  in  Virginia,  also  a  list ;  Mr.  Friedrich  Sanno,  Carlisle,  also  a 
list ;  Mr.  Emanuel  Schulze,  Tulpehocken,  with  a  list ;  Mr.  Daniel  Leh- 
man, MissiUum,  with  a  list;  Mr.  V.  G.  Stock,  Wahner's  Church; 
Mr.  Jobann  Rothrauf,  Greencastle  ;  Mr.  Jobann  Herbst,  York  County ; 
Mr.  Knosky,  Mr.  Friedrich  Moller,  Chambersburg ;  Mr.  Christian 
Streit,  Winchester,  Virginia.  This  letter  of  excuse  was  also  accom- 
panied by  a  list  of  the  communicants  and  baptized. 

The  following  had  themselves  excused  orally :  Mr.  Lange,  Berlin  ; 
Mr.  Jobann  Grob,  Taneytown. 

The  Synodical  Protocol  of  last  year  was  read  ;  also  the  reports  of  the 
Special  Conferences. 

In  the  First  District  no  meeting  was  held.     Rev.  Mr.  Geisenheiner 
made  excuse  for  the  preachers  belonging  to  it. 

In  the  Easton  District  a  meeting  was  held  ;  the  Protocol  was  read. 


342  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

In  the  Lancaster  District  a  meeting  was  held  ;  the  Protocol  was  read. 

In  the  Yorktown  District  there  was  no  meeting.  It  was  to  be  held 
in  Emmettstown,  but  no  one  appeared  except  Jacob  Goring. 

In  the  Baltimore  District  the  meeting  was  held  in  Mitteltown.  The  gen- 
tlemen belonging  to  it  spent  the  time  in  the  discussion  of  edifying  subjects. 

In  the  Western  District  there  was  no  meeting. 

In  the  Virginia  District  a  meeting  was  held  and  its  Protocol  was  read. 

Report  was  made  of  the  death  of  our  beloved  brother,  Mr.  C.  F. 
Wildbahn. 

The  papers  sent  in  were  taken  up  for  consideration. 

1.  Papers  from  Philadelphia.  A  controversy  had  arisen  there  in 
reference  to  English  preaching  in  the  German  Church  :  Resolved,  to 
hand  the  papers  on  this  question  to  a  committee  of  five,  and  that  Messrs 
Schafer,  Lochmann,  Endress,  Horn  and  Hacker  be  that  committee.  The 
committee  shall  report  in  the  afternoon. 

2.  A  letter  from  Harrisburg,  Dauphin  County.  A  request  that  Mr. 
Petersen  be  received  into  the  Ministerium. 

3.  A  similar  letter  from  Mitteltown,  Dauphin  County.  Both  letters 
belong  to  the  Ministerial  Meeting. 

4.  A  letter  from  Allen's  Township, County.     Petition  for  a 

preacher :  Resolved,  That  this  request  be  referred  to  a  committee,  and 
that  Messrs.  Jager  and  Geisenheiner  be  this  committee. 

5.  Letters  from  Hamilton  Township,  Northampton  County.  Petition 
for  a  preacher  :  Resolved,  That  these  writings  also  be  handed  to  the  last 
named  committee. 

6.  A  letter  from  Gwinett  Township,  Montgomery  County.  Petition 
for  a  preacher  :  Resolved,  To  hand  this  letter  to  Messrs.  Geisenheiner 
and  Schafer  as  a  committee. 

A  motion  was  now  made  and  seconded  :  That  the  congregations  in 
Allen's  Township  and  Hamilton  Township,  Northampton  County  (Nos. 
4,  5),  be  advised  to  apply  to  Mr.  Dill.     This  motion  was  approved. 

7.  A  letter  from  the  so-called  Keller's,  Springfield,  Nockamixon  and 

Tinicum  congregations  in  County.     Petition  that  Mr.  Johann 

Nicolaus  Mensch  be  received  into  the  Ministerium.    This  letter  was  re- 
ferred to  the  Ministerial  Meeting. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

Monday,  May  28th,  p.m. 

8.  A  letter  from  Pikeland  Township,  Chester  County.  Petition  that 
Mr.  Conrad  Friedrich  Plitt  be  received  into  the  Ministerium.  This  letter 
was  at  the  same  time  a  call.     Was  referred  to  the  Ministerial  Meeting. 

9.  A  letter  from  Salzburg  Township,  Northampton  County.     Com- 


FIFTY-SEVENTH  CONVENTION,  1804.  343 

plaint  that  the  congregation  is  without  a  preacher.  Petition  that  Mr. 
Frii'i  1  rich  Plitt  might  serve  them.  Resolved,  That  this  letter  be  referred 
to  a  committee,  and  that  Mr.  Jiiger  and  Mr.  Dill  be  this  committee. 
The  report  of  the  committee  was,  that  this  congregation  be  answered 
orally  ,  and  this  report  was  approved. 

10.  A  letter  from  Huntingdon,  Huntingdon  County.  Petition  that 
Mr.  Griiber  be  permitted  to  accept  this  congregation,  since  Mr.  Griiber 
had  promised  the  congregation  to  do  so,  on  the  condition  that  the  Min- 
isterium  would  permit  it.  Resolved,  to  hand  this  letter  to  Messrs. 
Jasinsky,  Ilgen  and  Griiber,  as  a  committee. 

11.  A  letter  from  Greenville,  Boutetourt  County,  in  Virginia.  A 
testimonial  for  Mr.  Georg  Buttler,  and  a  petition  for  his  ordination. 
Referred  to  the  Ministerial  Meeting. 

12.  A  letter  from  various  congregations  in  York  County.  Petition 
that  Mr.  Reimann  be  licensed.  This  letter  was  referred  to  the  Minis- 
terial Meeting. 

13.  A  letter  from  Columbiana  County,  in  the  State  of  Ohio.  Peti- 
tion that  Mr.  Georg  Simon  be  received  into  the  Ministerium.  Was 
referred  to  the  Ministerial  Meeting. 

14.  A  letter  from  Chambersburg,  Franklin  County.  A  testimonial 
for  Mr.  Mollcr,  and  a  petition  that  they  might  retain  him  as  preacher. 
Was  granted. 

15.  A  letter  from  various  congregations,  served  by  Mr.  Ilgen,  contains 
a  favorable  testimonial  for  Mr.  Ludwig  Wilhelm  Ilgen.  Was  approved. 

16.  A  letter  from  the  congregation  on  the  Little  Lecha,  in  Ma- 
cuntshy  Township.  Contains  a  favorable  testimonial  for  Mr.  J.  F. 
Obenhaussen,  and  a  petition  that  they  may  keep  him  as  their  preacher, 
and  not  be  forced  to  join  again  with  the  congregations  formerly  united 
with  them.     Postponed  until  the  next  session. 

17.  A  letter  from  Dr.  Johann  Christoph  Kunze,  in  New  York, 
together  with  documents  relating  to  the  Hartwig  bequest.  This  letter 
is  a  model  of  Christian  cordiality  and  of  fraternal  encouragement.  It 
contains,  among  much  else,  also  the  following  expressions,  which  need 
to  be  thought  over  :  "  A  man,  who  otherwise  has  the  knowledge  essen- 
tially necessary  f<>r  the  office,  is  not  indifferent  to  me  now,  if  I  know  that  he 
believes  the  catechi.-m  of  Luther.  Ofourmen  on  this  side  of  the  Hudson 
— I  know  no  one,  God  be  praised,  who  denies  the  Lord  who  ha*  redeemed 
him.  But  it  is  nothing  less  than  this  that  men  are  at  present  doing  boldly 
in  Germany,  through  pulpit,  life  and  pen — who  eat  the  bread  of  the 
Church.  God  preserve  us,  my  dear  brethren,  in  this  sad  time,  from 
apostles  coming  from  there!!"1     Resolved,  that  Dr.  Muhlenberg  and 

1 "  Es  ist  mir  eiu  Maun  der  uebrigens  die  dem  Amte  wesentlich  noetigen  Kennt- 


344  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Rev.  Mr.  Plitt  be  a  committee,  and  this  letter  be  given  into  their 
hands. 

The  committee  which  had  considered  the  papers  from  Philadelphia 
(No  1)  made  the  following  report:  "Your  committee  has  duly  con- 
sidered the  matter  referred  to  it,  and  begs  leave  to  present  the  following 
points  to  the  Synod : 

"  It  regrets  the  disturbance  at  present  reigning  in  the  beloved  con- 
gregation, and  wishes  that  the  Lord  of  the  Church  Himself  may  look 
upon  it,  and  graciously  heal  the  wounds." 

"2.  It  finds,  after  due  deliberation,  that  it  would  be  acting  too  hastily, 
if  it  passed  judgment  in  this  matter,  since  the  congregation  has  a  char- 
ter and  Constitution,  by  which  it  must  be  guided,  and  furthermore,  the 
Synod  does  not  think  itself  justified  to  mix  in  the  internal  affairs  of  a 
congregation."  This  report  was  approved,  and  it  was  Resolved,  That  it 
shall  be  sent  to  those  who  wrote  to  the  Ministerium. 

The  committee  which  had  taken  into  consideration  the  affairs  of 
Huntingdon  (No.  10),  made  the  report :  "  Since  Mr.  Graber  cannot 
accept  the  congregation  at  Huntingdon,  and  as  there  is  no  other  near 
by  whom  it  could  be  served,  the  proposition  is  made :  That  the  Min- 
isterium recommend  for  the  place  some  one  who  is  inclined  to  leave  his 
congregation,  or  who  at  present  has  no  congregation."  This  report  was 
approved,  and  it  was  Resolved,  That  Mr.  Graber  write  to  the  congrega- 
tion at  Huntingdon,  and  ask  them  to  excuse  him  for  not  coming. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer.  Tins  evening,  Rev.  Mr. 
Schmucker  preached. 

Tuesday,  May  29th,  a.m. 

18.  A  letter  from  Paradise  Township,  York  County.  The  congrega- 
tion requests  that  Mr.  Herbst  may  serve  it.  Resolved,  That  the  request 
of  this  congregation  be  granted. 

The  Special  Conference  in  the  Lancaster  District  had  recommended 
three  plans  to  the  Synod. 

1.  Concerning  an  institution  for  the  education  of  young  preachers. 

2.  Concerning  the  establishing  of  a  Synodical  Treasury. 

3.  Concerning  traveling  preachers. 

These  plans  were  considered  item  by  item  and  approved.  Thereupon 
the  following  resolutions  were  drawn  up  and  adopted  : 

nisse  hat,  jetzt  nicht  gleichtgueltig,  wenn  ich  weiss,  er  glaubt  den  Kateclnsmus 
Luthers — Von  den  unsrigen  diesseit  dem  Hudson — Ich  weiss  von  niemand,  gott- 
lob,  der  den  Hern  verleugnete,  der  ihn  erkauft  hat.  Nichts  geringeres  aber  als 
dies,  ist  es  was  jetzt  Menschen  in  Deutschland  ungescheut  dnrch  Kanzel,  Umgang 
und  Feder  thun,  die  das  Brod  der  Kirche  essen — Gott  behuete  uns  meine  theuren 
Brueder,  in  diesem  traurigen  Zeitpunkte  fuer  Aposteln  von  daherl  " 


FIFTY-SEVENTH  CONVENTION,  1804. 


345 


1.  That,  in  accordance  with  the  plan  adopted,  Rev.  Mr.  Melsheimer, 
in  Hanover,  the  preachers  in  Philadelphia,  Rev.  Mr.  Lochmannin  Leb- 
anon, Rev.  Mr  Schmucker  in  Hagerstown,  Rev.  Mr.  Geisenheiner  in 
New  Hanover,  Rev.  Mr.  Streit  in  Winchester,  be  teachers  for  the 
instruction  of  young  preachers. 

2.  That  a  Treasurer  of  the  Synodical  Meeting  be  elected.  Rev.  Mr. 
Schmidt,  of  Philadelphia,  was  elected. 

3.  That  the  officers  of  the  Ministeriura  shall  be  a  committee  to  have 
the  plans  printed  as  adopted,  and  shall  prefix  a  cordial  address  to  the 
members  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Congregations,  in  the  name  of 
the  Synodical  Meeting, 

4.  That  one  thousand  copies  of  the  said  plans  shall  be  printed. 

The  committee  which  had  considered  the  letter  of  Dr.  Kunze  (No. 
17),  reported.  Resolved,  That  written  answer  be  made  to  the  Doctor. 
Rev.  Plitt,  of  New  Holland,  had  outlined  an  answer,  which  was  ap- 
proved. With  reference  to  the  Hartwig  matter,  it  reads  as  follows : 
"  Rev.  Mr.  Strebeck  did  not  appear  at  this  Synodical  Meeting,  as  the 
Doctor  had  expected.  His  absence  has  left  us  without  information  as 
to  the  special  cause  and  object  of  the  Doctor's  communication — and 
that  we  distant  brethren  in  this  matter  trust  the  judgment  of  the  New 
York  Ministerium  much  more  than  our  own." 

The  parochial  reports  (Register)  or  lists  of  communicants,  etc.,  were 
handed  in  as  follows : 


Philadelphia,  . 
Lancaster,  .  . 
Germantown,  . 
New  Hanover,  . 
Lebanon, .  .  . 
Hanover,  .  .  . 
Hagerstown,  . 
Easton,  .... 
Whitehall,  .  . 
New  Holland,  . 
Shenandoah,  . 
Fayette  C< unity, 
Weiasenburg,  . 
Mitteltown,  .  , 
Vincent  Township, 
Goshenhoppen, 
Friedrichfistadt, 


Bap- 
tized. 

318 
155 

75 
137 
178 
117 
190 
159 
110 
174 

51 
143 
431 

86 

60 
115 
195 


Con- 
firmed. 

95 
59 
39 
48 
77 
84 
80 
74 
64 


20 
101 

41 
76 
70 


Commu- 
nicants. 

876 
517 
308 
449 
735 
617 
327 
441 
640 
680 
198 
376 
1593 
184 
305 
355 
230 


De- 
ceased. 

162 

44 

28 
32 
32 
29 
36 
32 
19 
21 
6 
9 
32 
10 
16 
25 
57 


Schools. 

4 
1 
1 
5 
6 
8 
5 
7 
4 
4 
3 
4 
11 
4 
2 

4 
1 


Con- 
Srmed 

110 

Commu- 
nicants. 

893 

De- 
ceased. 

9 

Schools. 
4 

15 

51 

— 

1 

52 

250 

14 

1 

— 

— 

12 

1 

48 

850 

30 

— 

136 

384 

27 

— 

27 

112 

9 

3 

73 

262 

35 

— 

87 

.446 

— 

5 

346  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Bap- 
tized. 

Aaronsburg 179 

Greenville, 52 

Reading, 122 

York  County,  .  '.    .    .  30 

Missilum, 150 

Manheim,  etc.,     .    .    .  125 

Wythe  County,    ...  73 

Berlin, 201 

York, 162 

Resolved,  That  answer  be  made  to  the  congregation  on  the  Little 
Lecha,  Macunshy  Township  (No.  16),  that  their  request  was  granted  for 
this  year,  but  at  the  same  time  the  advice  is  given,  if  possible  in  the 
future  to  unite  with  the  congregations  formerly  united  with  it. 

Resolved,  That  ordained  preachers  who  know  of  vacant  congrega- 
tions in  their  neighborhood,  shall  visit  them,  and  report  on  the  con- 
dition of  such  congregations  at  the  next  Synodical  Meeting. 

The  choice  of  time  and  place  for  the  next  Synodical  Meeting  was 
now  held;  Germantown  was  appointed  as  the  place,  and  Trinity  Sun- 
day as  the  time. 

The  state  of  religion  in  the  various  congregations  was  now  discussed, 
and  the  Synodical  Meeting  was  closed  with  earnest  prayer. 


Transactions  of  the  Ministerial  Meeting  of  the  Evange- 
lical Lutheran  Preachers,  held  at  Easton, 
May  29th  and  30th,  1804. 


Tuesday,  May  29th,  p.m. 

For  ordination  were  proposed : 

Messrs.  Friedrich  Wilhelm  Jasinsky,  Georg  Graber,  Heinrich  Muhl- 
enberg, Ludwig  Wilhelm  Ilgen,  J.  Friedrich  Obenhaussen,  Heinrich 
Geisenheiner,  Georg  Roller,  Johann  Stauch,  Georg  Buttler. 

The  following  are  to  be  received  into  the  Ministerium  : 
Messrs.  Johann  Dietrich  Petersen,  from  Harrisburg;  Conrad  Fried- 
rich Plitt,  from  Vincent  Township ;  Joh.  Carl  Rebenack,  from  Bender's 
Church,  Adams  County;   Nicolaus  Mensch,  from  Springfield,  Bucks 


FIFTY-SEVENTH   CONVENTION,   1804.  347 

County  ;  Friedrich  Haas,  from  Fried ricbsstadt;  Georg  Simon,  from  the 
State  of  Ohio. 

Catechist  Riemann  requested  to  be  advanced  to  the  office  of  candidate. 

Written  questions  were  banded  to  the  candidates  and  applicants  to 
be  answered. 

The  written  testimonials  of  Mr.  Johann  Carl  Rebenack  were  read 
and  from  them  it  appeared  that  he  had  been  ordained  in  Germany. 

Resolved,  That  J.  C.  Rebenack  be  regarded  by  ns  as  a  friend,  like 
others  in  previous  years,  without  being  a  full  member,  and  that  congre- 
gations united  with  us  have  full  permission  to  accept  him  as  pastor, 
without  thereby  acting  against  our  Constitution.  We  have  read  his 
papers  from  Europe,  and  doubt  not  that  his  ordination  is  correct. 

ZNTr.  Joh.  Friedr.  Weiuland  made  oral  and  earnest  request  to  bo 
received.  Resolved,  That  the  following  paper,  signed  by  the  President 
and  Secretary,  be  given  him  :  "  The  bearer  of  this,  Mr.  J.  F.  Weinland, 
is  regarded  by  us  as  a  friend,  who  has  our  good  will.  If  he  could 
obtain  a  congregation  here  or  there,  as  preacher,  it  would  very  much 
please  us,  because  at  present  he  has  no  congregation.  Much  more  would 
we  rejoice  if  after  some  time  he  could  appear  before  us  with  testimonials 
of  his  Christian  conduct  and  blameless  behavior,  winch  would  make  us 
willing  to  receive  him  with  open  arms  as  a  member." 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

This  evening  Rev.  Mr.  Lochmann  preached. 

Wednesday,  May  30tii,  a.m. 

The  answers  handed  in  by  the  candidates  and  applicants  were  read. 
Thereupon  the  following  resolutions  were  drawn  up  : 

1.  That  there  shall  be  ordained:  Messrs.  Joh.  Stanch,  Joh.  Georg 
Gniber,  I  lei  n  rich  Geissenheiner,  Joh.  Friedr.  Jasinsky,  Ludwig  Wilh. 
Ilgen,  Heinrich  Aug.  Muhlenberg. 

2.  That  Messrs.  Conrad  Riemann,  Joh.  Dietrich  Petersen,  Conrad 
Friedr.  I'litt,  shall  be  received  and  licensed  as  candidates. 

3.  That  Mr.  Nicol.  Mensch  be  received  as  catechist,  and  be  under 
the  supervision  of  Mr.  Jiiger. 

4.  That  the  officers  of  the  Ministerium  grant  Mr.  Friedr.  Haas  a 
license  as  catechist  or  candidate,  as  they  thought  best,  whenever  he 
show  them  a  regular  call  from  congregations  that  want  him.  The  officers 
of  the  Ministerium  shall  recommend  him  for  Huntingdon. 

5.  That  Mr.  Georg  Simon  be  given  a  license  as  candidate  in  the  con- 
gregations which  ask  for  him,  with  the  admonition  that  the  Ministerium 
desires  that  he  receive  further  instruction. 


348  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

The  solemn  act  of  Ordination  was  held  in  the  church,  and  the  Minis- 
terium  was  dismissed  by  Doctor  Helmuth,  after  a  cordial  address  and 
prayer. 

This  is  witnessed  by 

J.  Heinr.  Ch.  Helmuth, 

President. 

Jacob  Goering, 

P.  t.  Secretary. 


FIFTY-EIGHTH  CONVENTION. 

1805. 

(Sunday,  Junk  9th.) 


Transactions  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Synodical  Meeting,  held 
at  Germantown,  June  9th  and  the  Days  Following,  1805. 

In  the  forenoon  the  following  preached :  Mr.  Jacob  Goering,  on  Isa. 
3  :  10,  11 ;  Mr.  George  Schmucker,  in  the  Reformed  church;  Mr.  Daniel 
Kurtz,  in  Philadelphia.  In  the  afternoon  :  Mr.  Georg  Lochmann,  on 
Matth.  11 :  28-30  ;  Mr.  F.  W.  Jasinsky,  in  Philadelphia.  In  the  even- 
ing :  Mr.  F.  Valentin  Melsheimer,  on  Job  21 :  15 ;  Mr.  Johannes 
Rothrauff,  in  the  Reformed  church. 

Monday,  June  10th,  a.m. 
The  Synodical  Meeting  was  opened  with  prayer. 

Ordained  Ministers  Present. 

1.  Mr.  Emanuel  Schultze,  from  Tulpehocken. 

2.  Dr.  Just.  Christian  Heinrich  Helmuth,  from  Philadelphia. 

3.  Mr.  Friedrich  Schmidt,  from  Philadelphia. 

4.  Dr.  Heinrich  Muhlenberg,  from  Lancaster. 

5.  Mr.  Jacob  Goering,  from  York. 

6.  "  Daniel  Lehman,  from  Missillum. 

7.  "  Friedrich  Ernst,  from  Manheim. 

8.  "  Friedrich  Valentin  Melsheimer,  from  Hanover. 

9.  "  Daniel  Kurz,  from  Baltimore. 

10.  "  Friedrich  David  Schafer,  from  Germantown. 

11.  "  Friedrich  Willhelm  Geisenheiner,  from  New  Hanover. 

12.  "  George  Lochmann,  from  Lebanon. 

13.  "  George  Schmucker,  from  Hagerstown. 

14.  "  Conrad  Jager. 

15.  "  Johannes  Rothrauf,  from  Greencastle. 

16.  "  Christian  Endress,  from  Easton. 

17.  "  Wilhelm  Forster,  from  Shenandoah,  Virginia. 

18.  "  Johannes  Plitt,  from  New  Holland. 

349 


350  DOCUMENTAKY  HISTOKY. 

19.  Mr.  Johannes  Grobp,  from  Taney  town. 

20.  "     Heinrich  Geissenheiner,  from  Pikeland. 

21.  "     Fried.  Wilhelm  Jasinsky,  from  Friedrichstown. 

22.  "     Heinrich  A.  Muhlenberg,  from  Reading. 

Candidates  Present. 

1.  Mr.  Johannes  Herbst,  from  Fissel's  Cong.,  York  County. 

2.  "  Carl  Stock. 

3.  "  Johannes  G.  Roller. 

4.  "  Georg  Buttler,  from  Wythe  County,  Virginia. 

5.  "  Friedrich  Moller,  from  Chambersburg. 

6.  "  Friedrich  Sanno,  from  Carlisle. 

7.  "  Wilhelm  Scriba. 

8.  "  Johannes  Knoske,  from  Pinegrove  Township. 

9.  "  Conrad  Rieman,  from  York  County. 

10.  "     Friedrich  Plitt,  from  Pikeland. 

11.  "     Petersen,  from  Harrisburg. 

Catechists  Present. 

1.  Mr.  Friedrich  Haas,  from  Huntingdon. 

2.  "     J.  Nicolaus  Mensch,  from  Springfield. 

Delegates  Present  with  Credentials. 

1.  Mr.  Peter  Lex,  from  Philadelphia. 

2.  "  Georg  Krebs,  from  Philadelphia. 

3.  "  Jacob  Ledder,  from  Yorktown. 

4.  "  Jacob  Hehns,  from  Hagerstown. 

5.  "  Antony  Kannine,  from  Lebanon. 

6.  "  Johannes  Beilsen,  from  Easton. 

7.  "  Johannes  Frey,  from  Germantown. 

8.  u  Georg  Adam  Blanck,  from  New  Hanover. 

9.  "  Michael  Schloneker,  from  Pikeland. 

10.  "  Nicolaus  Schweyer,  from  Taneytown. 

11.  "  Johannes  Ruhl,  from  Fissel's  congregation,  York  Co. 

12.  "  Peter  Schott,  from  Harrisburg. 

13.  "  Johannes  Stein,  from  Pinegrove  Township. 

*  Absent  Ordained  Preachers  : 

1.  Dr.  Joh.  Christoph  Kunze,  New  York.  2.  Mr.  Christian  Streit, 
Winchester,  Virginia.  3.  Mr.  Wilhelm  Zimmerman,  or  Carpenter, 
Culpepper,  Virginia.  4.  Mr.  Paul  Hinckel,  Rowan,  North  Carolina. 
5.  Mr.  Johannes  Folz,  Virginia.    6.  Mr.  Johan  Caspar  Diehl.    7.  Mr. 


FIFfY-ElGHTH  CONVENTION,   1805.  351 

Johannes  Stauch,  Fayette  County.  8.  Mr.  Georg  Griil)er,  Middletown, 
Maryland.  9.  Mr.  Adolph  Spindler,  Stanton.  10.  Mr.  Georg  Flohr, 
Virginia.     11.  Mr.  Wilhelni  Ilgen. 

Absent  Candidates: 

1.  Mr.  Friedrich  Obenhauss.  2.  Mr.  Johan.  Fried.  Wilhelni  Lange, 
Berlin.     3.  Mr.  Johannes  Michael  Steck,  Griinsburg. 

Letters  of  excuse  were  sent  by : 

1.  Mr.  Wilhelm  Zimmerman  [Carpenter].  2.  Mr.  Joh.  Michael  Steck. 
This  was  accompanied  by  a  favorable  written  testimonial  from  his  con- 
gregations. 3.  Mr.  Georg  Daniel  Flohr.  4.  Mr.  Lud.  Albrecht  Wil- 
helm Ilgen. — Promises  a  contribution  to  the  institution  for  the  education 
of  young  preachers,  etc.  5.  Mr.  Friedrich  Wilhelm  Lange.  This 
was  accompanied  by  a  favorable  written  testimonial  from  his  congrega- 
tions. 6.  Mr.  Georg  Graber.  This  letter  had  remained  in  the  Post 
Office.  It  was  accompanied  by  a  contribution  to  the  institution,  etc. 
7.  Mr.  Johannes  Folz.  8.  Mr.  Johannes  Stauch.  This  letter  is  dated 
May  9,  1805  ;  but  was  only  received  after  the  Synodical  Meeting. 

Mr.  Jacob  Goering  reported  the  death  of  the  beloved  Candidate,  Mr. 
Georg  Simon,  from  the  State  of  Ohio. 

The  election  of  officers  of  the  Ministerium  was  held. 

Dr.  Just.  Heinrich  Christian  Helmuth  was  elected  President  for  the 
coming  year,  and  Mr.  Jacob  Goering,  Secretary. 

The  written  reports  handed  in  were  presented  and  noted. 

Report  was  made  of  the  Special  Conferences : 

1.  In  the  Philadelphia  District  there  was  no  conference. 

2.  In  the  Eastern  District  a  conference  was  held.  Sermons  and  edi- 
fying discussions  were  held. 

3.  In  the  Lancaster  District  a  conference  was  held.  Its  record  has 
been  presented  to  the  Synodical  Meeting. 

4.  In  the  Yorktown  District  no  conference  was  held. 

5.  In  the  Baltimore  District  a  conference  was  held,  and  the  members 
edified  themselves. 

6.  Of  the  Western  District,  no  report  has  been  received. 

7.  In  the  Virginia  District  a  conference  was  held.  Its  record  is 
printed. 

A  letter  from  Doctor  Muhlenberg  to  the  President,  and  the  record  of 
the  Special  Conference  in  the  Lancaster  District  were  read.  Motion: 
That  the  titles  of  the  pastors  now  appearing  in  the  Constitution  be 
changed,  so  that  then'  may  be  three  orders,  viz.:  Catechists,  Diaconi, 
Pa-tores.  Resolved,  That  this  motion  be  referred  to  the  Ministerial 
Meeting ;  there  it  was  forgotten  ! 


352  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

A  letter  from  Wein rich's  Church,  in  Dauphin  County,  was  read  ;  con- 
taining a  petition  that  it  might  be  served  by  Mr.  Petersen.  Mr.  Ernst 
said  that  he  was  content  that  Mr.  Petersen  should  serve  it.  The  Synod 
resolved  to  grant  this  petition,  in  case  Mr.  Petersen's  license  was 
renewed. 

A  complaint  from  Loudon  County  in  Virginia,  against  Mr.  Georg 
Griiber  was  read.  Resolved,  That  this  complaint  be  referred  to  the 
Special  Conference  in  the  Baltimore  District,  to  which  Rev.  Mr.  Griiber 
belongs ;  that  the  letter  of  complaint  be  handed  to  Rev.  Mr.  Kurz, 
who  shall  give  Mr.  Graber  timely  notice  of  it,  and  shall  lay  it  before 
the  Special  Conference ;  and  that  Mr.  Lochmann  also  write  to  the  com- 
plainants concerning  it. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

Monday,  June  10th,  p.m. 

A  letter  from  the  United  Congregations  in  Whitpain,  Gwynedd 
and  Hilltown  in  Montgomery  County,  brought  by  Messrs.  Heinrich 
Hallinan,  Jacob  Schwenck  and  Johannes  Brunner.  They  have  called 
Mr.  J.  Rebenack  as  their  preacher,  and  ask  for  the  approval  of  the  Synod. 
Resolved,  That  the  resolution  of  last  year,  referring  to  Mr.  Rebenack, 
be  copied  and  given  the  delegates  from  Whitpain,  etc.,  and  that  it  be 
left  to  the  congregations  named  to  do  as  they  considered  best. 

A  letter  from  Philadelphia,  signed  by  Messrs.  Lorenz  Seckel,  George 
A.  Becker,  Johannes  Graff,  P.  Muhlenberg  [Gen.  Peter  Muhlenberg], 
with  various  printed  documents  referring  to  the  same  matter  was  read. 
In  the  letter  questions  were  put  to  the  Synodical  Meeting,  of  which  the 
following  were  of  real  importance : 

"  1.  Whether  the  Lutheran  Congregation  which  built  the  church 
acts  unwisely,  in  permitting  worship  and  instruction  in  the  language  of 
the  country  along  side  of  the  German,  if  it  once  has  called  itself  a  Ger- 
man congregation  ?  " 

"  2.  Which  is  the  more  advisable,  that  this  congregation  remain 
united  as  hitherto,  or  that  it  be  divided  into  two  entirely  distinct  parts  ?  " 

Sound  reason  and  honest  conscientiousness  can  answer  these  questions 
without  the  assistance  of  a  Synodical  Meeting.  Where  the  use  of  two 
languages  in  one  congregation  has  become  necessary,  the  congregation 
must  divide  and  form  two  congregations,  or  parties  will  arise,  which 
continually  will  provoke  and  vex  each  other.  But  this  easy  and  ob- 
vious truth  seemed  to  have  been  concealed  from  the  eyes  of  the  ques- 
tioners. This  blindness,  may  possibly  be  due  to  the  fact,  that  they  con- 
ceived a  shocking  opinion  of  the  Germans,  who  come  into  this  land  of 
milk  and  honey.     Their  idea  of  them  is  expressed  as  follows : 


FIFTY-EIGHTH  CONVENTION,   1805.  353 

"  If  our  descendants  receive  no  instruction  in  the  language  they  un- 
derstand, they  cannot  be  continued  or  become  members  of  the  eon- 
gn  gation,  and  so  the  newly  arrived  Germans  and  Hollander.-,  who  were 
picked  up  in  the  houses  of  correction  in  Amsterdam  and  transported  to 
Baltimore  and  other  places,  would  have  better  chance  of  becoming 
members  of  the  congregations  than  our  children  and  children's  children." 

The  motion  was  made  and  seconded:  That  a  committee  be  chosen  to 
deliberate  upon  the  present  matter  concerning  the  use  of  the  German 
and  English  languages  in  German  churches,  and  report  to  the  Synod. 
This  was  approved,  and  Messrs.  Melsheimer,  Kurtz,  Geissenheiner, 
Plitt,  (ioering,  Krebs,  Schmucker,  Beil,  Ledder  were  appointed  to  be 
this  committee. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer.  This  evening  Mr.  Knoske 
preached. 

Tuesday,  June  11th,  a.m. 

Opened  with  prayer. 

The  above-named  committee  brought  in  its  report,  of  which  the  fol- 
lowing is  a  copy : 

"  Germantow-n,  June  11,  1S05. 

"  The  committee  named  to  suggest  general  principles,  according  to 
which  the  Synod  should  act  in  disputes  concerning  the  English  and 
German  languages,  met  at  six  o'clock  in  the  parsonage,  and  chose  Rev. 
Mr.  Melsheimer  chairman,  and  Rev.  Mr.  Plitt  secretary.  They  agreed 
to  present  the  following  propositions  to  the  Reverend  Synodical  Meeting: 

"  1.  That  the  present  Lutheran  Ministerium  in  Pennsylvania  and  the 
adjacent  States  must  remain  a  German-speaking  Miuisterium,  and  that 
no  regulation  can  be  adopted,  which  would  necessitate  the  use  of  another 
language  besides  the  German  in  its  Synodical  Meetings  and  business. 

"2.  That  English-speaking  Lutherans  who  do  not  understand  the 
German  service  may  form  themselves  into  separate  congregations. 

"3.  Should  such  English  Lutheran  congregations  be  established,  the 
German  Lutheran  Ministerium  regards  their  members  as  its  brethren, 
and  is  willing  to  recognize  their  delegates,  and  also,  after  examination, 
their  preachers,  as  members  of  the  Synod,  if  they  submit  to  its  order, 
and  attend  the  Synodical  Meetings." 

The  first  of  the  above  propositions  was  read,  and  it  was  moved  and 
seconded  :  That  it  be  accepted  without  change.  This  was  unanimously 
agreed  to. 

The  second  was  read,  and  it  was  moved  that  it  be  accepted  without 
change.     Unanimously  agreed. 

The  third  was  read,  and  the  motion  made  :  That  it  be  accepted  with- 
out change.     This  also  was  unanimously  agreed  to. 
23 


354  DOCUMENT AEY  HISTORY. 

It  was  now  moved :  That  the  above  three  propositions  in  the  report 
of  the  committee  be  regarded  as  a  supplement  to  our  Constitution,  and 
be  added  to  it.     Unanimously  adopted. 

Moved :  That  the  entire  Synod  form  itself  into  a  committee  of  the 
whole,  and  have  the  entire  letter  which  some  members  of  the  congrega- 
tion in  Philadelphia  had  handed  to  the  Synod  read,  and  take  it  up 
seriatim.     This  was  unanimously  agreed  to. 

The  business  thus  determined  upon  was  immediately  taken  up  and 
transacted. 

A  committee  was  appointed  to  prepare  an  answer  to  the  letter  which 
some  members  of  the  congregation  in  Philadelphia  had  handed  to  the 
Synod,  and  to  present  it  to  the  Synod.  Messrs.  Melsheimer,  Endress, 
Kurz,  Goering,  Frey  and  Beil  were  named  as  the  committee. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

Tuesday,  June  11th,  p.m. 

Resolved,  That  Rev.  Mr.  Schmidt,  who  is  still  serving  as  Treasurer  of 
last  year,  remains  Treasurer  this  year  also. 

The  list  of  baptised,  etc.,  was  handed  in,  and  follows,  opposite  the 
names  of  the  various  preachers : 

Communi- 
Baptized.      Confirmed.  cants.  Funerals.     Schools. 

Mr.  Schultz —  —  —  —  — 

Helmuth —  —  —  —  — 

Schmidt —  —  — :  —  — 


Muehlenberg,D.D. 

.   149 

61 

453 

40 

1 

155 

79 

797 

39 

7 

.    134 

87 

344 

— 

5 

Melsheimer   .    .    . 

.     84 

57 

346 

35 

2 

.    126 

21 

318 

51 

1 

75 

35 

276 

27 

2 

.   103 

44 

240 

18 

6 

P.  Geisenheiuer    . 

151 

102 

689 

26 

5 

.    147 

91 

674 

55 

5 

Schmucker    .    .    . 

.    137 

41 

410 

119 

4 

.   127 

65 

647 

32 

4 

104 

55 

211 

23 

6 

.   168 

89 

274 

38 

2 

.     33 

— 

205 

8 

2 

J.  Plitt  ..... 

.    174 

74 

539 

21 

4 

H.  Geisenheiuer  . 

.     80 

25 

250 

15 

2 

.   148 

63 

183 

75 

2 

FIFTY-EIGHTH  CONVENTION,  1805.  355 


Communi- 

Baptized. 

Confirmed. 

cants. 

Funerals. 

Schools. 

Mr.  Moeller  .... 

.     .       — 

20 

109 

31 

2 

"    Herbst  .... 

.    .   135 

48 

298 

16 

3 

"    Stock 

"     Rocller  .... 

.    .    103 

76 

505 

21 

3 

"     Buttler.    .    .    . 

.    .     84 

— 

50 

1 

2 

.    .   368 

— 

208 

37 

3 

"     Scriba    .... 

.    .     53 

26 

06 

12 

0 

45 

317 

21 

5 

.    .     88 

14 

131 

10 

2 

"     F.  Plitt  .... 

.    .     51 

25 

197 

9 

3 

.    .    117 

56 

114 

32 

2 

"     Haas 

.    .     43 

22 

18 

10 

0 

.    .     78 

35 

— 

7 

3 

"     Walter  .... 

.    .    102 

— 

— 

17 

1 

.    .    271 

95 

203 

46 

— 

"     Flour  [Flohr]  . 

.    .    115 

16 

171 

6 

4 

"     Foltz 

.    .    108 

35 

207 

8 

— 

.    .   284 

8 

367 

10 

— 

The  contributions  for  the  institution  for  the  education  of  young 
preachers  were  handed  to  the  Treasurer,  and  were  as  follows.  Handed 
in  by: 

Th.  Cn. 

Messrs.  Krebs  and  Lex,  from  Philadelphia 115  6£ 

Mr.  Kurz,  from  Baltimore 60         00 

"     J.  Frey,  from  Germantown,  Frankford  and  Barren 

Hill 33         55* 

"     F.  Geisenheiner,  from  New  Hanover     .    .    .15  th.  | 

New  Goschenhoppen     7  th.  J 
"     Aut.  Carmine,  from  Lebanon,  Berg  and  Ziegel  church, 

Campbell's,  Bindnagel's  and  Jonestown 55  3 h 

"     J.  Hehns,  from  Hagerstown   ....  20  th.  00  cn.  ■>> 

Sharpsburg   ....    7  th.  40  cn.  I         „ 
Funckstown  ....    6  th.  50  cn.  f 
Cannoquocheak    .    .    8  th.  00  cn.  J 
"     Rothrauff,  from  Greencastle,  Emmetstown,  Apfel's, 

Scherer's,  Martin's,  Falling  Spring,  Bartle's  ...      47         31 
"     Schlouncker,  from  Pikeland,  Eastnautmill,  and  Amity     22         00 

"     Rocller,  from  Old  Goschenhoppen 11  2 

"     Knoske,  from  Jacob's   church,  Salem's,  Zion's,  Jo- 

hannis,  and  Paulus  church 19         23 


356  DQCUMENTAKY  HISTOEY. 

Th.  Cn. 

Mr.  F.  Plitt 12        00 

"     Mensch,  from  Springfield 3  th.  00  cn.  | 

aud  Keller's 3  th.  16  cn-  j 

"     Walter,  from  Kaus,  Silsgrove,  Hessinger's,  Mohr's 

and  Breirmau's  church 15         32 

"     Goering,  from  Creutzkrick 5  th.  91    cn.  "\ 

Schakelin 5  th.  60*  cn.  !■      17         37i 

Quicker's 5  th.  86?  cn. ) 

"     Griiber,  from  Middletown,  etc 16  th.  47    cn. 

Deducted  for  postage 00  th.  25    cn. 

—        —  16        22 

The  following  resolutions  were  drawn  up  and  approved : 

That  it  be  recommended  to  those  congregations  which  have  not  yet 
contributed  to  the  institution,  that  they  collect  money  for  this  purpose, 
and  send  it  to  the  Treasurer  of  the  Synodical  Meeting,  Pastor  Schmidt 
in  Philadelphia. 

That  each  preacher  whose  congregation  contributed  to  this  fund, 
thank  them  most  solemnly  in  the  name  of  the  entire  Synod.  The  fol- 
lowing day  a  similar  resolution  was  again  passed. 

A  letter  of  excuse  from  Friedrichstown  was  then  read,  in  which  they 
state  the  reason  why  they  sent  no  contribution ;  but  promise  to  send  one 
in  the  future. 

A  similar  letter  from  Reading  was  read,  and  one  like  it  from  Lan- 
caster, in  English,  only  with  this  difference,  that  this  congregation  does 
not  consider  it  advisable  to  contribute  anything,  unless  young  men  be 
educated  so  as  to  be  able  to  preach  also  in  English. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer.  This  evening  Mr.  Grobp 
preached  on  I  Cor.  15 :  58. 

Wednesday,  June  12th,  a.m. 

Opened  at  8  o'clock  with  prayer. 

It  was  Resolved,  That  a  committee  of  two  preachers  and  one  delegate 
be  named,  to  confer  with  a  printer  concerning  the  publishing  of  a 
Monthly,  which  shall  especially  contain  extracts  from  Luther's  writings. 

Messrs.  Helmuth,  Schafer  and  Krebswere  named  a  committee  to 
attend  to  this  work. 

It  was  moved  and  agreed  to  appoint  traveling  preachers,  who  shall 
make  a  tour  each  year. 

Moved  and  agreed,  that  the  congregations  in  Wallpack,  Newton, 
Knowlton  and  Hard  wick,  in  Sussex  County  in  New  Jersey,  shall  be  vis- 
ited.    Mr.  Endress  shall  visit  them. 


FIFTY-EIGHTH   CONVENTION,   1805.  357 

Si  wived,  That  Mr.  Sanno  may  visit  several  vacant  congregations  in 
his  neighborhood,  without,  however,  neglecting  his  present  congregations. 

//'  solved,  That  Mr.  Knoske  shall  visit  the  congregations  in  Cotovesse, 
[Catawissa]  Sunbury  and  Mundsen. 

Bi  solved^  That  one  district  for  a  traveling  preacher  shall  be  the  cir- 
cuit from  the  so-called  Head  of  Holston  in  Virginia,  to  Knoxville  in 
the  State  of  Tennessee.  Mr.  Buttler  is  named  traveling  preacher  for 
this  District. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Ugen  shall  visit  the  congregations  in  Bald  Castle, 
Gross  Eyland,  Buffalo  Valley,  Diiverstown,  and  two  congregations  in 
Fantzea  Valley,  viz. :  Lan gen's  Church  and  Dubbsen's  Church. 

Moved,  that  a  traveling  preacher  be  named  for  the  District  called 
New  Pennsylvania  (in  the  State  of  Ohio),  from  the  Capital  New 
Madrid,  to  Lake  Erie.  This  motion  was  approved  and  Mr.  Forster  was 
appointed. 

Moved,  that  a  traveling  preacher  be  appointed  for  the  District  of 
"Wilkesbarre  and  the  neighboring  congregations.  This  motion  was  ap- 
proved and  Mr.  Herbst  was  appointed. 

Resolved,  That  the  visiting  preachers  be  furnished  with  letters  of  rec- 
ommendation to  the  congregations  by  the  President  and  Secretary. 

Resolved,  That  the  President  and  Secretary  shall  give  the  traveling 
preachers  written  instructions. 

Resolved,  That  forty  dollars  a  month  be  allowed  each  traveling 
preacher,  and  that  one  month's  salary  shall  be  paid  in  advance. 

/,'.  olved,  That  hearty  thanks  be  rendered  by  the  Synod  to  each  congre- 
gation, for  the  generous  contribution,  which  is  intended  for  the  further- 
ance of  the  plan  for  the  instruction  of  young  preachers,  etc.  The  liberal 
givers  will  be  gratified  to  learn,  that  three  traveling  preachers  have 
already  been  named,  who,  supported  by  this  contribution,  shall  visit  the 
forsaken  and  vacant  congregations,  and  gather  congregations. 

The  committee  which  had  been  named,  brought  in  a  reply  to  the  let- 
ter which  some  members  of  the  congregations  had  handed  into  the 
Synod.  This  was  read,  and  considered  by  the  entire  Synod.  It  reads 
as  follows : 

Germaxtown,  June  12th,  1805. 
Most  Honorable  Sirs: 

Dear  Friends  and  Brethren : — We,  the  members  of  the 
Bynodical  ( '(invention,  render  thanks  for  the  confidence  which  you  show 
towards  the  Synod,  and  make  the  following  reply  to  your  esteemed 
letter. 

I.  The  Synod  recognizes  the  importance  of  the  relation  in  which  it 
stands  with  reference  to  the  Lutherans  who  speak  German,  and  the 


358  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Lutherans  who  can  speak  and  understand  only  English ;  it  has  therefore, 
after  much  meditation  drawn  up  and  adopted  as  part  of  the  Constitution 
the  following  resolutions,  from  which  the  sentiment  of  the  Synod  appears, 
and  which,  we  hope,  will  also  be  approved  by  all  well-disposed  persons. 

1.  That  the  present  Lutheran  Ministerium  in  Pennsylvania  and  ad- 
joining States  must  remain  a  German-speaking  Ministerium,  and  that 
no  arrangement  can  be  accepted  which  necessitates  the  use  of  any  other 
language  alongside  the  German  in  its  Synodical  Meetings  and  trans- 
actions. 

2.  That  English-speaking  Lutherans  who  do  not  understand  the 
German  service,  may  form  themselves  into  separate  congregations. 

3.  Should  such  Lutheran  congregations  be  established,  the  German- 
Lutheran  Ministerium  regards  their  members  as  its  brethren,  and  is 
willing  to  recognize  their  delegates,  and,  after  examination,  their  preach- 
ers, as  members  of  the  Synod,  if  they  submit  to  its  order,  and  attend 
the  Synodical  Meetings. 

II.  And  as  they  have  presented  questions  to  us,  they  will  find  our 
answers  written  in  the  same  order,  in  which  their  questions  appear.  In 
these  we  refer  to  their  letter  in  order  to  avoid  prolixity. 

1.  We  gladly  believe  that  the  Gospel  is  not  limited  to  any  of  the 
existing  languages ;  nevertheless,  a  people  may  without  injustice  have  a 
preference  for  one  language,  and  desire  to  retain  it,  especially  if  it  is 
accustomed  to  conduct  its  worship  in  this  language,  if  it  possesses  dear, 
precious,  devotional  books  in  that  language,  and  believes  other  moral 
advantages  to  be  connected  with  it. 

2.  It  is  certainly  nothing  harmful  if  a  person  understands  many  lan- 
guages ;  but  also  nothing  unchristian  if  one  is  prepossessed  in  favor  of  the 
German  language,  especially  if  it  is  the  language  of  his  fathers,  which 
they  used  in  their  worship  of  God,  and  he  must  fear  that  his  mother 
tongue  might  finally  be  entirely  crowded  out. 

3.  AVhether  a  transaction  be  wise  or  unwise  becomes  evident  from 
its  fruits  and  results ;  where,  for  example,  a  congregation  is  disturbed 
and  divided  because  of  the  introduction  of  a  language,  there  such  intro- 
duction cannot  with  good  reason  be  considered  as  a  wise  measure. 

4.  Where  a  congregation  is  too  large,  or  cannot  agree,  reasons  may 
arise  which  render  it  advisable  for  it  to  separate  in  two  or  more  congre- 
gations. Because  of  hard-heartedness  Moses  considered  it  well  to  allow 
separation  even  between  married  people,  and  Abraham  said  to  Lot, 
Gen.  13:  8  and  9,  "Let  there  be  no  strife,  I  pray  thee,  between  me 
and  thee,  and  between  my  herdmen  and  thy  herdmen;  for  we  be 
brethren.  Is  not  the  whole  land  before  thee  ?  Separate  thyself,  I  pray 
thee,  from  me." 


FIFTY-EIGIITII  CONVENTION,  1805.  359 

5.  Where  people  are  able  to  form  themselves  into  a  separate  congre- 
gation, and  can  in  peace  and  mutual  agreement  retain  one  church  in 
which  to  conduct  their  beautiful  and  beneficent  service,  they  act  neither 
rightly  nor  kin<  11  y  if  they  neglect  or  even  refuse  such  good  opportunity. 

6.  The  expression  "German  Evangelical  Lutheran  Doctrine"  is 
unusual,  and  should  any  one  have  used  it,  it  may  perhaps  have  been 
in  opposition  to  the  English  Episcopal  Church  (which  many  out  of 
ignorance  call  Lutheran  and  English  Lutheran)  or  in  order  to  refer  to 
the  character  and  purity  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  doctrine  as  it 
first  became  known  among  the  Germans,  and  has  now  so  long  main- 
tained itself  successfully  among  them. 

We  know  their  doctrine,  and  it  is  difficult  for  us  to  believe  that  they 
would  obligate  a  child  to  remain  true  to  the  Lutheran  doctrine,  if  they 
have  made  no  effort,  and  have  not  sought  to  make  clear  to  it  what  the 
Lutheran  doctrine  is ;  such  reproaches  are  really  sad.  Parents  who 
speak  German  can  very  easily  teach  their  own  language  to  their  chil- 
dren, and  it  would  not  be  without  value  :  but  if  they  neglect  this,  and 
their  children  therefore  receive  no  such  complete  instruction,  as  the 
children  of  those  who  have  acted  differently,  the  blame  must  be  laid 
upon  the  parents,  and  not  upon  the  pastors.  We  flatter  ourselves  and 
believe,  not  without  reason,  that  no  Christian  denomination  has  a 
better  system  of  instruction  for  children  than  the  German  Lutherans, 
and  it  is  certainly  a  pity  if  it  is  neglected. 

If  we  understand  them  rightly,  they  seem  to  harbor  the  suspicion 
against  the  corporation  of  their  congregations,  that  they  wish  to  deal 
treacherously  with  them.  We  can  find  no  sufficient  ground  for  such 
suspicion  :  besides,  the  delegates  of  the  Philadelphia  congregations  have 
here  publicly  declared  that  there  is  no  just  reason  for  it.  Furthermore, 
it  is  also  certain  that  the  offer  of  the  corporation  should  necessarily 
have  been  put  into  the  form  of  a  legal  agreement  before  they,  as  intel- 
ligent men,  would  have  made  any  sacrifice  on  account  of  it.  Under 
such  cireumstances  deceit  is  not  easily  possible;  nevertheless  it  is  to  be 
regretted  that  people  who  should  love  each  other  as  brethren,  when 
they  disagree  immediately  think  evil  of  each  other,  and  attack  one 
another  with  accusations. 

The  desire  to  accuse  the  pastors  may  be  common,  and  many  people 
may  he  ready  with  it ;  but  it  was  nevertheless  surprising  and  mortify  - 
ng  to  us  to  find  such  in  your  letter.  We  cannot  account  it  a  crime 
if  a  preacher  loves  his  mother-tongue,  and  exerts  himself  to  retain  it, 
especially  it'  he  believes  in  his  heart  that  this  will  be  an  advantage  to 
his  religion  ;  hut  of  this,  enough. 

Your  pastors  are  men,  but  no  wicked  men.     We  know  them  a  long 


3G0  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

time  already,  and  have  reason  to  prize  them  highly.  The  day  will 
come  when  the  counsel  of  all  hearts  will  be  revealed, — all  random 
accusations  must,  by  their  own  nature,  be  referred  to  that  day,  on  which 
the  Judge  will  decide,  who  comes  and  his  reward  is  with  Him,  to  give 
every  man  according  as  his  work  shall  be. 

Upon  questions  referring  to  property  rights,  privileges,  or  such  other 
inner  affairs  of  a  congregation,  the  Synod  cannot  enter,  because  this 
would  be  against  its  purpose.  In  this  matter  it  refers  to  the  example 
of  the  Lord  Jesus,  who  replied  to  a  question  of  this  kind  :  "  Who  made 
me  a  judge  or  divider  over  you  ?"  Luke  12  :  14. 

The  God  of  peace  be  with  you,  and  sanctify  you  and  us  wholly.  So 
far  the  answer  which  was  drawn  up. 

Hereupon  it  was  unanimously  Resolved,  That  this  answer  to  the  letter 
of  some  members  of  the  Philadelphia  congregation,  drawn  up  by  a 
committee,  and  duly  deliberated  upon  by  the  entire  Synod,  be  entirely 
approved  and  accepted,  and  that  the  Secretary  shall  send  to  the  friends 
in  Philadelphia,  who  sent  the  letter  to  the  Synod,  a  copy  of  this  answer 
from  the  Protocol. 

Hereupon  the  choice  of  the  next  meeting  was  held.  Hagerstown 
was  appointed  as  the  place,  and  Trinity  Sunday  as  the  time  of  the  next 
Synodical  Meeting. 

The  Synodical  Meeting  was  ended  with  singing  and  with  earnest  and 
devout  prayer,  during  which  the  members  knelt. 


A  note  will  not,  we  hope,  be  taken  amiss.  This  Synodical  Meeting 
was  one  of  the  most  remarkable.  Its  history  is  worthy  of  being  pre- 
served for  posterity.  The  ruling  presence  of  the  Lord  was  evident. 
Earnest  and  heai'tfelt  prayers — so  many  men  present — and,  as  is  easily 
imagined,  great  differences  of  opinions  and  inclinations — new  and 
important  matters  to  be  treated  of — and  yet  the  love  of  peace  pre- 
vailed, and  all  business  was  transacted  with  a  wonderful  harmony  and 
unanimity. 

Due  liaise  be  to  the  glory  of  the  Lord. 


ACTS  OF  THE  MINISTERIAL  MEETING. 

Held  at  Germantown. 


June  12,  1805,  p.m. 

1.  A  letter  from  Mr.  Georg  Liebich  was  read.     He  is  a  Lutheran 
preacher,  and  asked  for  assistance  to  go  to  the  West  Indies.  The  preachers 


FIFTY-EIGHTH   CONVENTION,  1805.  3G1 

lifted  a  collection  among  themselves  for  him,  which  amounted  to  17| 
dollars. 

2.  Letters  referring  to  Mr.  J.  Conrad  Walter  were  read.  Testi- 
monials and  call  for  him  from  the  congregations,  Seliusgrove,  Hows, 
I  la-singer's,  Bcaverdam,  Bauermann  and  More.  Messrs.  Dr.  Helmuth 
and  Lochman  give  him  good  testimonials.  Resolved,  That  Messrs. 
Lochman,  Schmucker  and  Endress  examine  him. 

3.  Resolved,  That  John  Friedrich  Melsheimer,  son  of  Rev.  Mr.  Mel- 
sheimer,  be  recognized  by  the  Ministerium  as  a  catechist. 

4.  Letters  from  the  congregations  in  Huntingdon,  Weigemerck,  Spruce 
Creek,  ( )l>wall  Township,  Tyrone  Township,  were  read.  Call  and  testi- 
monials for  Mr.  Friedrich  Haas.  Resolved,  That  a  full  candidate's 
license  be  granted  him. 

5.  Letters  from  the  congregations,  Keller's,  Tinicum,  Nockamixon 
and  Springfield.  Call  and  testimonials  for  Mr.  J.  Nicolaus  Mensch. 
Resolved,  That  a  full  candidate's  license  be  granted  him. 

G.  Letter  from  Mr.  Joh.  Daniel  Dickhand,  school-teacher  in  German- 
town.  His  son  desires  to  study  theology.  Resolved,  Tnat  he  be  advised 
to  continue  his  studies,  and  receive  instruction  from  Rev.  Mr.  Schmucker. 

7.  Letters,  testimonials  and  call  for  Mr.  David  Kessler,  in  Cumber- 
land County.  Mr.  Kessler  could  not  be  present  because  of  sickness. 
Resolved,  That  this  matter  be  referred  to  the  President  and  Secretary. 

8.  Letters,  testimonials  and  call  for  Mr.  Joh.  Paul  Ferdinand  Cramer, 
from  the  congregations,  Lykensthal,  Hochwcrthers,  Mahanoy.  Re- 
solved, That  after  due  examination,  a  catechist's  license  be  granted  to  Mr. 
Cramer. 

9.  Letters  from  Bucket's  Creek  and  Canshannick  Creek  for  Mr. 
Adam  Ahns. 

10.  Resolved,  That  Mr.  Walter  he  licensed  a  candidate. 

1 1 .  Resolved,  That  Messrs.  Johannes  Herbst,  Friedrich  M  oiler,  Johann 
Georg  Buttler  and  Johann  Georg  Roeller  shall  be  ordained. 

The  Ministerial  Meeting  was  closed  with  singing  and  prayer. 
The  ordination  took  place  in  the  evening  in  the  church. 
This  is  witnessed  by 

J.  Heinr.  Cn.  Helmuth. 

President. 
Jacob  Goerim;. 

A.  t.  Secretary. 


FIFTY-NINTH   CONVENTION. 

1806. 


ACTS  OF  THE  MINISTERIAL  MEETING. 

Held  at  Elizabeth,  or  Hagerstown,  in  the  State  of  Maryland,  on 
June  1st  and  the  following  days,  a.d.  1806. 

On  Sunday,  June  1st,  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  church  in  Hagerstown 
was  consecrated.  On  the  Saturday  preceding,  Mr.  Adolph  Spindler 
preached  on  Acts  15  :  9.  On  Sunday  morning  Dr.  Helmuth  preached 
in  the  Lutheran  church  on  Haggai  2  :  20 ;  Mr.  Daniel  Kurtz  in  the 
Reformed  church,  on  I  Thess.  5:9.  In  the  afternoon,  Dr.  Muhlen- 
berg in  the  Lutheran  church,  on  II  Pet.  1 :  10.  In  the  Reformed 
church,  Mr.  Georg  Lochmann,  on  Mark  7 :  34,  35.  In  the  evening, 
Mr.  F.  D.  Schaeffer,  on  Jude  5 :  20,  in  the  Lutheran  church. 

June  2d,  a.m. 
In  the  morning,  at  seven  o'clock,  the  preachers  assembled  in  the 
church,  and  the  contributions  to  the  Synodical  Treasury  were  handed  in : 

Mr.  Adam  Kraber,  from  Yorktown $22.00 

"     Nicolaus  Gelwicks,  from  Hanover : 

Hanover £4    6s.  3d. 

Ziegler's £3    0s.  6d. 

Jacob's £1  15s.  9d. 

David's £1    4s.  8d. 

£10    7s.  2d.  or     $27.63 
"     Jacob  Embich,  from  Lebanon : 
Lebanon,   Bergkirche,  Jones- 
town, Campbellstown,  Ziegel- 

kirche  and  Bindnagel's    .    .  £13    3s.  2*d.  or  $35.09* 
"     Solomon  Hinckel,  from  New  Market    .    .    .  3.12* 

Dr.  Peter  "Woltz,  from  Williamsport 6.59* 

Mr.  Thomas  Heist : 

From  Winchester $15.12* 

"      Staufferstown 7.78 

"      Pennsbrook 3.38* 

"     Neustadt 3.43* 

$29.72*  29.72* 

362 


FIFTY-NINTH  CONVENTION,  1806.  363 

Mr.  Jacob   Noes,   from   Peter's,   Solomon's,   and 

Steiner's  church $15.00 

"     Johann  Plitt : 

From  New  Holland $8.00 

"      Bergstrasse 8.00 

"      Muddy  Creek 10.27 

"      Alleghany 11.02 

"      Forest 6.74 

"      Pequea 8.00 

$52.03  52.03 

"     Christian  Kugel : 

From  Middletown $2.40 

"      Ringer's 1.51 

"      Geber's 1.51 

"      Trapp 1.90 

$7.32  7.32 

"     Friedrich  Henger,  Augusta  County  (Virg.)  : 

From  Johanniskirche 4.35 

"     Georg  Flohr,  Wythe  County  (Virg.)  : 

Greenbriar $9.75 

Evansham 8.00 

Kernmerlings 2.75 

Priessens 2.50 

Schnebely's 50 

$23.50  23.50 

"     Georg  Hahn,  York  County  (Penna.)  : 

Ziou's $2.03 

Fissel's 2.08 

Sattler's 2.30 

Schuster's 2.00 

$8.41  8.41 

'■     Johann  Knoske  (Zion's) 8.50  850 

"     Conrad  Rieinann  (York  County)  : 

Bteltzen'a $1.50 

Btahley'a 5.00 

Frey's 3.00 

Salem's 3.50 

$13.00  13.00 

"     Adam  Mang  (Huntingdon)  ....    10  90  10.90 


364  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Mr.  Nicolaus  Mensch : 

Springfield $2.13 

Nocomixon 1.52 

Additional 05 

$3.70  $3.70 

"     Georg  Kessler  (Shamokin) : 

Kauen's      $2  50 

Selinsgrove 2.75 

Beaverdam 5.33 

Hassinger's 3.35 

$13.93  13.93 

"     Adam  Weiss,  Dauphin  Co.,  Penna. : 

Werth's $2.50 

Hohwerther's 2.00 

Fetterhave's      1.23 

$5.73  5.73 

"     Albrecht  Wilh.  Ilgen,  through  Mr.  Con.  Walter : 

Earley's, $5.00 

Meeting  House, 5.00 

Aaronsburg, 8.00 

Brush  Valley, 6.00 

Jungmanstown, 10.00 

Langstown, 10.00 

Dreysbach, 10.00 

$54.00  54.00 

"     Caspar  Dill,  through  Mr.  Christ.  Endress : 

Mount  Bethel, $3.01 

Hamilton, 1.56 

Plainfield, 1.79 

Moore  Township, 2.22 

$8.58  8.58 

"     Christian  Endress : 

Easton, $6  00 

Williams  Township, 6.50 

Lower  Saucon, 4.86  £ 

$17.36*        17.36* 
"     Georg  Buttler,  Traveling  Preacher 14.69 


FIFTY-NINTH   CONVENTION,  1806.  365 

June  2d,  a.m. 
Doctor  Helmuth  opened  the  Synod  with  prayer.     The  election  of 
officers    was   held.      President,  J.  C.  Heinrich   Helmuth ;    Secretary* 
Jacob  Goering  ;  Treasurer,  Friedrich  Schmidt. 

Preachers  Present. 

1.  J.  C.  Heinrich  Helmuth,  D.D.,  Philadelphia. 

2.  Heinrich  Muhlenberg,  D.D.,  Lancaster. 

3.  Christian  Streit,  Winchester,  Virginia. 

4.  Jacob  Goering,  Yorktown. 

5.  Fried.  Valentin  Melzheimer,  Hanover. 

6.  Daniel  Kurtz,  Baltimore. 

7.  Fried.  David  Schaeffer,  Germantown. 

8.  Wilhelm  Zimmermann,  Culpepper,  Virginia. 

9.  Paul  Hinckel,  New  Market,  Virginia. 

10.  Georg  Lochmann,  Lebanon. 

11.  Georg  Schmucker,  Hagerstown. 

12.  Conrad  Jiiger,  Northampton  County. 

13.  Johann  RuthraufF,  Greencastle. 

14.  Christian  Endx-ess,  Easton,  without  delegates  and  without  an  ex- 
cuse from  the  congregation. 

15.  Johann  Foltz,  Virginia. 

16.  Wilhelm    Forster,  Virginia,  without   delegates   and  without  an 
excuse  from  the  congregation. 

17.  Johann  Plitt,  New  Holland,  without  delegates,  but  with  an  ex- 
cuse from  the  congregation. 

18.  Heinrich  Aug.  Muhlenberg,  Reading,  without  delegates,  but  with 
an  excuse  from  the  congregations. 

19.  Johann  Stauch,  Fayette  County. 

20.  Johann  Grobp,  Tarrytown. 

21.  Georg  Kraber,  Mkldletown,  Maryland. 

22.  Adolph  Spindler,  Virginia. 

23.  Georg  Flohr,  Virginia,  without  delegates,  with  excuse  from  the 
congregation. 

24.  Fried.  Willi.  Jasinsky,  Friedrichstown. 

25.  Johann  Herbst,  York  County. 

26.  Friedrich  Moeller,  Chambersburg. 

27.  Joh.  Georg  Buttler,  Fort  Cumberland. 

Candidates  Present. 

1.  Job.  Fried.  Lange,  Somerset. 

2.  Job.  Michael  Steck,  Greensburg. 


366  DOCUMENTAEY  HISTOEY. 

3.  Carl  Stock,  without  delegates,  and  without  an  excuse  from  the 
congregation. 

4.  Friedrich  Sanno,  Carlisle. 

5.  Wilhelrn  Scriba,  without  delegates,  and  without  an  excuse  from 
the  congregation. 

6.  Johann  Knoske,  without  delegates,  with  an  excuse  from  the  con- 
gregation. 

7.  Conrad  Riemann,  York  County,  without  delegates,  with  an  ex- 
cuse from  the  congregation. 

8.  Joh.  Diedrich  Petersen,  Harrisburg,  without  delegates,  with  an 
excuse  from  the  congregation. 

9.  Friedrich  Haas,  Huntingdon. 

10.  Nicolaus  Mensch,  without  delegates,  with  an  excuse  from  the  con- 
gregation. 

11.  Joh.  Conrad  Walter. 

12.  Joh.  Paul  Ferdinand  Cramer. 

Catechists  Present. 

1.  Joh.  Friedrich  Melsheimer. 

2.  David  Kessler. 

Delegates  Present. 

1.  Friedrich  Hockley,  from  Philadelphia. 

2.  Jacob  Stahl,  Lancaster. 

3.  Thomas  Heist,  Winchester. 

4.  Adam  Kraeber,  Yorktown. 

5.  Nicolaus  Gelwicks,  Hanover. 

6.  Friedrich  Bendel,  Baltimore. 

7.  Fried.  Julius  Schaadt,  Culpepper. 

8.  Solomon  Hinckel,  New  Market. 

9.  Jacob  Embich,  Lebanon. 

10.  D.  Peter  Woltz,  Hagerstown. 

11.  Johann  Haffner,  Greencastle. 

12.  Jacob  Nees,  Solomon's  Church,  Virginia. 

13-  Adam  Schaeffer,  Monongahela  County,  Virginia. 

14.  Jacob  Schiitz,  Taneytown. 

15.  Christian  Kugel,  Middletown. 

16.  Friedrich  Henger,  Augusta  County. 

17.  Peter  Sultzer,  Friedrichtown. 

18.  Georg  Hahn,  Fissel's,  York  County. 

19.  Heinrich  Hofmann,  Chambersburg. 

20.  Heinrich  Stiirtzmann,  Fort  Cumberland. 


FIFTY-NINTH  CONVENTION,   1806.  367 

21.  Johann  Gebhardt,  Somerset.  Ilia  credentials  were  imperfect, 
but  by  a  majority  of  votes  he  was  recognized. 

22.  Jacob  Ruch,  Grecnsburg. 

23.  Johann  Kraber  was  also  recognized  by  vote  (from  Carlisle). 

24.  Adam  Mang,  Huntingdon. 

25.  Georg  Kesaler,  Middelburg  (with  Mr.  Walter). 

26.  Adam  Weiss,  Dauphin  County  (with  Mr.  Cramer). 

Letters  of  excuse  were  sent  by:  1.  Mr.  Johann  Ilgen ;  2.  Mr. 
Carl  Rebenack  requested  to  be  received  into  full  membership.  Good 
testimonials  from  his  congregations  were  added  ;  3.  Mr.  Friedrich  Plitt. 

The  reports  and  papers  were  handed  in.  The  Protocol  of  the  pre- 
ceding year  was  read. 

Mr.  Peter  Sutzer  [Sultzer]  from  Friedrichtown  reported  that  there 
are  disputes  in  the  congregation.  Messrs.  Fr.  David  Schaeffer,  Johann 
Plitt,  Friedrich  Hockely,  Adam  Kraber  and  Jacob  Stahl  were  named 
a  committee  to  investigate  these  ti'oubles. 

The  reports  of  the  special  committees  were  made : 

1.  In  the  Philadelphia  District,  no  conference.  2.  In  the  Easton 
District,  no  conference.  3.  In  the  Lancaster  District  a  conference  was 
held  at  Manheim.  The  business  had  for  its  object  the  establishment  of 
peace  in  the  congregations.  4.  In  the  Yorktown  District,  no  confer- 
ence. 5.  In  the  Baltimore  District  a  conference  was  held.  They  had 
edifying  discussions  and  investigated  the  trouble  concerning  Mr.  Kraber, 
which  was  referred  to  them.  6.  In  the  Western  District,  no  conference. 
7.  In  the  Virginia  District  a  conference  was  held  on  October  7,  1805. 

The  printed  Protocol  was  read. 

June  2d,  p.m. 

The  session  was  opened  with  prayer. 

The  reading  of  the  Protocol  of  the  Virginia  Special  Conference  was 
concluded.  Resolved,  That  honorable  mention  of  the  commendable 
conduct  of  the  Virginia  Special  Conference  be  entered  upon  the  Pro- 
tocol of  the  Synod. 

The  delegates  of  the  congregations  in  Martinsburg,  Shepherdstown 
and  Smithfield,  in  Virginia,  asked  for  Mr.  Job.  Friedrich  Melsheimer. 
Resolved,  That  the  Synod  is  well  contented  that  Mr.  Joh.  Fr.  Melsheimer 
visit  and  serve  these  congregations. 

Mr.  Jacob  Ruch  handed  in  a  letter  from  the  congregations  in  and 
about  Grecnsburg,  in  Westmoreland  County,  Penna.  A  good  teati- 
monial  for  their  preacher,  Mr.  Joh.  Michael  Steek.  They  ask  to  be  per- 
mitted to  keep  him,  and  that  he  may  remain  a  member  of  the  Reverend 
Ministerium. 


368  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Mr.  Johaim  Kriiber  handed  in  a  letter  from  various  congregations  in 
and  about  Carlisle,  Cumberland  County,  Penna.  Good  testimonial  for 
their  preacher,  Mr.  Friedrich  Sanno. 

Papers  from  Huntingdon,  Penna.,  were  handed  in.  1.  From  the 
Church  Council  in  Huntingdon.  Good  testimonial  for  their  preacher, 
Mr.  Friedrich  Haas.  Petition  that  he  may  remain  with  the  congrega- 
tion. 2.  From  Spruce  Creek,  of  the  same  contents.  3.  From  Mr. 
Johann  Verdriess,  in  Sinking  Valley,  also  of  the  same  contents.  4. 
From  Mifflin  County,  from  Lutheran  and  Reformed  congregations.  A 
good  testimonial  for  Mr.  Haas,  and  a  petition  to  be  served  by  him  in 
the  future. 

A  paper  was  handed  in,  sent  by  the  following  congregations :  Werther 
church,  Upper  Paxton,  Dauphin  County ;  Howarder's  church,  North- 
umberland County ;  Fetterhaft's  church,  Dauphin  County ;  Klinger's 
church,  Dauphin  County.  Good  testimonial  for  their  preacher,  Mr. 
Joh.  P.  F.  Kramer.  Petition  that  he  be  licensed.  Complaint  against 
the  Steinthal  congregation. 

A  letter  from  the  Church  Council  of  the  congregation  at  Manheim, 
in  Lancaster  County.  Petition  for  a  preacher.  Resolved,  If  any  one 
is  inclined  to  go  there,  he  shall  inform  the  President  of  it. 

The  committee  on  the  Friedrichstown  troubles  made  its  report,  as 
follows :  "  That  after  impartial  investigation  of  the  complaint,  they  had 
recommended  reconciliation  to  both  parties."  Thereupon  both  parties 
had  testified  before  the  committee  that  what  had  happened  should  be 
forgotten  and  never  mentioned  again.  Mr.  Zieler  is  willing  to  show  love 
and  friendship  toward  Mr.  Jasinsky  and  Mr.  Jasinsky  promises  the 
same  love  and  friendship  toward  Mr.  Zieler,  as  toward  an  honorable 
and  truth-loving  man. 

A  letter  from  Fincastle,  Botetourt  County,  Virginia.  Petition  to  be 
visited  by  a  traveling  preacher.  Also  a  petition  for  a  preacher.  Re- 
solved, If  any  one  is  inclined  to  go  there  he  shall  inform  the  President. 

A  letter  from  the  congregations  at  the  Frieden's,  Bender's,  Zion's  and 
Arndt's  church,  in  Adams  County,  Penna.  Request  that  Mr.  Sanno 
may  serve  them.  This  petition  was  not  granted.  Resolved,  That  the 
neighboring  preachers  visit  and  serve  these  vacant  congregations  as 
much  as  possible. 

A  letter  from  Morrison's  Cove,  brought  by  Nicolaus  Barley.  Re- 
quest for  a  preacher. 

A  letter  from  Germantown.  Request  that  the  Synodical  Meeting 
assemble  there.  Favorable  testimonial  for  Mr.  Schaefler.  Excuse,  on 
account  of  having  no  collection  for  the  ministerial  treasury. 

A  letter  from  St.  John's  church,  in  Adams  County,  brought  by 


FIFTY-NINTH  CONVENTION,  180G.  309 

Wilhelm  Leitner.  Statement:  That  Mr.  Daniel  Scliroeter  has  served 
the  congregation  siuce  1782,  in  peace  ami  with  blessing,  and  that  he 
still  serves  the  congregation.  Complaint:  That  divisions  had  arisen, 
because  lvev.  Mr.  Grobp,  without  the  knowledge  and  consent  of  Mr. 
Scliroeter,  had  visited  them  and  preached  a  sermon  on  Ascension  Day 
(though  Mr.  Schroeter  had  previously  announced  service  for  that  day), 
and  then  again  announced  services.  The  elders  and  various  members 
of  the  congregation  petition  that  they  may  be  permitted  in  the  future 
to  hold  their  service  in  peace,  unity  and  undisturbed  quiet.  The  Synod 
prepared  and  passed  the  following  resolution :  That  Mr.  Grobp  be  advised 
to  abstain  from  all  interference  with  the  said  congregation. 

A  letter  from  the  Church  Councils  in  Upper  Milford  and  Upper 
Saucon  Townships,  Northampton  County,  show  themselves  satisfied 
with  their  preacher,  Mr.  Fried.  Plitt.  Notice  :  That  the  congregation 
in  Under  Milford  Township  has  united  with  them,  and  also  called  Mr. 
Plitt.     Petition  :  That  such  election  be  approved  by  the  Synod. 

A  letter  from  Mr.  Georg  Fuenienschneider  expresses  a  desire  to 
study.     Asks  for  assistance. 

THE  REPORTS  HANDED  IN  REGARDING  THE  NUMBER  OF  BAPTIZED, 
ETC.,  DURING  THE  PRECEDING  YEAR. 


Communi- 

Baptized. 

Confirmed. 

cants. 

Deceased. 

Schools. 

Philadelphia  .    . 

.  357 

65 

859 

184 

3 

63 

520 

38 

1 

Mr.  Streit  .    .    . 

.    69 

8 

119 

17 

1 

"     Goring    .    . 

.  144 

163 

506 

— 

6 

"     Melsheimer . 

.    85 

77 

483 

17 

2 

— 

214 

58 

1 

Mr.  Schaeffer .    . 

.  129 

43 

405 

29 

2 

"     Zimmermann 

.    82 

22 

258 

16 

1 

"    Lochmann  . 

.  163 

100 

701 

53 

6 

"     Schmucker . 

.    91 

53 

202 

34 

4 

«    Rothrauff  . 

.    84 

107 

353 

7 

2 

88 

659 

33 

5 

"    Endress  .    . 

.  154 

124 

632 

60 

2 

"    Foltz  .    .    . 

.    73 

33 

310 

15 

4 

"     Forstcr    .    . 

..120 

26 

177 

2 

2 

"    Plitt    .    .    . 

.  161 

100 

657 

37 

4 

"     Muhlenberg 

.  170 

58 

230 

18 

1 

"     Stanch     .    . 

.  277 

— 

448 

10 

4 

"     Grobp     .    . 

.  115 

60 

503 

13 

3 

24 


370 


DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 


Communi- 

Baptized. 

Confirmed. 

cants. 

Deceased. 

Schools 

Mr. 

Kriiber    .    . 

.    68 

67 

158 

34 

6 

« 

Spindler  .    . 

.    60 

36 

166 

10 

3 

« 

Flohr  .    .    . 

.  122 

34 

138 

12 

4 

a 

Jasinsky .    . 

.  149 

82 

254 

65 

— 

« 

Herbst    .    . 

.  115 

67 

287 

17 

3 

a 

Moeller  . 

.    96 

20 

95 

25 

2 

it 

Buttler    . 

.    59 

35 

137 

2 

1 

a 

Lange .    . 

.210 

60 

220 

36 

2 

a 

Steck  .    . 

.  246 

63 

500 

27 

3 

U 

Stock  .    . 

.    .    39 

— 

37 

9 

— 

a 

Sanno  .    . 

,    .  193 

83 

233 

23 

3 

a 

Scriba .    . 

.   .    30 

12 

26 

8 

— 

a 

Kuoske  . 

.    .  137 

59 

376 

44 

6 

it 

Riemann 

.    .  104 

53 

206 

14 

2 

<( 

Petersen  . 

.    .  134 

28 

129 

42 

2 

« 

Haas  .    . 

.   .    87 

78 

85 

6 

1 

(( 

Mensch    . 

.    .    86 

29 

152 

13 

4 

tt 

Walter    . 

.    .  291 

160 

662 

58 

5 

tt 

Kramer  . 

.    .  143 

— 

— 

9 

5 

u 

Fried.  Plitt 

.    69 

51 

232 

12 

5 

a 

Rebenack 

.    .    31 

26 

131 

6 

— 

The  reports  of  the  travehng  preachers  were  read,  viz. :  that  of  Mr. 
Forster  to  the  State  of  Ohio,  and  that  of  Mr.  Buttler  to  the  State  of 
Tennessee. 

The  following  motions  were  approved : 

1.  That  an  extract  of  the  reports  of  the  traveling  preachers  shall  be 
printed. 

2.  That  four  thousand  copies  shall  be  printed ;  each  not  more  than 
one  sheet  in  size. 

3.  That  the  officers  of  the  Ministerium  shall  attend  to  this  business. 
Mr.  Paul  Hinckel  was  appointed  traveling  preacher. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Hinckel  shall  be  allowed  forty  dollars  a  month, 
for  the  time  that  he  is  actually  engaged  as  traveling  preacher.  This 
resolution  is  limited,  however,  to  one  year. 

Resolved,  That  the  officers  of  the  Ministerium  are  authorized,  if  they 
see  fit,  to  appoint  one  or  two  more  traveling  preachers  under  the  same 
conditions  (as  with  Mr.  Hinckel). 

Time  and  place  of  the  next  Synodical  Meeting  were  appointed. 
Time :  Trinity  Sunday ;  place :  Lancaster. 

After  hearty  singing  and  prayer,  the  Synod  was  dismissed. 


FIFTY-NINTH  CONVENTION,  1806.  371 

Acts  op  the  Ministerial  Meeting  held  at  Hagerstown, 
June  3d,  1806. 

June  3  a.m. 

In  the  morning  at  six  o'clock  the  legacy  was  distributed.  Thirty-one 
dollars  from  the  treasury  were  distributed  to  the  widows. 

Resolved,  That  Dr.  Muhlenberg  aud  Mr.  Streit  shall  examine  Mr. 
Joh.  Fried.  Melsheimer. 

Resolved,  That  Doctor  Helmuth  and  Jacob  Goering  shall  examine 
Messrs.  Joh.  Michael  Steck  and  David  Kessler. 

The  accounts  with  the  traveling  preachers  were  taken  up. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Johann  Stauch  shall  be  paid  for  his  labors  outside 
the  congregations  he  has  accepted  in  the  State  of  Ohio,  just  as  other 
traveling  preachers. 

An  English  letter  from  Jacob  Stout  was  read.  Doctor  Helmuth 
reports,  that  he  had  been  a  Methodist,  and  was  now  preaching  on  his 
own  authority. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Cramer  shall  be  examined.  After  he  was  exam- 
ined, Resolved,  That  he  be  admonished  concerning  his  cmick  temper, 
and  be  licensed  as  candidate. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Joh.  Fried.  Melsheimer  be  granted  a  full  license 
as  candidate. 

The  request  of  the  congregation  in  Unter  Milford  Township,  Bucks 
County,  to  be  served  by  Mr.  Friedrich  Plitt,  was  granted. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Joh.  Michael  Steck  shall  be  ordained  this  evening. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Nicolaus  Mensch  shall  be  brought  to  trial  on  ac- 
count of  his  conduct. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

June,  3  p.m. 

After  solemn  prayer  for  the  guidance  of  the  Holy  Spirit,  the  case  of 
Mr.  X.  Mensch  was  taken  up.  Resolved,  That  Mr.  Georg  Lochinaun  and 
Mr.  Fried.  David  Schaeffer,  together  with  Mr.  Christian  Endress,  visit 
the  congregation  of  Mr.  Nicolaus  Mensch;  that  he  in  their  presence 
and  according  to  their  directions,  confess  his  error  publicly  in  the 
church,  and  apologize  before  the  assembled  congregation;  if  the  congre- 
gation forgives  him,  the  Ministerium  will  also  forgive  him. 

The  candidates  handed  in  their  writings:  Joh.  Mich.  Steck  handed 
in  the  license  and  one  sermon;  Carl  Stock,  license;  Fried.  Sanno, 
license  and  one  sermon  ;  Willi.  Bcriba,  license  and  journal  ;  Joh.  Knoske, 
sermon  and  journal ;  Can.  Kiemann,  license  and  one  sermon ;  J.  Died. 


372  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Petersen,  license  and  one  sermon ;  Fr.  Haas,  license  and  one  sermon ; 
Joh.  Con.  Walter,  license,  sermon  and  journal ;  Joh.  Paul  Ferd.  Cra- 
mer, license,  sermon  and  journal;  Nic.  Mensch,  license,  sermon  and 
journal ;  Johann  Lange,  license. 

The  licenses  of  the  following  candidates  were  again  renewed : 
Mr.  Carl  Stock,  Fried.  Sanno,  Willi.  Scriba,  Can.  Puemann,  J.  D. 
Petersen,   Fr.  Haas,   J.  Con.  Walter,  Mr.  J.  P.  Ferd.  Cramer,  were 
licensed  as  candidates. 

The  President  closed  the  Ministerial  Meeting  with  prayer,  and  in  the 
evening,  Mr,  Joh.  Mich.  Steck  was  solemnly  consecrated  to  the  ministry 
in  the  church. 

This  is  witnessed  by 

J.  Heine.  Ch.  Helmuth, 

President. 

Jacob  Goering, 

P.  t.  Secretary. 


SIXTIETH   CONVENTION. 

1807. 


Transactions  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Synodical  Meeting,  which 

was  held  on  May  25th,  1807,  and  the  Following  Days, 

in  the  City  of  Lancaster. 

Early  on  Sunday  all  the  preachers  met  in  the  parsonage,  and  went  to 
the  church,  where  Dr.  Helmuth  preached  to  a  large  congregation.  In 
the  afternoon,  Daniel  Kurtz  preached,  and  in  the  evening,  Rev. 
Schmucker,  from  Hegerstadt,  in  the  Lutheran  Church.  On  the  same 
day,  Rev.  Mr.  Endress  preached  in  the  Reformed  Church  in  the  morn- 
ing. 

A.  M. 

Early  on  Monday,  May  25th,  the  preachers,  candidates,  catechists  and 
the  delegates  of  the  congregations  assembled  in  the  school-house,  and 
Dr.  Helinuth,  as  President,  opened  the  Synod  with  an  earnest  prayer. 

Ordained  Preachers  Present  "Were: 

1.  Emanuel  Schulze,  Sen.,  Tulpehocken,  without  a  delegate,  but  with 
excuse. 

2.  J.  Henrich  Helmuth,  )  -m  m    i  i  i  •        -*i       i  i 

n    -„.,.,„,     . ,     r  Philadelphia,  with  a  delegate. 

3.  J.  Fried  rich  Schmidt,  J  l  b 

4.  Dr.  Henrich  Muhlenberg,  Lancaster,  with  a  delegate. 

5.  Christian  Streit,  "Winchester,  without  delegate  and  without  ex- 
cuse. 

6    Jacob  Gocring,  Yorktown,  with  a  delegate. 

7.  F.  Val.  Melzheimer,  Hanover,  without  delegate  and  without  ex- 
cuse. 

8.  Daniel  Kurtz,  Germantown,  without  delegate  and  without  excuse. 

9.  F.    David    SchaefFer,  Baltimore,  without   delegate  and  without 
excM 

10.  Paul  Hinkel,  Now  Market,  without  delegate  and  without  excuse. 

11.  F.  Wilhelm  Geisenheiner,  New  Hanover. 

12.  Georg  Lochmann,  Lebanon. 

13.  Georg  Schmucker,  Hegerstadt. 

373 


374  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

14.  C.  Jiiger,  Hanover  Township,  without  delegate  and  without  ex- 
cuse. 

15.  Christian  Endress,  Easton. 

16.  Joh  Carl  Dill,  Whitehall,  without  delegate  and  without  excuse. 

17.  Johannes  Plitt,  New  Holland. 

18.  Johannes  Grob,  Taneytown. 

19.  Georg  Kriiber,  Middletown,  without  delegate,  but  with  excuse. 

20.  Johannes  Herbst,  York  County. 

21.  F.  Wilhelm  Jasinsky,  Friedrichsstadt. 

22.  Johannes  Roeller,  without  a  delegate. 

23.  Heinrich  Geisenheiner,  Vincent  Township,  without  a  delegate 
and  without  excuse. 

24.  C.  Wilhelm  Ilgen. 

25.  Friedrich  Moeller,  Chambersburg. 

26.  Georg   Buttler,   Fort  Cumberland,  without  delegate  and   with 
excuse. 

27.  Henrich  Aug.  Muhlenberg,  Reading. 

Candidates  Present  Were: 

28.  1.  Mr.  Carl  Stock,  without  delegate  and  with  excuse. 

29.  2.  W.  Henrich  Scriba. 

30.  3.  Joh.  Knoske. 

31.  4.  Joh.  Conrad  Walter. 

32.  5.  J.  Paul  Cramer. 

33.  6.  Friedrich  Haas,  without  delegate  and  with  excuse. 

34.  7.  J.  Nicolaus  Mensch. 

35.  8.  Conrad  Riemann. 

36.  9.  Rev.  Sanno  came  late,  without  delegate  and  without  excuse. 

Delegates  Present  with  Credentials. 

1.  Georg  Krebs,  from  Philadelphia. 

2.  Friedrich  Hekle,  Philadelphia. 

3.  Jacob  Stahl,  Lancaster. 

4.  Michael  Moser,  Lancaster,  but  without  a  vote. 

5.  Martin  Ebert,  York. 

6.  Valentin  Beyer,  New  Hanover. 

7.  Georg  Scheetzer,  Lebanon. 

8.  Henrich  Storzman,  Hegerstadt. 

9.  Friedrich  Konig,  Easton. 

10.  Jacob  Ringwalt,  New  Holland. 

11.  Ludwig  Keselring,  Taneytown. 

12.  Conrad  Schwartz,  York  County,  etc. 


SIXTIETH   CONVENTION,  1807.  375 

13.  Andreas  Hetzler,  "Woodsbury. 

14.  Christian  Spengler,  Ilgen's  congregations. 

15.  Joh.  Schneider,  Chambersburg. 

16.  Fried  rich  Fritz,  Reading. 

17.  Jacob  Iletzel,  Knoske's  congregations. 

18.  Bernhard  Eberhard,  Mr.  Walter's  congregations. 

19.  Peter  Lindemuth,  May  town. 

20.  Christoph  Keller,  Mr.  Mcnsch's  congregation. 

21.  Henrich  Berkheimer,  Riemaun's  congregation. 
Total  ordained  preachers,  28;  candidates,  8;  delegates,  21. 

The  following  preachers  and  candidates  sent  letters  of  excuse  :  1.  Dr. 
Kuntze,  of  New  York  ;  2.  Mr.  Stauch,  from  Ohio,  also  sent  his  journal 
as  traveling  preacher;  3.  David  Kesler  excused  himself;  4.  Mr.  Roth- 
rauff  excused  himself. 

Preachers  absent  were :  1 .  Mr.  Petersen  excused ;  2.  Rev.  Mr.  Leh- 
man, without  excuse;  3.  Mr.  Zimmerman,  Avithout  excuse;  4.  Mr. 
Spindler. 

The  election  of  officers  was  held — Jacob  Goering  was  elected  Presi- 
dent ;  Daniel  Kurtz,  Secretary ;  F.  Schmidt,  Treasurer. 

Hereupon  the  following  papers  were  handed  in,  and  the  Protocol  of 
the  preceding  year  was  read. 

1.  A  letter  from  Dr.  Kuntze,  of  New  York. 

2.  A  letter  from  Rockingham,  Virginia. 

3.  A  letter  from  North  Carolina. 

4.  A  letter  from  Mr.  Steck. 

5.  A  letter  from  the  Johannes  Church. 

6.  A  letter  from  Abbetstown. 

7.  A  letter  from  Loudon  County,  Virginia. 

8.  An  address  from  Philadelphia. 

9.  A  letter  from  Woodsbury. 

10.  Johannes  Keller  announced  that  he  had  a  private  matter  to 
bring  up. 

11.  A  letter  from  Friedrichsstadt. 

12.  A  letter  from  Maytown. 

13.  Letters  from  Wood-Coch  Valley  testify  to  their  satisfaction  with 
Mr.  Haas. 

14.  A  letter  from  the  State  of  Ohio  requests  for  a  visit  by  traveling 
preachers. 

15.  A  letter  from  Rev.  Mr.  Rothrauff. 

16.  Letters  from  Mr.  Retz. 

17.  Documents  referring  to  the  Lykensthal  affairs. 


376  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

18.  Letter  of  excuse  from  Mr.  Flohr. 

19.  Letters  from  Mr.  Grob's  congregations. 

20.  Journal  of  the  traveling  preacher,  Mr.  Stauch,  and  excuse. 

21.  Letters  from  Ohio  State.     Ask  to  be  visited. 

22.  Letters  from  Mr.  Peterson,  of  Harrisburg.     Excuses  himself. 

23.  Letters  referring  to  Mr.  Ilgen,  in  which  the  people  testify  to 
their  satisfaction  with  him. 

The  reports  of  the  District  Meetings  were  presented  : — 

1.  Of  the  Philadelphia  District,  no  report  was  sent. 

2.  From  the  committee  of  Springfield,  a  written  report  was  handed  in 
by  Rev.  Mr.  Endress  regarding  Mr.  Mensch,  that  everything  had  been 
arranged  to  the  satisfaction  of  both  parties.  Mr.  Mensch  confessed  and 
apologized  for  his  act  publicly  before  the  congregation,  asked  to  be  for- 
given and  promised  genuine  improvement  before  God.  The  congrega- 
tion forgave  him  and  recognizes  him  as  its  preacher.  The  Ministerium 
expresses  its  satisfaction. 

3.  The  Lancaster  District  made  no  report. 

4.  The  York  District  made  no  report. 

5.  The  Baltimore  District  reported  that  they  had  met  at  Greencastle 
and  had  sj>ent  the  time  in  edifying  theological  discussions. 

6.  The  Western  District  made  no  report. 

7.  The  Virginia  District  sent  its  printed  transactions.  They  were 
read,  and  it  was  unanimously  resolved  that  these  transactions  be  hon- 
orably mentioned  in  the  Protocol,  and  the  brethren  be  requested  to  con- 
tinue their  praiseworthy  efforts. 

Resolved,  That  Dr.  Helmuth  prepare  an  essay  in  reference  to  a  re- 
port (which  was  appended  to  these  transactions)  of  the  origin  and 
development  of  the  German  congregations  in  North  Carolina,  which 
essay  is  to  be  sent  to  the  pastors  in  that  place  for  their  encouragement, 
and  is  to  be  signed  by  the  President  and  the  Secretary.  Approved  and 
carried  out. 

8.  The  Eastern  District  hands  in  a  report,  that  a  young  man  named 
P.  Heinrich  Mattes  applied  to  be  admitted  to  the  ministry. 

The  list  of  the  baptized,  confirmed,  etc.,  by  the  various  preachers, 
was  handed  in  : 

Dr.  Helmuth,  Philadelphia 
Mr.  Schmidt,  " 

Dr.  H.  Muhlenberg,  Lancaster 
Mr.  Streit,  Winchester  .... 


Goering,York 212 


Bap- 

Con- 

Communi- 

De- 

tized. 

firmed. 

cants. 

ceased.  Sch'ls. 

405 

73 

927 

178        4 

175 

63 

420 

27         1 

68 

— 

81 

17        1 

212 

69 

411 

—      — 

SIXTIETH  CONVENTION,  1807.  377 

Bap-  Con-    Communi-     Dc- 

tizud.  firmed,  cants,     ceased.  Sch'ls. 

Mr.  Melsheirner,  Hanover —  —  —  —  — 

"    Kurtz,  Baltimore 130  38  295  57  1 

"    Sclnifer,  Germantown 110  38  247  39  2 

"    Hinkel —  —  —  —  — 

"    Geisenheiner,  Sen.,  New  Hanover.    188  172  962  26  6 

"    Lochman,  Lebanon 176  108  70-4  55  7 

"    Schmucker,  Hegerstadt     ....    180  30  305  27  4 

"    Jager,  Hanover  Township     ...    121  87  623  17  8 

"    Endress,  Easton 137  —  314  31  6 

"    Dill,  Whitehall 107  65  236  26  3 

"    Plitt,  New  Holland 175  91  602  31  4 

"    Grob,  Taney  town 78  40  250  10  4 

"    Kriiber,  Middletown 67  24  125  29  3 

"    Herbst,  York  County 191  19  185  18  3 

"    Stock,  York  County 47  —  37  5  — 

"    Steck,  York  County 206  76  253  31  — 

"    Geisenheiner,  Whitehall   ....    151  126  1106  24  9 

"    Roeller,  Whitehall 109  42  319  17  2 

"    Jasinsky,  Friedrichstadt    ....     164  —  —  75  — 

"    Ilgen,  Friedrichstadt 194  —  139  20  4 

"    Holler,  Chambersburg 81  36  123  29  2 

"    Butler      41  —  111  8  1 

"    Scriba 24  33  40  6  — 

"    Muhlenberg,  Reading 99  56  252  19  1 

"    Knoske 145  —  400  31  5 

"    Walter 372  103  319  68  3 

"    Cramer 102  115  273  11  3 

"    Haas 90  —  60  7  0 

"    Mensch 97  39  161  15  4 

"    Riemann 93  —  283  11  2 

"    Sanno,  Carlisle —  —  —  —  — 

«    Petersen,  Harrisburg 156  —  81  35  2 

P.M. 

On  Monday  afternoon  the  session  was  opened  at  the  usual  place  with 
prayer. 

Ad.  1.  A  letter  from  Dr.  Kuntze  was  read,  in  which  he  regrets  that 

he  is  deprived  of  the  pleasure  of  attending  the  Synod,  in  which  he  hopes 

that  the  brethren  will  hold  fast  to  the  pure  doctrine  of  Jesus,  since 
apostasy  is  so  generally  prevailing  in  Europe,  in  which  he  refers  to 
the  Philadelphia  congregation,  etc. 


378  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Ad.  2.  A  letter  from  Rockingham  County,  Virginia,  was  read,  in 
which  request  was  made  for  a  preacher :  Resolved,  If  any  preacher  is 
inclined  to  serve  that  district  as  its  pastor,  he  shall  inform  the  President 
as  soon  as  possible. 

3.  A  letter  from  North  Carolina  was  read,  which  describes  the  sad 
condition  of  many  congregations  which  are  without  preachers — asks  for 
a  preacher  and  promises  him  an  ample  salary  :  Resolved,  That  any 
preacher  who  feels  inclined,  have  permission  to  accept  these  congrega- 
tions, and  that  he  shall  inform  the  President. 

4.  Mr.  Steck's  letter  of  excuse  was  read.  He  hopes  to  be  excused 
from  this  year's  Synod,  because  of  the  distance,  and  asks  for  a  certifi- 
cate of  ordination. 

5  and  19.  Letters  from  Mr.  Grob's  congregations,  containing  in  part 
complaints  against  him,  in  part  writings  in  his  defence,  were  read, 
whereupon  it  was  resolved,  that  Rev.  Messrs.  Streit,  Lochman  and  Dele- 
gate Mr.  Stahl  be  a  committee  to  investigate  the  matter  and  report  to 
the  Synod. 

6.  The  letter  from  Abbotstown  was  read,  in  which  request  is  made 
for  Mr.  Rehman  as  their  preacher  :  Resolved,  That  Mr.  Rehman  may 
visit  the  said  congregation,  and  accept  it,  if  he  wishes. 

Ad.  7,  9  and  11.  A  letter  from  Loudon  County,  Virginia,  as  also  one 
from  Woodsbury,  Maryland,  was  read,  in  which  request  is  made  that 
Rev.  Mr.  Jasinsky,  with  whom  they  are  well  satisfied,  may  remain  with 
them.  Also  a  letter  from  Friedrichstadt  was  read,  in  which  complaint 
is  made  of  a  misbehavior  of  said  preacher,  and  the  Synod  is  requested 
to  investigate  the  matter. 

Resolved,  That  Revs.  Messrs.  Schaeffer  and  Plitt  and  Delegates  Messrs. 
Ebert,  Fritz  and  Konig  be  a  committee  to  investigate  this  dispute  and 
report  to  the  Synod. 

Ad.  8.  An  address  from  those  in  Philadelphia  who  favor  the  Eng- 
lish was  read,  in  which  the  Synod  is  petitioned  to  mediate  in  their  con- 
gregational disputes. 

The  remainder  of  this  day  was  spent  on  this  address,  but  no  decision 
was  reached.  The  evening  was  come,  and  after  prayer  the  Synod  ad- 
journed. 

In  the  evening  the  elder  Mr.  Geisenheiner  preached  in  the  Lutheran 
Church. 

Tuesday,  May  26th,  a.m. 

This  morning  the  preachers,  candidates,  catechists  and  delegates  again 
met  in  the  schoolhouse  and  the  business  was  opened  with  prayer. 

The  committee  concerning  Mr.  Grobp's  affairs  in  Johannes  church 
reported  as  follows : 


SIXTIETH  CONVENTION,  1807.  379 

5  and  19.  "That  it  lias  investigated  the  complaints  made  by  a  num- 
ber of  tho  members  of  said  congregation,  and  heard  the  defence  of  Mr. 
Grobp.  The  committee  is  of  the  opinion  that  the  complaints  are  not 
sufficiently  proved,  but  that  nevertheless  there  has  been  error  on  both 
sides.  It  knows  of  no  better  advice  to  give  than :  That  Rev.  Mr. 
Grobp,  at  the  end  of  his  year,  for  the  sake  of  peace,  resign  said  congre- 
gation, in  order  that  it  may  be  free  to  chose  any  preacher  of  the  Minis- 
terium  as  its  pastor,  whereby  it  is  to  be  well  understood,  however,  that 
Rev.  Mr.  Grobp  may  be  one  of  the  candidates." 

This  report  was  approved  by  the  Synod,  and  resolved,  that  the 
decision  of  the  committee  be  sent  to  the  congregation,  which  was  done. 

The  committee  with  reference  to  the  difficulties  at  Friedrichstadt, 
with  which  Loudon  County,  Virginia,  and  Woodsbury  are  united, 
reports  as  follows : 

"  1.  That  for  the  past  year  there  has  been  a  latent  ill-feeling  between 
some  members  and  the  preacher.  2.  All  parties,  the  preacher  and  those 
adhering  to  him,  as  also  the  members  opposed  to  him,  and  the  country 
congregations  united  with  them,  in  which  Mr.  Jasinsky  is  in  favor, 
understand  that  union  and  the  best  interests  of  the  congregations  can  be 
attained  in  no  better  way,  than  through  a  peace-loving  and  capable  pious 
pastor.  Mr.  Jasinsky  and  his  friends  in  Friedrichstadt,  and  the  smaller 
congregations  agreed  to  this,  with  the  condition  that  Mr.  Jasinsky  be 
dismissed  honorably  [auf  schiedliche  Art]  and  in  love.  3.  Mr.  Jasinsky 
regards  the  following  as  the  proper  method  of  his  dismissal :  As  soon 
as  his  year  is  up,  he  will  deliver  his  farewell  address,  remain  in  the 
parsonage  until  August  1st  without  being  preacher  of  the  place,  receive 
his  promised  salary,  and  a  testimonial  of  blameless  life  and  doctrine 
from  the  Church  Council." 

Signed  by  Mr.  Jasinsky,  Friedrich  Heisle  and  the  committee. 

Resolved,  that  the  Synod  approve  this — which  was  done — but  with 
the  proviso,  that  in  case  of  need,  Mr.  Jasinsky  be  permitted  to  serve  the 
congregation,  and  remain  in  the  parsonage  without  paying  rent. 

Dr.  Helmuth's  essay  with  reference  to  the  congregations  in  North 
Carolina  was  read  and  approved,  whereupon  it  was  resolved  to  send  the 
same  to  the  German  Lutheran  Ministerium  of  that  district,  and  to  have 
it  signed  by  the  President  and  Secretary. 

Ad.  9.  The  matter  of  the  Philadelphia  address  was  again  brought  up, 
and  after  both  parties  were  heard  with  patience  and  charity,  the  Synod 
perceived  that  in  the  present  state  of  affairs  no  mediation  was  possible. 

It  was  therefore  moved  and  resolved,  "  That,  as  the  delegates  from 
Philadelphia  had  addressed  the  Synod  courteously,  a  courteous  answer 
be  made  them,  and  that  the  Synod  knows  no  better  advice  than  that 


380  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

already  given  in  Germantown  ;  and  that,  since  this  advice  was  not  fol- 
lowed, the  Synod  can  have  nothing  further  to  do  with  the  matter ;  but 
addresses  its  most  fraternal  requests  and  admonitions  to  both  parties  to 
make  peace  among  themselves."  This  answer  was  presented  to  the  dele- 
gates, and  a  coj)y  of  this  resolution  was  given  to  both  parties. 

Pastor  Schmidt,  as  Treasurer,  rendered  an  account  of  the  receipts  and 
expenditures  of  the  money  in  the  treasury  of  the  Synod,  and,  as  this 
account  was  found  correct,  it  was  signed  by  the  President  and  the 
Secretary. 

Resolved,  That  a  brief  abstract  of  the  reports  of  the  doings  of  the 
traveling  preachers  be  printed  and  distributed  in  the  country  by  the 
preachers. 

Farther  Resolved,  That  Dr.  Helmuth,  assisted  by  the  traveling  preach- 
ers, shall  attend  to  the  preparation  and  printing  of  this  brief  report. 

It  was  noticed  with  regret,  that  the  arrangements  [Institute]  concern- 
ing the  traveling  preachers,  etc.,  are  not  supported  and  advanced  with 
the  zeal  which  the  importance  of  the  matter  seems  to  demand.  Here- 
upon it  was  resolved  that  the  President  urgently  exhort  all  the  preachers 
and  the  delegates  present,  that  in  the  future  they  earnestly  recommend 
and  praise  the  Institute  in  their  congregations,  in  order  that  it  may  not 
prove  an  entire  failure. 

Further  Resolved,  That  this  admonition  shall  be  appended  to  the  report 
of  the  traveling  preachers,  in  order  that  in  future  this  institution  may 
be  carried  on  more  zealously,  and  that  larger  and  more  liberal  contribu- 
tions may  be  gathered  in  the  congregations. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

Tuesday,  26th,  p.m. 

Ad.  10.  In  reference  to  the  private  matter,  which  Joh.  Keller,  of 
Strasburg,  had  reported  concerning  Mr.  Herbst,  Messrs.  Rev.  Dr. 
Schaeffer,  Joh.  Stahl  and  Lud.  Kesselring,  delegate,  were  named  a 
committee  to  hear  the  complaint  and  report  to  the  Synod. 

Ad.  20.  A  part  of  the  journal  handed  in  by  Preacher  Stauch  was 
read,  from  which  it  appears  that  he  traveled  1300  miles,  preached  67 
times,  baptized  212  children,  and  received  on  this  journey  $42.98.  He 
traveled  about  122  days,  and  in  consideration  of  this  the  Synodical 
Treasury  owes  to  Mr.  Stauch  the  sum  of  $162.67. 

Mr.  Hinkel  read  a  part  of  his  journal,  from  which  it  appears  that  he 
traveled  128  days  in  the  service  of  the  Synod,  and  baptized  158  chil- 
dren, and  received  $106.05  on  this  journey. 

Rev.  Mr.  Enders  and  the  delegates,  Messrs.  Scheezer  and  Beyer, 


SIXTIETH  CONVENTION,  1807.  381 

were  appointed  a  committee  to  audit  these  accounts  of  the  traveling 
preachers. 

Concerning  Mr.  Stauch's  accounts,  the  committee  remarked  that  an 
error  had  crept  in  through  an  oversight.  The  account  stands  as  follows: 
Mr.  Stauch  hands  in  the  sum  of  842.98,  and  says  in  his  report  that  in 
addition  to  this  he  collected  in  his  congregations,  for  the  Traveling 
Institute,  $22.50,  making  $05.48.  Mr. Stauch's  credit  with  the  Synod, 
$102.07.     Due  him,  $97.19. 

In  relation  to  Mr.  Hinkel's  accounts,  the  committee  reports : 

Since  the  Synodical  Treasury  has  been  considerably  drained  by  the 
heavy  expenditures  of  last  year,  the  Synod  resolves,  that  this  year  only 
one  traveling  preacher  be  appointed,  and  that  Mr.  Stauch  be  this  travel- 
ing preacher,  who  is  appointed  for  three  months,  and  that  forty  dollars 
be  paid  him  in  advance. 

The  district  to  be  visited  by  the  traveling  preacher  this  year  com- 
prises New  Virginia,  viz. :   Rockbridge,  Botetourt  and  Montgomery. 

Moved  and  resolved,  that  the  appointment  of  the  traveling  preacher 
be  this  time  referred  to  the  Ministerial  Meeting  for  special  reasons.  It 
is,  however,  expressly  stipulated  that  the  rights  of  the  congregational 
delegates  in  future  to  vote  for  traveling  preachers  are  not  abrogated  — 
It  therefore  remains  an  inalienable  right,  that  delegates  shall  be  entitled 
to  vote  with  the  preachers  in  the  election  of  traveling  preachers  — 
That  this  privilege  may  be  retained,  this  resolution  is  entered  on  the 
minutes. 

The  Synod  is  informed  that  several  young  men  are  desirous  of  devot- 
ing themselves  to  the  ministry ;  namely,  Messrs.  Heine,  Simon  and  Hen- 
rich  Riemenschneider.  Resolved,  That  the  sum  of  one  hundred  dollars 
from  the  Synodical  Treasury  be  granted  each  of  these  students,  to 
enable  them  to  continue  their  studies,  which  sum  however,  is  to  be  paid 
to  their  teachers. 

The  committee  in  reference  to  Joh.  Roller's  matters,  concerning  Rev. 
Herbst,  handed  in  the  following  report :  The  committee  has  read  and 
considered  the  letter  presented,  and  the  points  contained  in  it ;  the 
accused  has  defended  himself  in  such  wise,  that  the  committee  believes 
the  accused  will  by  the  grace  of  God  be  careful  to  live  ever  more 
guardedly,  and  blamelessly  as  a  Christian  and  a  pastor,  so  that  all  his 
efforts  in  word  and  life  may  more  and  more  attain  to  the  extension  of 
true  Christianity. — Approved  by  the  Synod. 

Resolved,  To  pay  to  each  of  the  widows  of  the  preachers,  namely, 
"Widows  Kurtz,  Weinland,  Krug,  Ernst,  Schaum,  Ludke  and  Jung  the 
sum  of  five  dollars  from  the  Synodical  Treasury.  The  President  receives 
the  money,  aud  promises  to  have  it  duly  paid  to  the  said  widows. 


382  DOCUMENTAKY  HISTOKY. 

Hereupon  the  time  and  place  of  the  next  Synod  were  appointed. 

Time,  Trinity  Sunday ;  place,  Lebanon. 

The  Synodical  Meeting  was  closed  with  song  and  prayer. 

Acts  of  the  Ministerial  Meeting,  held  in  the  City  of  Lan- 
caster, May  27th. 

a.  M. 

Wednesday,  May  27th,  in  the  morning,  all  the  preachers  assembled 
in  the  church,  and,  after  prayer,  the  Ministerial  business  was  opened. 

After  due  deliberation,  the  Ministerium  resolves,  that  each  applicant 
for  the  office  of  teacher,  shall,  before  being  received,  hand  a  brief  auto- 
biography to  the  Ministerium. 

Li-  Ser-      Jour- 

cense,        mon.      nal. 

1.  Candidate  Stock  handed  in 1  2  3 

2.  "  Scriba  handed  in —  1  — 

3.  "  Knoske  handed  in —  —  — 

4.  "  Walter  handed  in —  1  — 

5.  "  Kramer  handed  in 1  1  1 

6.  "  Haas  handed  in 1  1  — 

7.  "  Mensch  handed  in  .    « —  —  1 

8.  "  Rieman  handed  in 1  1  1 

9.  "  Sanno  handed  in —  —  — 

The  last  named  was  excused  because  before  leaving  home,  he  did  not 
know  whether  he  could  attend  the  Synod. 

Philip  Henrich  Mattes,  who  was  examined  and  recommended  by  the 
Easton  District,  applied  for  admission.     Likewise,  Philip  Jacob  Stout. 

The  Synod  resolves,  that  young  Mr.  Schaeffer  and  Mr.  Heine  be 
examined  by  a  committee  of  the  Ministerium,  and  if  found  qualified,  be 
granted  licenses.  Dr.  Helmuth  and  Pastor  Schmidt  were  named  to 
examine  Mr.  Schaeffer,  and  the  officers  are  to  examine  Mr.  Heine  at 
their  convenience. 

Rev.  Mr.  Schmidt  and  Geisenheiner  were  appointed  to  examine  Mr. 
Mattes,  and  Schaeffer  and  Melzheimer  to  examine  Mr.  Stout. 

Henrich  Carl  Iden  applied  for  admission,  but  the  Ministerium  does 
not  wish  to  have  any  dealings  with  him,  because  his  character  is  not 
sufficiently  known. 

The  preacher,  Mr.  Meyer,  from  Canada,  as  a  former  member  of  the 
New  York  Ministerium,  applies  to  be  admitted  into  the  Pennsylvania 
Ministerium. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Aug.  F.  Meyer,  as  others  in  previous  years  be 


SIXTIETH  CONVENTION,  1807.  383 

regarded  as  a  friend,  without  being  an  actual  member,  and  that  congre- 
gations united  with  us  have  full  permission  to  accept  him  as  pastor, 
without  acting  against  our  Constitution.  We  have  looked  over  his 
papers,  and  have  no  doubt  as  to  the  correctness  of  his  ordination,  etc. 
A  copy  of  this  was  given  him. 

Ad.  No.  16.  A  letter  from  Mr.  Ritz,  of  Waldburg,  [Waldboro',  Me.], 
New  England,  was  read,  in  which  he  petitions  that  he  be  permitted  to 
perform  all  actus  muiisteriales. 

Resolved,  To  grant  this  petition  and  have  a  certificate  to  this  effect 
prepared  and  signed  by  the  officers. 

The  morning  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

P.  M. 

On  Wednesday  afternoon  the  members  of  the  Ministerium  again 
assembled  in  the  church,  and  after  prayer,  continued  their  business. 

Pastor  Schmidt  and  Geisenheiner,  as  the  committee  which  examined 
the  applicant  Mattes,  testified  to  their  satisfaction  with  his  knowledge 
of  languages  and  theology,  and  gave  it  as  their  judgment,  that  he  re- 
ceive a  license  as  a  catechist.     Approved  and  granted. 

Pastor  Melzheimer  and  Schaefler  as  the  committee  which  examined 
the  applicant  Stout,  testify  that  he  gives  evidence  of  Christian  exper- 
ience, but  is  rather  deficient  in  theology.  They  propose  that  he  be 
granted  a  license  as  candidate,  to  be  traveling  preacher  in  the  Virginia 
district ;  namely,  Rockbridge,  Botetourt,  Montgomery.     Granted. 

Pastors  Endress  and  Lochmann,  as  the  committee  which  examined  the 
sermon  and  the  diary  of  the  candidate,  Mr.  Knoske,  testify  to  entire 
satisfaction  with  them.  (They  therefore  propose  to  the  members  of  the 
Ministerium,  that  in  case  he  be  regularly  married,  his  license  be  re- 
newed.    Approved.) 

These  same  gentlemen,  who  examined  the  sermon  of  the  Candidate 
Riemau,  testify  that  his  sermon  is  good  and  edifying.  His  license  is 
renewed. 

The  sermon  of  Candidate  Scriba  was  also  examined  by  these  gentle- 
men and  found  to  be  thorough.     Resolved,  That  his  license  be  renewed. 

Rev.  Messrs.  Schmucker  and  Jasinsky  are  appointed  to  investigate 
the  conduct  of  Messrs.  Cramer  and  Scriba  in  reference  to  a  scandalous 
transaction  in  Manheim,  and  report  to  the  Ministerium. 

The  candidate,  Mr.  Mensch,  handed  in  only  his  diary ;  his  license 
shall  be  renewed. 

Rev.  Mr.  Schmucker  commended  Candidate  Haas,  that  the  sermon 
which  was  given  him  for  examination  was  thorough.  His  license  is 
renewed. 


384  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

The  candidate, Sanno,  again  satisfactorily  excused  himself  for 

not  having  a  sermon,  his  diary,  etc.,  and  promises  to  send  them  to  the 
President.     His  license  shall  be  renewed. 

Ad.  12.  Resolved,  That  Candidate  Cramer  serve  the  following  con- 
gregations until  May  27,  1808,  namely,  Hummelstown,  Maytown, 
Elizabethtown  and  Columbia. 

Ad.  17.  That  Candidate  Walter  serve  St.  John's  Church  and 
Wirth's  Church  until  May  27,  1808. 

The  President  gave  all  the  candidates  their  renewed  licenses,  with  the 
best  wishes. 

Hereupon  the  Ministerial  Meeting  was  closed  with  a  hymn  and 
devout  [prayer]  by 

This  is  witnessed. 


SIXTY-FIRST  CONVENTION. 

1808. 

(Lebanon). 


Transactions  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Synodical  Meeting  Held 
on  June  12th,  1808,  and  the  Following  Days,  in  the  City  of  Leb- 
anon, Dauphin  County. 

On  Sunday  morning,  June  12th,  all  the  preachers  and  the  delegates  of 
the  respective  congregations  assembled  in  the  parsonage  and  went  to 
the  church,  where  Dr.  Helrnuth  preached  to  a  numerous  assembly  on 
John  10  :  1  sq.  Oo  this  same  morning  Rev.  Schiifer  preached  in  the 
Reformed  Church,  in  the  afternoon  Rev.  Kurtz  preached  on  John  14 : 
23,  and  in  the  evening  Rev.  Jager  on  Gal.  6 :  15  sq. 

Monday,  June  13th,  a.m.,  the  preachers  and  delegates  gathered  in 
the  church,  as  they  had  been  invited  to  do,  and  after  the  Synod  was 
opened  with  prayer  by  Rev.  Kurtz,  the  President  having  departed  in 
death,  the  business  was  opened  in  the  name  of  the  Lord. 

The  Ordained  Preachers  Present  Were: 

1.  Pastor  Emanuel  Schulze,  Senior,  from  Tulpehocken. 

2.  Dr.  Hen  rich  Helrnuth,  from  Philadelphia. 

3.  Pastor  Friedrich  Schmidt,  from  Philadelphia. 

4.  Dr.  Henrich  Muhlenberg,  from  Lancaster. 

5.  Pastor  Val.  Melsheimer,  from  Hanover. 

6.  "  Daniel  Kurtz,  from  Baltimore. 

7.  "  David  Schiifer,  from  Germantown. 

8.  "  Daniel  Lehman,  from  Misillum. 

9.  "  Lochman,  from  Lebanon. 

10.  "  Schmucker,  from  Hegerstadt. 

11.  "  Jager,  of  Northampton  County. 

12.  "  Rothrauf,  from  Greencastle. 

13.  "  Dill,  from  Plainfield. 

14.  "  Endress,  from  East  Town. 

15.  "  Plitt,  Sr.,  from  New  Holland 

16.  "  Herbst,  from  Fisel's  Church. 

25  385 


17. 

Pasto] 

18. 

u 

19. 

it 

20. 

tt 

21. 

11 

22. 

il 

1. 

2. 

3. 

4. 

5. 

6. 

7. 

386  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Pastor  Jasinsky,  from  Pile  eland. 

Geisenheiner,  from  Whitehall. 
Roller,  from  Goschenhoppen. 
Ilgen,from  Aaronsburg. 
Moller,  from  Chambersburg. 
Butler,  from  Port  Cumberland. 

Candidates  Present  Were  : 

Mr.  Stok,  from  Katawissen. 

"  Sanno,  from  Carlisle. 

"  Knoske,  from  Manheim,  Berks  County. 

"  Scriba,  from  Moheim,  Lancaster  County. 

"  Walter,  from  Middleburg. 

"  Petersen,  from  Harrisburg. 

"  Cramer,  from  May  Town. 

8.     "  Mensch,  from  S])ringfield. 

Catechists  Present  Were  : 

1.  Mr.  Schafer,  Jr.,  from  Whitpen. 

2.  Mr.  Heine,  from  Bauer's  Church,  and,  finally,  the  traveling 
preacher,  Mr.  Staut. 

Ordained  preachers  absent  were  :  1.  Pastor  Streit,  from  Winchester, 
Virginia,  without  an  excuse.  2.  Pastor  Hinkel,  from  New  Market, 
without  au  excuse,  3.  Pastor  Zimmerman,  from  Culpepper,  with  ex- 
cuse. 4.  Pastor  Geisenheiner,  Sr.,  who  moved  to  New  York.  5.  Pastor 
Foltz,  from  Rockingham  County,  without  an  excuse.  6.  Pastor  Forster, 
from  State  of  Ohio,  without  an  excuse.  7.  Pastor  Grobp,  from  Taney- 
town,  without  an  excuse.  8.  Pastor  Greber,  from  Middletown,  with 
excuse.  9.  Pastor  Spindler,  from  John's  Church,  Virginia,  without  an 
excuse.  10.  Pastor  Flor,  from  Eversham,  Virginia,  without  an  excuse  11. 
Pastor  Steck,  from  Greensburg,  without  an  excuse.  12.  Pastor  Stauch, 
from  Lisburn,  Ohio,  with  excuse.  13.  Pastor  Muhlenberg,  Jr.,  from 
Reading,  excused. 

Candidates  absent  were:  1.  Mr.  Lange,  from  Berlin,  with  excuse. 
2.  Mr.  Haas,  from  Huntingdon,  with  excuse.  3.  Mr.  Riemann,  from 
Abbotstadt,  with  excuse.  4.  Mr.  Kessler,  from  Cumberland,  with  ex- 
cuse. 


SIXTY-FIRST  CONVENTION,  1808.  387 

Delegates  Present  witii    Written   Credentials  of   Legiti- 
mation. 

1.  Mr.  Christian  Bey,  from  Tulpehocken. 

2.  "  Peter  Lex,  from  Philadelphia. 

3.  "  Georg  Rahn,  from  Philadelphia. 

4.  "  Peter  Schendele,  from  Lancaster. 

5.  "  Anton  Hinkel,  from  Hanover. 

6.  "  Johannes  Meyer,  from  Misillum. 

7.  "  Philip  Horn,  from  Baltimore. 

8.  "  Johannes  Stober,  from  Lebanon. 

9.  "  Johannes  Bardt,  from  Hegerstadt. 

10.  "  Henrich  Jung,  from  Hanover,  Northampton  County. 

11.  "  Peter  Schall,  from  Plainfield. 

12.  "  Johannes  Barnet,  from  East  Town. 

13.  "  Johannes  Winters,  from  New  Holland. 
1-4.  "  Johannes  Bartner,  from  Fissel's  Church. 

15.  "  Georg  Munich,  from  Aaronsburg. 

16.  "  Joseph  Egolf,  from  Carlisle. 

17.  "  Jacob  Emmerich,  from  Manheim,  Berks  County. 

18.  "  Georg  Merkle,  from  Middleburgh. 

19.  "  Georg  Jans,  from  Harrisburg. 

20.  "  Jacob  Schiifer,  from  Maytown. 

21.  "  Valentin  Opp,  from  Springfield. 
Total  preachers  present,  22  ;  absent,  13. 

Candidates  and  catechists  present,  10  ;  absent,  4,  and  delegates  pres- 
ent, 21. 

Hereupon  the  annual  election  of  officers  was  held,  and  it  was  found 
that  Dr.  Henrich  Muhlenberg,  of  Lancaster,  had  a  majority  of  votes 
for  President.  Pastor  Dr.  Kurtz,  of  Baltimore,  for  Secretary.  Pastor 
Friedrich  Schmidt,  of  Philadelphia,  for  Treasurer,  and  these  were  duly 
recognized  by  the  Synod  as  its  duly  elected  officers. 

The  Treasurer,  Pastor  Schmidt,  then  reported  that  the  receipts  dur- 
ing the  past  year  for  the  fund  for  the  support  of  traveling  preachers, 
the  education  of  young  preachers  and  the  aid  of  preachers'  widows 
amounted  to  $784.17*,  and  the  expenditures  to  6644.37,  leaving  a  bal- 
ance in  the  treasury  of  $139.80$. 

The  accounts  of  the  Treasurer  were  audited  by  Rev.  Mr.  Plitt  and 
Peter  Bey,  and  as  they  found  them  correct,  the  accounts  were  signed  by 
the  officers. 


388  DOCUMENTAKY  HISTOEY. 

The  following  contributions  were  gathered  in  the  various  congrega- 
tions for  the  treasury  and  handed  to  the  Treasurer  : — 

Namely:    1.  From  Philadelphia $152.95 

2.  "      Lancaster 20.00 

3.  "      Germantown 4.22 

4.  A  present  from  Mr.  Joh.  Meyer,  of 

Hamburg 5.00 

5.  From  the  congregation  at  Lebanon  *)  9  .  nn 
and  the  congregations  united  with  it  j 

6.  From  Hegerstadt 47.11 

7.  "      Greencastle 18.75 

8.  "      Plainfield 7.12 

9.  "      East  Town 5.00 

10.  "      Aaronsburg 28.70 

11.  "      Fort  Cumberland 8.91 

12.  A  present  from  Joseph  Egolf,  from  ")  „„„ 
Rev.  Sanno's  congregation  in  Carlisle  j 

13.  From  Manheim,  Berks  County  .    .    .  6.00 

14.  "      Manheim,  Lancaster  County  .  11.70 

15.  A   present    from    Rev.    Walter,   of 

Middleburg 5.00 

16.  From  Harrisburg 22.52 

17.  "      Maytown 34.30* 

18.  Mr.  Kessler  sent  from  Christ's  Church         10.21 

Total $417.49* 

It  was  moved  and  seconded  that  certain  amounts  be  granted  the  fol- 
lowing young  men  this  year  out  of  the  Synodical  Treasury,  to  enable 
them  to  continue  their  theological  studies,  which  was  approved  : 

Namely  :  1.  Mr.  Simon,  the  sum  of  $30.00.  2.  Mr.  Hecht,  the  sum 
of  $100.00. 

It  was  suggested  and  laid  before  the  Synod  for  consideration : 
"  Whether  it  might  not  be  useful  and  advantageous  that  a  young  man 
be  specially  educated  and  set  apart  for  the  work  of  a  traveling  preacher  ; 
or  whether  another  preacher  be  sent  out  for  this  work,  as  is  customary  ?'' 
But  since  this  suggestion  deserved  mature  deliberation,  it  was  moved 
and  seconded  that  this  matter  be  postponed  until  the  afternoon.  Ap- 
proved. 

Upon  approval  of  the  Synod  the  following  suras  from  the  treasury 
were  granted  for  the  support  of  the  preachers'  widows,  whose  names 
follow,  viz. :  To  the  Widow  Kurtz,  $15.00  ;  to  the  Widow  Jung,  $15.00  ; 


SIXTY-FIRST  CONVENTION,  1808.  389 

to  the  Widow  Krug,  $15.00 ;  to  the  Widow  Liitke,  $15.00 ;  to  the 
Widow  Weinland,  $15.00. 

Hereupon  the  morning  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

P.M. 

On  Monday  afternoon  the  transactions  again  began,  after  prayer  had 
been  offered. 

It  was  moved  and  seconded,  that  Mr.  Paul  Hinkel  be  the  traveling 
preacher  for  one  year,  or  until  the  next  Synod,  which  was  approved. — 
The  district  which  he  has  to  travel  over  extends  only  to  Virginia,  North 
Carolina  and  Tennessee. 

Further,  it  was  moved  and  seconded,  that  Mr.  Simon,  after  due 
examination,  if  he  be  found  qualified,  be  the  second  traveling  preacher, 
whose  district  shall  be  restricted  to  the  small  towns  and  northern  parts 
of  Pennsylvania  and  the  State  of  Ohio. 

It  was,  however,  distinctly  understood  that  neither  of  the  traveling 
preachers  shall  encroach  upon  any  congregations  where  preachers  are 
already  stationed.     Approved. 

It  was  thought  proper,  and  therefore  moved  and  resolved,  that  the 
traveling  preachers  consider  whatever  money  they  might  receive  for 
their  labors  from  the  congregations  as  their  property,  but  that  they  hand 
in  to  the  Synod  an  account  of  it  with  their  official  reports  at  the  next 
Synodical  Meeting,  in  order  that  it  might  thus  be  known  whether  and 
in  how  far  the  gifts  received  by  them  suffice  for  their  support.   Approved. 

After  this  the  Protocol  of  last  year's  meeting  was  read,  and  the  fol- 
lowing papers  were  handed  in  : 

1.  A  letter  from  Whitpen. 

2.  "  "      Gotfried  Haga. 

3.  "  "      Johannes  Fischer. 

4.  "  "      the  State  of  Ohio. 

5.  "  concerning  taxes  on  church  property  in  Pennsylvania. 

6.  "  from  Crawford  County. 

7.  "  "      New  Hanover. 

8.  "  "      Rockingham  County. 

9.  "      Mr.  Haas,  excusing  himself;   letter  contains  his 

pastoral  report. 

10.  "    Stauch,  excusing  himself;  letter  contains  his 

pastoral  report. 

11.  "  "      Miami. 

12.  "  "      Manheim. 


390  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

13.  A  letter  of  excuse  from  Mr.  Stauch. 

14.  "        from  Rev.  Kessler's  congregation. 

15.  "  "      the  Fisel's  congregation,  and  other  congregations 

united  with  it. 

16.  Testimonials  from  Mr.  Steck's  congregations. 

17.  "  "       "     Sanno's  congregations. 

18.  Mr.  Scriba  has  something  to  bring  before  Synod  verbally. 

19.  A  letter  from  Halifax  Township,  in  which  petition  is  made  for 

Mr.  Petersen. 

20.  "k 

91 '     /  Letters  from  Mount  Joy,  Elizabethtown,  Maytown,  etc.,  con- 

'     \      cerning  Mr.  Cramer. 

23.    ) 

9  .      >  Letters  from  Friedrichstadt,  concerning  Mr.  Schafer,  Jr. 

25.  Letters  from  Adams  County. 

26.  "         "      Macunshy. 

27.  "         "      Bender's  church. 

28.  "         "     Nordkill,  Berks  County. 

The  reports  of  the  special  meetings  were  presented. 

1.  The  York  District  handed  in  its  transactions  in  writing,  referring 
to  Mr.  Herbst,  and  as  no  complainants  were  present,  it  was  resolved  to 
let  the  matter  rest. 

2.  The  Lancaster  District  made  a  verbal  report  of  its  transactions. 

3.  The  District  of  Virginia  handed  in  a  printed  report,  which  was 
read  in  part,  and  with  which  the  Synod  expressed  its  satisfaction. 

Ad.  No.  1.  A  letter  from  Whitpen  was  read,  in  which  request  was 
made  for  Mr.  Schafer,  Jr.,  as  preacher,  but  if  he  could  not  accept  the 
congregation,  they  request  that  another  pastor  be  sent  them  as  soon  as 
possible. 

Moved  and  resolved,  that  Mr.  Scriba  visit  the  said  congregations,  and 
if  they  accept  him  as  preacher,  that  his  license  be  prepared  for  this 
congregation.     Approved. 

Ad  No.  2.  The  letter  of  Mr.  Gottfried  Haga  was  read,  which  referred 
to  family  matters. 

Ad.  No.  3.  Contains  a  request  of  the  Mosheim  Society  in  Philadel- 
phia, that  the  preachers  might  exert  themselves  to  recommend  a  small 
German  children's  book  in  their  congregations. 

Ad.  No.  4.  Contains  hearty  thanks  from  congregations  in  the  State  of 
Ohio,  who  thank  the  Synod,  that  the  traveling  preacher,  Mr.  Paul 
Henkel,  visited  them  ;  also  the  request  that  the  said  pastor  settle  and 
make  his  home  with  them.  Whereupon  it  was  resolved,  that  the  travel- 
ing preacher,  Mr.  Simon,  shall  visit  them. 


SIXTY-FIRST  CONVENTION,  1808.  391 

The  afternoon  session  was  closed  with  prayer,  and  the  meeting  was 
dismissed. 

This  evening  Mr.  Rothrauff  preached  on  James  2  :  21  f. 

June  14th,  a.m. 

Tuesday  morning  the  Synod  was  opened  with  prayer,  and  the  tran- 
sactions continued. 

Ad.  No.  6.  A  letter  from  Crawford  County  was  read,  in  which  peti- 
tion is  made  for  a  preacher.  As  no  pastor  offered  to  serve  this  district 
as  preacher,  it  was  resolved,  that  one  of  the  traveling  preachers  visit 
them,  and  preach  the  Gospel  to  them. 

Ad.  No.  5.  Contains  a  petition  to  the  Assembly  of  Pennsylvania,  that 
their  churches,  school-houses,  and  other  real  estate  [liegende  Griinde] 
belonging  to  the  congregations  might  not  be  taxed. 

Ad.  No.  17  and  27.  Letters  from  Mr.  Sanno's  congregations  were 
read,  in  which  it  is  shown  that  he  no  longer  desires  to  serve  them  as 
preacher,  and  request  is  made  for  another  teacher.  Resolved,  That  Mr. 
Scriba  visit  the  congregations,  and  if  they  desire  him,  may  accept  them. 

Ad.  No.  8.  The  letter  from  Rockingham  County  urgently  petitions 
for  a  pastor  in  that  district.  Moved  and  seconded,  that  Pastor  Schmucker 
answer  the  congregations  in  writing,  that  Pastor  Moller  will  visit  them. 

Ad.  Nos.  10  and  13.  Contain  reports  of  Mr.  Stauch's  labors  in  his 
congregations,  in  which  he  at  the  same  time  requests  that  Mr.  Simon,  if 
he  was  examined  and  found  capable,  might  go  to  the  district  of  Jeffer- 
son and  Trumbull. 

No.  11.  A  letter  from  Miami  was  read,  in  which  request  is  made  that 
one  of  the  traveling  preachers  visit  them. 

No.  14.  Contains  letters  from  Mr.  Kessler's  congregations,  which  tes- 
tify to  their  satisfaction  with  him  as  their  preacher. 

Nos.  20,  21,  22.  Contain  testimonials  of  their  satisfaction  with  their 
preacher,  Mr.  Cramer. 

No.  23.  A  letter  from  Fried richstadt  was  read,  in  which  report  is 
made,  that  the  congregation  called  Mr.  Schafer,  Jr.,  as  their  teacher, 
and  request  is  made  that  he  be  granted  a  license  for  the  said  congrega- 
tion. Thereupon  it  was  moved  and  resolved  that  his  license  be  prepared 
for  this  congregation. 

No.  25.  A  letter  from  Adams  County  was  read,  in  which  request  is 
made  that  Rev.  Mr.  Rehman  serve  the  St.  John's  congregation  in  the 
said  county  as  its  pastor.  Moved  and  seconded  [resolved],  that  as 
objections  arc  made,  the  matter  relating  to  Mr.  Rehman  be  postponed 
until  the  Ministerial  Meeting.     Approved. 

No.  26.  Letters  from  Macunschy  petition  for  a  pastor.  Resolved, 
That  this  matter  be  decided  in  the  Ministerial  Meeting. 


392 


DOCUMENTARY  HISTOEY. 


No.  28.  A  letter  from  Nordkill  was  read,  in  which  request  is  made 
for  Mr.  Riemensckneider  as  their  preacher.  Resolved,  That  this  re- 
quest be  referred  to  the  Ministerial  Meeting. 

The  following  reports  of  the  number  of  baptized,  confirmed,  com- 
municants, deceased  and  schools  were  handed  in  : 

Com- 


Bap-     Con-    muni-     De- 
tized.  firmed,  cants,  ceased.  Schools 


Pastor  Schultz .  . 
Dr.  Helmuth  .  . 
Pastor  Schmidt  . 
Dr.  Muhlenberg . 
Pastor  Melsheimer 

"  Kurtz  .    . 

"  Schafer    . 

"  Lehman  . 

"  Lochman . 

"  Schmucker 

"  Jager  .    . 

"  Rothrauff 

"  Dill.  . 

"  Endress 

"  Plitt.  . 

"  Herbst . 

"  Jasinsky 

"  Geisenheiner 

"  Roller  . 

"  Ilgen    . 

"  Moller . 

"  Butler  . 

"  Stok.  . 

"  Sanno  . 

"  Knoske 

"  Scriba . 

"  Walter 

"  Petersen 

"  Cramer 

"  Mensch 

"  Stout    . 

"  Heine  . 

"  Schafer 


.  Tulpehocken 

>■  Philadelphia 

.  Lancaster   .    .    .    .176 

.  Hanover 115 

.  Baltimore    .    .    .    .150 
.  Germantown  .   •    .    97 

.  Misillum 198 

.  Lebanon 184 

.  Hegerstadt     .    .    .139 

(  Hanover  .    . 

1  Northampton 

.  Greencastle  . 

.  Plainfield     . 

.  East  Town  . 

.  New  Holland 

.  Fisel's  Congregation  183 

.  Pikeland 80 


441     83    1082   172 


91 

187 

243 


63 
73 

19 

123 

99 


467 
338 
264 
224 
1120 
718 
348 


.  Whitehall  .  .  .  .163 
.  Goschenhoppen  .  .104 
.  Aaronsburg  .  .  .  193 
.  Chambersburg  .  .  88 
.  Fort  Cumberland  .  28 
.  Catawissa    ....    74 

.  Carlisle 198 

.  Manheim,  Berks  Co.  165 
(  Manheim,  Lancas- 

1      ter  Co 

.  Middleburgh  ...  496   127 

.  Carlisle 184     48 

.  Maytown  ....  116  65 
.  Springfield  ....  148  43 
.  Traveling  Preacher  —     — 


35 

63 

391 

70 
32 
69 
64 
56 
19 
53 
32 
63 
62 


278 
362 

713 
298 
138 
873 
401 
743 
117 
227 
84 
220 
387 


801 
274 
427 

188 


37 

27 
57 
31 
33 
41 
29 


9 
23 

20 
19 
18 
31 
27 
15 
19 
7 
4 
18 
19 


30  37   86   12 


45 
29 
14 
40 


187  83  567   28   8 


Whitpen 


25  53   45   6 


SIXTY-FIRST  CONVENTION,   1808. 


393 


Com- 

Bap- 

Con- 

muni- 

De- 

tized. 

firmed. 

cants. 

ceased. 

3cho( 

Pastor  Kessler 

.    .    .  Cumberland    .    . 

.     — 

— 



— 

— 

"      Lange . 

.  202 

82 

296 

32 

— 

M      Stanch . 

.    .  Ohio 

.  323 

43 

356 

11 

— 

"      Haas    . 

.    .  Huntington    .    . 

.    50 

— 

30 

6 

— 

"      Stcck   . 

.    .  Greensburg    .    . 

.  249 

50 

454 

28 

— 

■      Flor.  . 

.    .  "Wythe  County  . 

.  134 

14 

103 

6 

4 

"      Rehman1 

.  135 

63 

475 

14 

4 

It  was  then  moved  and  resolved,  that  a  small  pamphlet,  similar  to 
that  of  last  year,  be  prepared,  which  should  give  a  fuller  account  of 
the  condition  of  our  German  Evangelical  Lutheran  congregations; 
that  Dr.  Muhlenberg  prepare  this  paper,  attend  to  the  printing,  and 
have  5000  copies  printed. 

The  time  and  the  place  of  the  next  Synodical  Meeting  were  then 
decided  upon. 

Time,  Trinity  Sunday ;  Place,  Hanover,  Pennsylvania. 

The  session  was  closed  with  singing  and  prayer. 


[MINISTERIAL  MEETING.] 


P.M. 

On  Tuesday  afternoon  the  Ministerial  Meeting  was  opened  with 
prayer. 

(No.  29.  The  report  of  the  Special  Meeting  in  the  Fisel's  congrega- 
tion again  came  up,  and,  after  it  was  read,  it  was  resolved,  that  this 
report  be  laid  aside  (beigelegt).) 

The  candidates  handed  in  their  papers  as  follows  : 


Licenses. 

Sermons. 

Diaries. 

Candidate  Mr 

Stock 1 

1 

1 

(i 

(< 

— 

— 

<« 

<< 

1 

« 

tt 

— 

<< 

n 

Walter 1 

1 

« 

d 

— 

<i 

M 

^V.dded  later. 

1 

394  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Licenses.       Sermons.       Diaries. 

Candidate  Mr.  Mensch 1  1  1 

"  "    Rehman 1  and  a  "  Relation." 

"    Schiifer,  Jr.     ...     1  1  1 

"    Heine  excused  himself,  being  ignorant  of 
the  rules. 

Pastor  Lehman  presented  the  name  of  Mr.  Riemenschneider  as  an 
applicant  for  the  ministry.  The  committee  was  appointed  to  look 
through  the  sermons  and  diaries  of  the  candidates,  and  to  examine 
them. 

Pastors  Schmidt  and  Eudress  were  appointed  to  examine  the  work 
of  Messrs.  Stock  and  Knoske.  They  testify  to  their  satisfaction,  and 
recommend  that  their  licenses  be  renewed. 

Pastors  Schiifer  and  Jager  were  appointed  to  examine  Messrs.  Scriba 
and  Walter,  and  their  work.  They  testify  to  their  satisfaction,  and 
recommend  that  their  licenses  be  renewed. 

Pastors  Schmucker  and  Lehman  were  appointed  to  look  over  the  ser- 
mons of  Messrs.  Cramer  and  Mensch,  and  gave  judgment  that  they 
were  good.     They  recommended  the  renewal  of  their  licenses. 

Dr.  Helmuth  and  Lochman  were  appointed  to  examine  Mr.  Schiifer, 
Jr.,  Mr.  Heine  and  Riemenschneider,  and  testify  to  their  satisfaction. 

Pastor  Plitt,  Ilgen  and  Rothrauff  were  appointed  to  look  over  the 
report  of  the  traveling  preacher,  Mr.  Stauch  [Stout]. 

Ad.  No.  28  and  12.  Contain  letters  from  Nordkill  and  Manheim, 
which  petition  for  Mr.  Riemenschneider  as  their  preacher.  Whereupon 
it  was  moved  and  resolved,  to  advise  the  said  Riemenschneider  to  go  to 
the  congregation  at  Nordkill. 

Ad.  No.  26.  Petitions  for  a  pastor  for  Macunschy.  Whereupon  it 
was  moved  and  resolved,  that  Mr.  Heine  visit  this  congregation,  and,  if 
he  receives  a  call,  that  a  license  be  prepared  for  him  for  this  congre- 
gation by  the  officers  in  the  name  of  the  Ministerium. 

Ad.  No.  19.  Contains  a  letter  from  Halifax  Township,  Dauphin 
County,  in  which  request  is  made  for  Mr.  Petersen  as  their  pastor. 
Moved  and  resolved,  that  Rev.  Mr.  Petersen  may  accept  and  serve 
them. 

Ad.  No  16.  Contains  testimonials  of  satisfaction  from  Mr.  Stock's 
congregation. 

The  New  Hanover  congregation  petitions  for  Mr.  Miller  as  its 
preacher.  Moved  and  resolved,  that  this  petition  be  granted,  in  case 
he  be  found  capable,  after  being  examined.  Dr.  Helmuth  and  Schmidt 
in  the  meanwhile  retain  the  license,  and  will  hand  it  over  to  him,  if  the 
said  Mr.  Miller  passes  his  examination. 


SIXTY-FIRST  CONVENTION,   1808.  395 

It  was  already  late  when  Mr.  Rebenak  sent  a  letter  to  the  Synod. 
Resolved,  That  the  President  answer  it. 

Ad.  No.  25.  The  matter  regarding  Mr.  Rehman  was  further  inves- 
tigated. "Whereupon  it  was  moved  and  resolved,  that  Mr.  Rehman  be 
advised,  in  the  name  of  the  Ministerium,  not  to  accept  the  congregation 
at  St.  John's  Church,  and  that  the  President  give  him  friendly  advice 
not  to  go  into  other  pastors'  congregations  (fremde  Gemeinden). 

The  committees  express  their  satisfaction  with  Messrs.  Schiifer,  Jr., 
Heine,  Simon  and  Riemenschneider,  and  recommend  that  full  license 
be  given  them. 

The  committee  passes  favorable  judgment  on  Mr.  Stout,  and  advises 
him  that  he  be  a  candidate  for  congregations  near  Lewistown,  for 
which  place  license  shall  be  given  him  by  the  officers. 

Moved  and  resolved,  that  Mr.  Sanno's  license  be  renewed,  if  he  sends 
the  usual  papers,  sermons,  diary,  etc.,  to  the  officers,  and  if  they  are 
satisfied  with  it. 

The  President  then  closed  the  Ministerial  Meeting  with  prayer. 

Attested  by 

Henrich  Muhlenberg, 

President. 

Daniel  Kurtz, 

Secretary. 


SIXTY-SECOND  CONVENTION. 

1809. 

Hanover,  York  County. 


Transactions  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Synodic  al  Meeting  held 
at  Hanover,  May  28,  1809,  and  the  Following  Days. 

Early  on  Sunday  morning,  the  preachers  and  the  delegates  of  the 
various  congregations  assembled,  and  went  in  procession  to  the  church, 
which  was  to  be  consecrated. 

Pastor  Schmidt  consecrated  the  church  with  an  earnest  prayer,  and 
named  it  St.  Michael's  Church,  and  Dr.  Muhlenberg,  Sr.,  preached  the 
consecration  sermon  on  Acts  10 :  34-44.  Rev.  Mr.  Stauch  also 
preached  this  morning  in  the  Keformed  Church,  on  John  3  :  16.  In 
the  afternoon,  Mr.  Lochmann  preached  in  the  Lutheran  Church,  on 
Luke  23 :  24 ;  and  in  the  evening,  Mr.  Schmucker  on  II  Cor.  5:19,  20. 

On  Monday  morning,  May  29th,  the  preachers  and  the  delegates  upon 
invitation,  arrived  at  the  church,  and  the  President,  Mr.  Muhlenberg, 
opened  the  Synod  with  prayer,  whereupon  the  transactions  began. 

The  Preachers  Present  were: 

1.  Pastor  Schmidt,  from  Philadelphia. 

2.  "  Dr.  Muhlenberg,  from  Lancaster. 

3.  "  Kurtz,  from  Baltimore. 

4.  "  Melzheimer,  from  Hanover. 

5.  "  Schaefer,  Sr.,  from  Germantown. 

6.  "  Carpenter,  from  Culpepper. 

7.  "  Hinkel,  from  New  Market. 

8.  "  Lochmann,  from  Lehanon. 

9.  "  Schmucker,  from  Hegerstadt. 

10.  "  Jager,  from  Hanover,  Northampton  County. 

11.  "  Routhrauff,  from  Greencastle. 

12.  "  Endress,  from  Easttown. 

13.  «  Plitt,  from  New  Holland. 

14.  "  Grobp,  from  Taneytown. 

15.  "  Kreber,  from  Middletown. 
396 


SIXTY-SECOND  CONVENTION,   1809.  397 

16.  Pastor  Stuuch,  from  State  of  Ohio. 

17.  "  Herbst,  from  Fissel's  Church. 

18.  "  Moeller,  from  Chambersburg. 

19.  "  Muhlenberg,  Jr.,  from  Reading. 

20.  "  Buttler,  from  Fort  Cumberland. 

Candidates  Present  were: 

1.  Mr.  Stock,  from  Catawissa. 

2.  "  Sanno,  from  Carlisle. 

3.  "  Knoske,  from  Manheim,  Berks  County. 

4.  "  Scriba,  from  Manheim,  Lancaster  County. 

5.  "  Walter,  from  Middleburg. 

6.  "  Petersen,  from  Harrisburg. 

7.  "  Cramer,  from  Maytown. 

8.  "  Haas,  from  Huntington. 

9.  "  Rehman,  from  Abbottstown. 

10.  "  Melzheimer,  from  Bender's  Church. 

11.  "  D.  Schaefer,  from  Fricdrichtown. 

12.  "  Kessler,  from  Cumberland. 

13.  "  Heine,  from  Macunshy. 

14.  "  Simon,  from  State  of  Ohio. 

15.  "  Ptiemenschneider,  from  Nordkill. 

Catechist  Present  was  : 
1.  Mr.  Miller,  from  Goshenhoppen. 

Applicants  for  the  ministry  were: 


1. 

Mr, 

.  Joh.  P.  Hecht. 

2. 

a 

Sol.  Schaefer. 

3. 

u 

"Wilhelm  Petis  [Batis]. 

4. 

« 

Henrich  Weigand. 

5. 

n 

Daniel  Ulrich. 

6. 

« 

Georg  Hein. 

7. 

<« 

Friedrich  Engel. 

8. 

it 

Tiedeman. 

9. 

«< 

Wilhelm  Meyer. 

10. 

tt 

Ernst. 

11. 

a 

Friedrich  Osterlo. 

Preachei-s  absent  were:  1.  Dr.  Hebmith,  with  written  excuse,  and 
recommends  the  Bible  Society  to  the  preachers  and  delegates;  2.  Mr. 
Streit  had  himself  excused  verbally  ;  3.  Mr.  Lehman,  with  verbal  ex- 


398  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

cuse ;  4.  Mr.  Geisenheiner,  Sr.,  with  written  excuse ;  5.  Mr.  Dill  had 
his  absence  excused  verbally  through  Mr.  Endress ;  6.  Mr.  Jasiusky,  no 
excuse ;  7.  Mr.  Geisenheiner,  Jr.,  no  excuse ;  8.  Mr.  Roeller  had  him- 
self excused  verbally  through  Mr.  Schaefer ;  9.  Mr.  Ilgen  excused  him- 
self neither  in  writing  nor  verbally ;  10.  Mr.  Foltz  excused  himself 
neither  in  writing  nor  verbally  ;  11.  Mr.  Forster  excused  himself  neither 
in  writing  nor  verbally ;  12.  Mr.  Spindler  excused  himself  neither  in 
writing  nor  verbally  ;  13.  Mr  Flohr  excused  himself  neither  in  writing 
nor  verbally ;  14.  Mr.  Steck  excused  himself  neither  in  writing  nor 
verbally. 

Candidates  absent  were:  1.  Mr.  Mensch  excused  himself  because  of 
sickness ;  2.  Mr.  Lange  and  3,  the  traveling  preacher,  Mr.  Stout,  ex- 
cused themselves  neither  in  writing  nor  verbally. 

Delegates  Present  with  Written  Credentials  were: 

1.  Mr.  Lange,  from  Philadelphia. 

2.  "  Schindel,  from  Lancaster. 

3.  "  Sauerwein,  from  Baltimore. 

4.  "  Schlegel,  from  Hanover. 

5.  "  Einbich,  from  Lebanon. 

6.  "  New,  from  Hagerstown. 

7.  "  Schindel,  from  Greencastle. 

8.  "  Schipman,  from  Easttown. 

9.  "  Noll,  from  Taney  town. 

10.  "  Mattes,  from  Fissel's  Church. 

11.  "  Reis,  from  Fort  Cumberland. 

12.  "  Barnitz,  from  Chambersburg. 

13.  "  Marter.  from  Carlisle. 

14.  "  Onrich,  from  Manheiro,  Berks  County. 

15.  "  Walter,  from  Middleburg. 

16.  "  Schoch,  from  Harrisburg. 

17.  "  Wolfe,  from  May  town. 

18.  "  Schnerr,  from  Huntington. 

19.  "  Kirshman,  from  Abbotstown. 

20.  "  Bogen,  from  Friedrichstown. 

21.  "  Klein,  from  Macunshy. 

22.  "  Filbert,  from  Nordkill. 

23.  "  Arndt,  from  Bender's  Church. 

Preachers  present,  20 ;  Candidates  present,  15.  Total,  35.  Dele- 
gates present,  23.  Preachers  absent,  14;  Candidate  absent,  3.  Total,  17. 


SIXTY-SECOND  CONVENTION,   1809. 


399 


The  animal  election  of  officers  was  then  held,  and  after  the  votes 
were  collected,  it  was  found  that 

1.  Dr.  Miihlenherg  was  elected  President. 

2.  "     Kurtz  was  elected  Secretary. 

3.  "     Schmidt  was  elected  Treasurer. 


The  Treasurer,  Pastor  Schmidt,  presented  the  account  of  receipts  and 
expenditures  of  the  Synodical  Treasury  for  the  last  year,  from  which  it 
appeared  that  the  receipts  amounted  to  8557.30  and  the  expenditures 
to  $206.33,  leaving  a  balance  of  $350.97  in  the  treasury. 

Rev.  Messrs.  Plitt  and  Endress,  and  the  delegates,  Messrs.  Lange 
and  Schindel,  were  named  as  a  committee  to  examine  the  accounts,  and 
as  they  were  fouud  correct,  the  officers  signed  them. 

The  following  contributions  to  the  Synodical  Treasury  were  gathered 
this  year  and  handed  over  to  the  Treasurer,  viz. : 


By  Mr.  Schindel  . 

. 

£20.00 

'     "     Sauerwein    . 

30.00 

1  Rev.  Melsheimer 

8  00 

1      "     Schaeffer    . 

.    .  Germantown    .... 

'     "     Carpenter  . 

29.06 

'  Delegates    .    .    . 

20.00 

<           <« 

. 

20.25 

<           n 

. 

.    .  Hanover,  Northampton 

.  21.25 

«             u 

. 

6.00 

<                    M 

. 

.  Plainfield 

4.50 

«  Rev.  Plitt    . 

. 

.    .  New  Holland   .    .    .    . 

42.46 

1      "     Kreber 

4.00 

1      "     Herbst 

.    .  Fissel's  Church    .    .    . 

13.50 

'      "      Mc'.ller 

.    .  Chambersburg      .    .    . 

5.00 

'      "      Butler 

.    .  Fort  Cumberland     .    . 

4.70  } 

A  gift  from  Rev.  Sann 

o  and  his  delegates    .    .    . 

6.00 

By  Rev.  Walter  .    . 

16.25 

"      "     Rehman     . 

.    .  Abbotstown 

19.74  } 

((          u                   U 

.    .  Zion's  Church  .    .    .    . 

7.02* 

<i       n              h 

.    .  Macunshy 

19.62* 

"  Mr.  Riemenschneid 

5.05 

A 

gift  from  Mr.  1 

[eine 

5.00 

The  following  papers  were  handed  to  the  Synod  : 
1.  A  letter  from  Whitpain,  referring  to  the  young  Mr.  Solomon 
Schaeffer. 


400  DOCUMENTARY  HISTOEY. 

2.  A  letter  from  Sunbury  -\     ...       „     ,,     _      ..__.. 
0       ,,             „     T    ,      ,   X7  ,,         /   Asking  tor  Mr.  Daniel  Ulrich 

3.  "  "      Lyken  s  Valley     >■  °  , 

4.  -  -  Tulpehocken        )   &S  Preacher' 

5.  "  "  Pottsgrove,  etc.,  desire  Mr.  Hecht  as  pastor. 

6.  "  "  Mr.  Engel. 

7.  "  "  Falknerschwaunn,     asking    for    Mr.    Miller    as 

preacher. 

8.  "  "      Morris  Cove,  referring  to  Mr.  Haas. 

9.  "  "      Northumberland,  asking  for  Mr.  Heine  as  preacher, 

10.  "  "      Manheim  and  Weis  Eichenland,  where  Mr.  Riem- 

enschneider  is  desired  as  preacher. 

11.  Mr.  Onvich  has  something  to  remark  verbally  concerning  Mr. 

Knoske's  leaving. 

12.  Letters  from  Rockingham  County,  asking  for  a  preacher. 

13.  Letter  from  Mr.  Osterlo,  who  seeks  to  be  received. 

14.  Letter  of  excuse  from  Pastor  Geisenheiner,  of  New  York. 

15.  "        "  "     Dr.  Helmuth,  of  Philadelphia. 

16.  Letters  from  Bender's  and  Arndt's  Churches. 

17.  "         "      the  State  of  Ohio,  asking  for  Mr.  Simon  as  preacher. 

18.  "         "      Washington,  Pennsylvania,  Pigeon  Creek,  asking 

for  Mr.  Weigand  as  pastor. 

19.  "         "     St.  John's    Church,  concerning   disputes  (Streitig- 

keiten). 

20.  A  letter  from  Mr.  Tiedeman,  who  petitions  for  aid  from  the 
Synodical  Treasury,  to  enable  him  to  continue  his  studies. 

21.  A  letter  from  Bern,  Berks  County. 

Ad.  No.  5.  As  the  applicant,  Mr.  Hecht,  must  leave  early  on  ac- 
count of  the  stage,  it  was  moved  and  resolved  that  the  President  should 
appoint  a  committee  to  examine  the  applicant  and  report  to  the  Minis, 
terium.     Approved. 

(The  committee  consisted  of  Rev.  Plitt  and  Endress,  who  examined 
him  in  languages,  dogmatics,  church  history,  etc.,  expressed  their  satis- 
faction with  him,  and  at  the  same  time  proposed  that  a  license  for  Potts- 
grove, etc.,  be  prepared  and  given  him.  Approved.)  [Cancelled  in 
the  Protocol.] 

Hereupon  the  Protocol  of  last  year  was  read. 

As  the  pamphlet  which  was  appointed  to  be  printed,  and  which  was 
to  contain  a  relation  concerning  our  Evangelical  Lutheran  congrega- 
tions, could  not  be  printed  because  of  the  lack  of  completeness  in  respect 
to  the  congregations,  it  was  moved  and  resolved  that  the  preachers, 
when  they  hand  in  their  official  report;  at  the  same  time  give  a  list  of 


SIXTY-SECOND  CONVENTION,    1809.  401 

the  names  of  all  their  congregations,  and  also  of  the  vacant  congrega- 
tions in  their  neighborhood. 

The  reports  of  the  Special  Conferences  were  handed  in. 

1.  The  Virginia  District  handed  in  a  printed  report,  which  Avas  read 
in  part.     2.  The  Baltimore  District  made  a  verbal  report. 

The  morning  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

Monday,  p.m.,  the  Synodical  business  was  continued,  after  prayer. 

The  letter  No.  12,  from  Rockingham  County,  was  read,  in  which 
petition  is  made  for  a  preacher.  Whereupon  it  was  moved  and  re- 
solved that  if  a  preacher  desired  to  accept  the  said  congregation,  he 
should  give  notice  to  the  President. 

No.  8  was  read,  in  which  petition  is  made  that  Mr.  Haas  might  serve 
the  congregation  in  Morris  Cove,  etc.,  and  other  congregations,  with 
preaching.  This  request  was  granted.  As  some  complaints  were  made 
against  Mr.  Haas  by  Huntingdon,  but,  as  it  seems,  without  foundation, 
it  was  moved  and  resolved  to  leave  it  to  the  conscientious  judgment  of 
the  said  pastor,  whether  he  would  retain  or  give  up  this  congregation. 

No.  17.  Contains  letters  of  thanksgiving  from  Ohio,  thanking  that  the 
traveling  preacher,  Mr.  Simon,  preached  the  Gospel  unto  them,  and 
asking  that  he  be  appointed  their  permanent  preacher.  Moved  and 
seconded  that  the  request  be  granted  and  his  license  be  prepared  for 
this  congregation.     Approved. 

No.  18  was  read,  in  which  petition  is  made  that  Mr.  Weigand  might 
be  appointed  as  pastor  in  Washington,  Pennsylvania, — Pigeon  Creek. 
Resolved,  That  the  request  be  granted ;  provided  Mr.  Weigand  passes 
his  examination. 

Nos.  2  and  3.  Contain  letters  from  Lyken's  Valley,  in  all  eight  con- 
gregations. 

No.  4.  Contains  letters  from  Tulpehocken,  which  were  read,  asking 
for  Mr.  Ulrich  as  preacher.  As  both  congregations  claim  the  said 
preacher,  since  he  seemed  to  have  given  them  a  promise  in  advance, 
after  mature  deliberation  it  was  moved  and  seconded  that  Mr.  Ulrich  be 
advised  to  accept  the  call  to  Lyken's  Valley  and  serve  the  congrega- 
tions there  ;  provided  he  pass  his  examination.     Approved. 

No.  7.  Contains  letters  from  Falknerschwaunn,  which  were  read,  and 
in  which  they  express  their  satisfaction  with  Mr.  Miller,  and  at  the 
same  time  request  that  he  might  be  appointed  their  preacher.  Moved 
and  resolved  to  prepare  for  Mr.  Miller  a  license  for  the  said  congrega- 
tion ;  provided  he  pass  his  examination.     Approved. 

No.  1  was  read,  in  which  petition  is  made  for  Mr.  Sol.  SchaefFer,  of 

Whitpain,  as  their  preacher.    Moved  and  resolved  that  this  petition  be 

granted  ;  provided  Mr.  SchaefFer  pass  his  examination.     Approved. 
26 


402  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

No.  9.  Contain  letters  from  Northumberland,  which  petition  for  Mr. 
Heim  as  their  preacher.     Postponed  until  the  Ministerial  Meeting. 

No.  16.  Contains  letters  from  Benders  and  Arndt's  church,  which 
make  request  for  the  young  Mr.  Melsheimer  as  preacher.  Postponed 
until  the  Ministerial  Meeting. 

No.  10.  Contain  letters  from  Manheim  and  Weis-Eichenland,  which 
were  read ;  they  testify  to  their  satisfaction  with  Mr.  Rienienschneider, 
and  a  request  from  Cocalico,  that  the  said  preacher  might  serve  them. 
Postponed  to  the  Ministerial  Meeting. 

The  preachers  handed  in  the  following  official  reports  of  their  con- 
gregations : 

1.  Pastor  Schmidt,  of  Philadelphia,  reported  3  congregations  in  Phila- 

delphia ;  1  in  Cohensie,  1  in  Glashaus.  Baptized,  517;  con- 
firmed, 85;  communicants,  1278;  deceased,  165;  schools,  5. 

2.  Dr.  Muhlenberg,  1  church,  1  filial,  in  and  near  Lancaster.    Baptized, 

142  ;  confirmed,  67  ;  communicants,  465  ;  deceased,  28  ;  schools,  1. 

3.  Pastor  Streit,  from  Winchester,  reported  1   congregation  at  Win- 

chester, 1  in  Newstadt,  1  in  Stauferstadt  and  1  on  Biber  Creek. 

4.  Rev.  Mr.  Lehman1. 

5.  "         "  "         Tulpehocken,  1  ;  Rohrersburg,  1 ;  Vfomelsdorf 

1 ;  Heidelberg,  1 ;  Reed's  church,  1 ;  Schaferstadt,  1 ;  Warwick,  1. 

6.  Rev.  Kurtz,  from  Baltimore,  1  congregation.     Baptized,  129 ;  con- 

firmed, 43  ;  communicants,  313  ;  deceased,  50. 

7.  Rev.  Melsheimer  reported  1  congregation  in  Hanover,  1  David's 

church,  1  Jacob's  church,  1  Kleindienst. 

8.  Rev.  Schaefer  reported  1  congregation  in  Germantown,  and  6  filial?, 

viz.,  at  Frankford,  Barren  Hill,  Merion,  Whitpain,  Oberdnblin 
and  Hamilton.  Baptized,  115;  confirmed,  35 ;  communicants, 
349 ;  deceased,  26. 

9.  Rev.  Carpenter,  from  Culpepper,  1   congregation.     Baptized,  57; 

communicants,  135  ;  deceased,  12  ;  schools,  4  [?]. 

10.  Rev.  Hinkel. 

11.  Rev.  Lochman  reported:   1   congregation  at  Lebanon,  1  Millers- 

town,  1  Bergkirche,  1  Bindnagel's,  1  Caramel's  [?],  1  Jonestown, 
1  Brick  church  [Ziegelkirche]  and  two  vacant  congregations. 
Baptized,  181 ;  confirmed,  103  ;  communicants,  783  ;  deceased, 
38;  schools,  [?]. 

12.  Rev.  Schmucker  reported  1  congregation  in  Hegerstadt,  1  Conoqui- 

cheague,  1  Bord's  church,  1  Funkstown.  Baptized,  142;  con- 
firmed, 74;  communicants,  371 ;  deceased,  33. 

1  The  edge  of  this  page,  223,  is  broken  off. 


SIXTY-SECOND  CONVENTION,   1809.  403 

13.  Rev.  RothraufF  reported  1  congregation  in  Greencastle,  1  Strasburg, 
1  Mercersburg,  1  McConnelstown,  1  Falling  Spring,  1  Fisher's, 
1  Jacobs'  church,  1  Appel's  church,  1  Thomas'  Creek.  Baptized, 
128;  confirmed,  63;  communicants,  401 ;  deceased,  8. 

14 reported  1    congregation   in  York,  1    Quikel's,  1   Holz- 

schwamm,  1  Wolf,  1  Creutz  Creek,  [Cha]ckely. 

15.  Rev.   Endress  reported   1   congregation  in  Easton,  1   St.  John's 

church,  1  Williams  Township,  1  Lower  Saucon,  and  Hartwig, 
Chestnut  Hill,  Harmony,  Towamensin  and  Penn  Township,  as 
vacant  congregations.  Baptized,  229  ;  confirmed,  72 ;  communi- 
cants, 371 ;  deceased,  38. 

16.  Rev.  Dill  reported  1  congregation,  1  Plainfield,  1  Moore  Township, 

1  Hamilton,  1  Smithfield,  1  Mount  Bethel. 

17.  Rev.  Foltz. 

18.  Rev.  Forster. 

19.  Pastor  Plitt  reported  1  congregation  in  New  Holland,  1  Bergstrasse, 

1  Muddy  Creek,  1  Schwam,  1  Allegheny,  1  Forest,  1  Octoraro. 
Baptized,  182 ;  confirmed,  77 ;  communicants,  605  ;  deceased, 
23 ;  schools,  4. 

20.  Pastor  Grobp  reported  1  congregation  in  Taney  town,  1  Emmits- 

burgh,  1  Silberrun,  1  Catestown,  1  Winters',  1  Mark's,  1  John's 
church.  Baptized,  67  ;  confirmed,  79  ;  communicants,  257  ;  de- 
ceased, 10 ;  schools,  3. 

21.  Pastor  Greber  reported  1  congregation  in  Middletown,  1  St.  Peter's 

church,  1  Geber's,  1  Ringer's.  Baptized,  92  ;  confirmed,  67  ;  com- 
municants, 169;  deceased,  10;  schools,  4. 

22.  Pastor  Spindler. 

23.  "       Flohr. 

24.  «      Stock. 

25.  "  Stauch  reported  14  congregations  without  names  in  Colum- 
bia, Jefferson  and  Trumbull  counties,  and  5  vacant  congregations. 
Baptized,  351 ;  confirmed,  49  ;  communicants,  505  ;  deceased,  9; 
schools,  3. 

26.  Pastor  Herst  [Herbst]  reported  1  congregation  in  Fissel's,  1  Shus- 

ter's,  1  Sadler's,  1  Zion's,  1  Jerusalem,  1  Krauter's.  Baptized, 
194;  confirmed,  31 ;  communicants,  287;  deceased,  28;  schools,  4. 

27.  Pastor  Jasinsky. 

28.  "  Geisenheimer,  Jr.  Baptized,  185;  confirmed,  83;  com- 
municants, 863;  deceased,  33;  schools,  9. 

29.  Pastor  Rocller. 

30.  "  Ilgen  reported  1  congregation  in  Aaronsburgh,  1  Brush  Val- 
ley, 1  Ehrlcs,  1  Meeting-house,  1  Jungmanstadt,  1  New  Berlin. 


404  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

31.  Pastor  Moeller  reported  1  congregation  in  Charnbersburg,  1  Ship- 

pensburg,  1  Campbellstown.  Baptized,  78;  confirmed,  20; 
communicants,  126  ;  deceased,  18. 

32.  Pastor  Muhlenberg,  Jr.,  reported   1   congregation  in  Reading,  1 

Schwarzwald,  1  Spieser's.  Baptized,  110;  confirmed,  61 ;  com- 
municants, 300 ;  deceased,  23  ;  schools,  2. 

33.  Pastor  Butler  reported  1  congregation  in  Cumberland,  1  George 

Hill's,  1  Reitz's,  1  Bohn's,  1  Morristown,  1  Hampshire.  Bap- 
tized, 24;  confirmed,  18;  communicants,  224;  deceased,  4. 

34.  Candidate  Stock  reported  1  congregation  in  Muncy,  1  Fullmer's,  1 

Shamokin,  2  English  and  6  vacant  congregations.  Baptized, 
87  ;  confirmed,  24 ;  communicants,  79  ;  deceased,  9. 

35.  Candidate  Lange. 

36.  "  Knoske  reported  1  Zion's  church,  1  St.  Paul's  church,  1 
St.  John's  church,  1  Salem's,  1  Jacob's  church.  Baptized,  114; 
confirmed,  31 ;  communicants,  408  ;  deceased,  26 ;  schools,  6, 

37.  Candidate  Sanno  reported  1  Carlisle,  1  Sherman's  Valley,  1  Frie- 

den's  church,  1  Trentel's  church,  and  7  vacant  congregations. 
Baptized,  166  ;  confirmed,  129  ;  communicants,  301 ;  deceased, 
19  ;  schools,  2. 

38.  Candidate  Scriba  reported  1  congregation  in  Mifflin,  1  Tuscarora. 

Baptized,  30. 

39.  Candidate  Walter  reported  1  Hossinger's  congregation,  1  Biber- 

damm,  1  Mohr's,  1  Bauermann's,  1  Selinsgrove,  1  Rau,  1  Ritter's, 
1  Mossersthal,  and  16  vacant  congregations.  Baptized,  415 ; 
confirmed,  191  ;  communicants,  975  ;  deaths,  33. 

40.  Candidate  Petersen  reported  1  congregation  in  Harrisburg,  1  Mid- 

dleburgh,  1  Wenrick,  1  Fedderhof,  1  Longstaff.  Baptized,  145 ; 
confirmed,  80  ;  communicants,  317  ;  deceased,  23. 

41.  Candidate  Cramer,   1   congregation  in  May  town,  1   Columbia,  1 

Elizabethtown,  1  Mount  Joy,  1  Hummelstown,  1  Bergkirche  and 
1  vacant  congregation.  Baptized,  114;  confirmed,  90;  com- 
municants, 533  ;  deceased,  16. 

42.  Candidate  Haas,  1  congregation  Huntingdon,  1  Schonbergstadt,  1 

Great  Valley,  1  Woodcock  Valley,  1  Spruce  Creek,  1  Trough 
Creek,  1  Sinking  Valley.  Baptized,  70  ;  confirmed,  32 ;  com- 
municants, 50 ;  deceased,  5. 

43.  Candidate  Mensch.     Baptized,  88  ;  confirmed,  25 ;  communicants, 

175  ;  deceased,  16  ;  schools,  4. 

44.  Candidate  Rehman,  8  congregations.     Baptized,  135 ;  confirmed, 

23  ;  communicants,  362 ;  deceased,  13  ;  schools,  4. 

45.  Candidate  Melsheimer,  Jr.,  reported,  1  Bender's,  1  Arndt's  church. 


SIXTY-SECOND  CONVENTION,   1809.  405 

46.  Candidate  D.  Schaefer,  Jr.,  reported  1  congregation  in  Friedrichs- 

stadt,  1  Woodsbury,  1  Crugertown,  1  Loudon  County.  Baptized, 
174;  confirmed,  200  ;  communicants,  479;  deceased,  38. 

47.  Candidate    Kcssler  reported    1    congregation   in   Cumberland,   1 

Kreiseh,  1  Lehman's  church.    Baptized,  40  ;  confirmed,  17 ;  com- 
municants, 59;  deceased,  14. 

48.  Candidate  Stout. 

49.  "  Heine  reported  1  congregation  in  Macunshy,  1  Saucon, 
1  Solzburgh,  1  Obermilford.  Baptized,  102 ;  confirmed,  79 ; 
communicants,  493 ;  schools,  5. 

50.  Candidate  Simon. 

51.  "  Riemenschneider  reported  1  congregation  in  Nordkill,  1 
Manheim,  1  Weiseichen,  and  2  vacant  congregations.  Baptized, 
37;  confirmed,  2o;  communicants,  163;  deceased,  6. 

52.  Candidate  Miller  reported  1  Falknerschwam,  1  New  Goshenhoppen, 

1  Berger's  church.     Baptized,  39. 

53.  Candidate  Rebanac  reported  1  Martinsburgh,  1  Sheppardstown,  1 

Smithfield,  1  Sherersburgh.     Baptized,  37;  confirmed,  13;  com- 
municants, 35;  deceased,  7;  schools,  1. 

No.  19  contains  a  petition  from  St.  John's  church,  to  settle  disputes 
in  the  congregation  with  the  assurance  that  the  decision  of  the  Synod 
shall  l)e  received  as  binding  by  all  parties. — Hereupon  it  was  moved 
aud  resolved,  that  Rev.  Messrs.  Plitt  and  Lochman  and  the  delegates, 
Messrs.  Lange  and  Shindel  be  a  committee  to  investigate  the  dispute, 
and  report  to  the  Synod  as  soon  as  possible. — After  some  time  the  com- 
mittee made  its  report  with  the  judgment  that  Mr.  Grobp,  who  was 
stationed  in  this  congregation  as  preacher,  shall  continue  to  serve  it. — 
This  report  was  unanimously  approved  and  accepted  by  the  Synod. 

No.  11.  Mr.  Orwich  verbally  petitions  for  a  preacher  in  the  name  of 
some  congregations,  since  Mr.  Knoske  intends  to  leave  them.  Moved 
and  resolved,  to  advise  the  congregations,  to  look  around  for  another 
preacher,  who  would  be  willing  to  serve  them. 

No.  6.  A  letter  from  Northumberland  was  read,  asking  for  Mr. 
Engel  as  preacher.  Moved  and  seconded,  that  this  petition  be  granted, 
if  Mr.  Engel  passes  the  examination. 

No.  15.  Concerning  the  Bible  Society,  which  Dr.  Helmuth,  recom- 
mended, it  was  moved  and  resolved,  that  a  letter  of  thanks  be  prepared 
for  the  said  society,  signed  by  the  officers,  and  sent  to  the  society,  and 
it  be  heartily  thanked  for  the  present  of  German  Testaments  for  the 
benefit  of  the  Germans  who  live  on  the  frontier  (an  den  Grenzcn),  with 
the  promise  that  the  preachers  and  delegates  will  recommend  this  asso- 
ciation to  their  congregations,  and  assist  it  to  the  best  of  their  ability. 


406  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Hereupon  the  time  and  place  of  the  next  Synod  were  decided.  Time, 
Trinity  Sunday ;  place,  Harrisburg. 

After  this  the  Synodical  Meeting  was  closed  with  song  and  prayer, 
and  the  delegates  dismissed.  In  the  evening,  Mr.  Muhlenberg,  Jr., 
preached  on  Revelation  22 :  17. 

Ministerial  Meeting. 

Tuesday,  May  30th,  in  the  morning  at  8  o'clock,  the  President  opened 
the  Ministerial  Meeting  with  prayer,  and  the  business  was  begun. 

The  following  Candidates  were  distributed  to  committees  for  exami- 
nation :  Candidates  Cramer,  Walter  and  Haas  were  assigned  to  Revs. 
Schmueker  and  Lochmann  for  examination ;  Candidates  Knoske,  D. 
Schaeffer  and  Melzheimer  to  Revs.  Endress  and  Carpenter ;  Candidates 
Miller,  Sol.  Schaeffer  and  Ulrich  to  Revs.  Schmidt  and  Jager ;  Messrs. 
Meyer,  Friedman,  Engel  and  Weigand  to  Rev.  Muhlenberg,  Jr.,  and 
Rev.  Moller  to  be  examined. 

Ad.  No.  5.  Rev.  Messrs.  Plitt  and  Endress,  who  were  appointed  a 
committee  to  examine  Mr.  Hecht,  made  the  following  report :  That  they 
had  examined  him  in  Languages,  Dogmatics,  etc.,  and  were  well  satisfied 
with  him,  and  propose  that  a  full  license  be  granted  him.     Approved. 

"With  reference  to  Mr.  Petis  [Baetis]  who  was  recommended  by  Dr. 
Helmuth,  it  was  moved  and  resolved,  that  the  said  Petis  be  examined 
by  the  two  Philadelphia  preachers,  and  if  they  found  him  capable,  a  full 
license  be  prepared  for  him  for  Cohensie,  etc. ,  and  wherever  he  might 
be  used  in  case  of  need  by  one  or  other  of  these  preachers. 

The  following  candidates  handed  in  their  diaries  and  sermons :  Can- 
didate Heine,  one  diary,  two  sermons ;  Candidate  Sanno,  one  sermon  ; 
Candidate  Riemenschneider, one  diary,  two  sermons;  Candidate  Scriba. 

Dr.  Muhlenberg  and  Rev.  Melzheimer  were  appointed  to  examine 
the  work  of  Messrs.  Heine  and  Riemenschneider,  and  Dr.  Schaeffer, 
Sr.,  and  Mr.  Rothrauff,  were  appointed  to  examine  the  work  of  Messrs. 
Sanno  and  Scriba. 

The  morning  session  was  hereupon  closed  with  prayer. 

Tuesday  afternoon,  after  prayer,  the  business  was  again  begun. 

The  committees  made  the  following  reports  : 

Rev.  Messrs.  Schmidt  and  Jager  pass  favorable  judgment  on  Messrs. 
Miller,  S.  Schaeffer  and  D.  Ulrich,  and  propose  that  full  licenses  be 
granted  them,  and  concerning  Mr.  Heine,  they  recommend  that  a  cate- 
chist's  license  be  given  him  on  trial.     Approved. 

Rev.  Muhlenberg,  Jr.,  and  Mr.  Moeller  report  on  Messrs.  Meyer, 
Tiedeman,  Engel  and  Weigand,  as  follows:  That  they  had  moderate 
knowledge  (rnittelinassige  Kenntnisse),  and  that  they  should  be  exhorted 


SIXTY-SECOND  CONVENTION,    1809.  407 

to  diligence  in  study.  They  propose  that  Mr.  Engel  be  given  a  license 
as  catechist  for  certain  congregations,  under  the  supervision  of  Mr. 
Ugen,  likewise  Mr.  Weigand  under  the  supervision  of  Mr.  Stauch.  Also, 
Mr.  Meyer  under  the  supervision  of  Mr.  Hinkel,  but  only  for  one  year, 
until  further  testimony  could  be  obtained. 

Rev.  Messrs.  Schmucker  and  Lochmann  judge  favorably  of  Messrs. 
Cramer,  Walter  and  Haas,  and  their  general  information. 

Rev.  Messrs.  Endress  and  Carpenter  report  on  Messrs.  Knoske,  D. 
Schaetfer  and  Melzheimer,  as  follows  :  That  their  sermons  are  good,  and 
that  they  have  a  fair  knowledge  of  the  languages.  After  mature  delib- 
eration, it  was  resolved  concerning  the  men  proposed  for  ordination, 
that  the  ordination  be  postponed  for  this  year. 

As  the  Senior,  Pastor  Schulze,  departed  in  death  during  last  year,  the 
election  for  the  Seniorate  was  proposed,  but  without  holding  the  elec- 
tion, Dr.  Helmuth  was  unanimously  appointed  as  Senior. 

Upon  recommendation  of  the  assembled  brethren,  the  ordained 
preachers  will  at  the  next  Ministerial  Meeting  unite  on  general  princi- 
ples, according  to  which  the  fitness  for  ordination  can  and  shall  be 
determined  in  a  uniform,  impartial  way. 

No.  12.  Concerning  Rockingham  it  was  resolved,  that  Mr.  Riemen- 
sclmeider  visit  the  congregation  in  that  district,  and  that  they  be  pre- 
viously notified  of  this  by  Mr.  Schmucker. 

Moved  and  seconded,  that  the  licenses  of  all  the  candidates  be  re- 
newed.    Approved. 

Concerning  Mr.  Ernst,  Jr.,  it  was  resolved,  that  he  be  examined  at 
a  Special  Conference  in  the  Easttown  District,  and  if  he  is  found  capa- 
ble, a  license  as  catechist  shall  be  granted  him  by  the  officers. 

A  similar  resolution  was  passed  concerning  Mr.  Osterlo. 

Hereupon  all  the  candidates  and  catechists  were  given  their  licenses 
and  a  wish  of  blessing, 

Answer  was  made  to  Mr.  Tiedeman,  that  the  Ministerium  did  not 
have  sufficient  means  to  advance  to  him  as  much  as  he  needs  for  board, 
studia,  etc. 

l,\  solved,  That  the  accounts  of  the  traveling  preachers  be  postponed 
to  the  next  Synod. 

Rev.  Mr.  Hinkel  was  appointed  traveling  preacher  for  this  year;  he 
was  assigned  to  the  same  districts  he  had  traveled  over  before,  and  under 
the  same  conditions  ;  but  it  is  to  be  distinctly  understood  that  the  Synod 
does  not  bind  itself  to  make  any  payment,  which  the  next  will  not  approve. 

The  traveling  preacher,  Mr.  Hinkel,  last  year  traveled  seventy  days 
and  received  thirty-five  dollars.  Eesolved,  That  he  be  paid  thirty  dollars 
in  addition. 


40S  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

The  traveling  preacher,  Mr.  Simon,  traveled  five  months  and  a  half 
received  seventy-four  dollars  and  sixty-two  cents.  Resolved,  That  fifty 
dollars  more  be  paid  to  him. 

Concerning  Mr.  Rebenack,  who  petitioned  to  be  received  (into  the 
Synod),  it  was  resolved,  that  this  petition  be  postponed  until  the  next 
Synod. 

Hereupon  the  session  was  closed  with  song  and  prayer. 

Rev.  Mr.  Endress  preached  this  evening  on  Rom.  16 :  20. 

Henkich  Muhlenberg, 

President. 
Daniel  Kurtz, 

Secretary. 


SIXTY-THIRD   CONVENTION. 

1810. 
Harrisburg. 


Transactions  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Synodical  and  Ministe- 

eiax  Meeting  which  was  held  June  17th,  18th,  19th, 

at  Harris i:n:<;. 

Sunday  morning  all  the  preachers  assembled  in  the  parsonage,  and 
went  in  procession  to  the  church. 

In  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church  the  following  pastors  preached  : 
Mr.  Heine  on  Saturday  evening,  on  Apoc.  2:10;  Sunday  morning, 
Dr.  Muhlenberg,  on  Jude,  vs.  20,  21 ;  in  the  afternoon,  Pastor  Schaefer, 
on  Rom.  8:  13;  in  the  evening,  Rev.  Lochman,  on  Acts  26  :  28.  In 
the  English  Presbyterian  Church  there  preached  :  Mr.  Mcndsen  on 
Saturday  evening,  on  Heb.  4:  9,  10,  11;  Sunday  morning,  Pastor 
Kurtz,  on  Matth.  22 :  41,  42 ;  in  the  afternoon,  Pastor  Plitt,  on  Apoc. 
3:1;  in  the  evening,  Rev.  Muhlenberg,  on  Jer.  34 :  16. 

On  Monday  morning  at  9  o'clock  the  preachers  and  delegates,  upon 
invitation,  assembled  in  the  church,  and  the  President,  Mr.  Muhlen- 
berg, opened  the  Synod  with  prayer,  whereupon  the  Synodical  business 

began. 

The  Preachers  Present  were: 

1.  Doctor  Helmuth,  from  Philadelphia. 


9. 

10. 
11. 
12. 
13. 


"  Muhlenberg,  from  Lancaster. 

Pastor  Kurtz,  from  Baltimore. 

"  Schaefer,  from  Germantown. 

"  Henckcl,  from  Newmarket. 

"  Lochman,  from  Lebanon. 

"  Sch mucker,  from  Yorktown. 

"  Rothrauff,  from  Greencastle. 

"  Endress,  from  Easton. 

"  Dill,  from  Plainfield. 

"  Plitt,  from  New  Holland. 

"  Herbst,  from  Fissel's  Church. 

u  Jasinsky,  from  Pikeland. 


409 


410  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

14.  Pastor  Geisenbeimer,  Jr.,  from  Whitehall. 

15.  "  Roeller,  from  Goshenhoppen. 

16.  "  Moeller,  from  Chambersburg. 

17.  "  Miiblenberg,  from  Reading. 

18.  "  Butler,  from  Fort  Cumberland. 

The  Candidates  Present  were  : 

1.  Mr.  Sanno,  from  Carlisle. 

2.  "  Knoske,  from  Manheim,  Berks  County. 

3.  "  Soriba. 

4.  "  Walter,  from  Middleburgh. 

5.  "  Petersen,  from  Harrisburg. 

6.  "  Cramer,  from  Maytown. 

7.  "  Haas,  from  Huntington. 

8.  "  Mensch,  from  Springfield. 

9.  "  Melsheimer,  from  Bender's  Church. 

10.  "  David  Schaefer,  from  Fredericktown. 

11.  "  Kessler,  from  Cumberland. 

12.  "  Heine,  from  Makunshy 

13.  "  Riemenschneider,  from  Nordkill. 

14.  "  Miller,  from  Goshenhoppen. 

15.  "  Hecht,  from  Pottstown 

16.  "  Betis,  from  Cohensy. 

17.  "  S.  Schaefer,  Hagerstown. 

18.  "  Ullerich,  from  Lyken's  Valley. 

19.  "  VanhofF,  from  Johnstown. 

20.  "  Wygandt. 

The  Catechists  Present  were: 

1.  Mr.  Heine,  from  Mifiiin  County. 

2.  "    Engel. 

3.  "    Osterlo. 

4.  "    L.  M.  Merkel. 

Applicants  for  the  ministry :  1.  Mr.  Tiedeman ;  2.  Mr.  Sackman ; 
3.  Mr.  Meendsen. 

Preachers  absent  were :  1.  Pastor  Schmidt,  excused  himself  in  writing ; 
2.  Pastor  Streit,  without  excuse ;  3.  Pastor  Lehman,  with  excuse ;  4. 
Pastor  Melsheimer,  with  excuse  ;  5.  Pastor  Carpenter,  with  excuse ; 
6.  Pastor  Geisenheimer,  Sr.,  with  excuse  ;  7.  Pastor  Jitger,  with  ver- 
bal excuse ;  8.  Pastor  Forster,  without  excuse  ;  9.  Pastor  Grobp,  with- 
out excuse ;  10.  Pastor  Kraeber,  with  written  excuse  ;  11.  Pastor  Spind- 


SIXTY-THIRD   CONVENTION,    1810.  411 

ler,  pleads  liis  age  ad  an  excuse  ;  12.  Pastor  Flohr,  with  written  excuse ; 
13.  Pastor  Steck,  with  written  excuse,  on  account  of  sickness  ;  14.  Pas- 
tor Stauch,  with  written  excuse  ;  15.  Pastor  Ilgen,  with  written  excuse. 
Candidates  absent  were:  1.  Mr.  Stock,  with  written  excuse  ;  2.  Mr. 
Lange,  with  written  excuse ;  3.  Mr.  Rehman,  without  excuse ;  4.  Mr. 
Staut,  with  written  excuse ;  5.  Mr.  Simon,  without  excuse  ;  C.  Catechist 
Ernst,  with  written  excuse;  7.  Catechist  Mayer,  with  excuse. 

Delegates  Present  with  Written  Certificates. 

1.  Mr.  Kunekel,  from  Philadelphia. 

2.  "  Moser,  from  Lancaster. 

3.  "  Kies,  from  Baltimore. 

4.  "  Heilig,  from  Germantown. 

5.  "  Ullerich,  from  Lebanon. 

6.  "  Hay,  from  Yorktown. 

7.  "  Mayer,  from  Greencastle. 

8.  "  Stecker,  from  Easton. 

9.  "  Mayerly,  from  Fissel's  Church. 

10.  "  Schantz,  from  Whitehill. 

11.  "  Berly,  from  Fort  Cumberland. 

12.  "  Shock,  from  Middleburg. 

13.  "  Jous,  from  Harrisburg. 

14.  "  Schell,  from  Maytown. 

15.  "  Gemer,  from  Huntington. 

1 6.  "  Walter,  from  Bender's  Church. 

17.  "  Leidig,  from  Cumberland. 

18.  "  Umbenhauer,  from  Nordkill. 

19.  "  Beisler,  from  Goschenhoppen. 

20.  "  Fillbert,  from  Pottsgrove. 

21.  "  Ney,  from  Hagerstown. 

22.  "  Enderlein,  from  Lykinsthal. 

New  Holland,  Goschenhoppen,  Springfield,   Friedrichstadt  excused 
themselves  in  writing,  stating  why  they  had  sent  no  delegates  this  year. 

Total  Present: 

Preachers 18") 

Candidates 20  [  12 

Catechists 4  J 

Applicants 3 

Delegates 22 

The  body  of  the  Synod  therefore  consisted  of  64  members. 


412 


DOCUMENTARY   HISTORY. 


Hereupon  the  annual  election  of  officers  was  held,  and  after  the  votes 
were  gathered,  it  was  found  that  the  following  were  elected  : 

1.  Dr.  Muhlenberg,  President. 

2.  Rev.  Schmucker,  Secretary. 

3.  Pastor  Lochruan,  Treasurer. 

As  the  Rev.  Schmidt,  the  former  Treasurer,  was  not  present,  and  in 
his  letter  to  the  Synod  requested  that  another  might  be  elected,  in  his 
place,  it  was 

Resolved,  That  Doctor  Helmuth,  Pastor  Lochman  and  Mr.  Kunckel 
be  a  committee  to  audit  the  accounts  of  the  Treasurer  and  hand  in  a 
report. 

The  delegates  then  handed  in  their  papers  and  the  Synod  appointed 
five  committees  to  examine  and  arrange  them  and  report  in  the  after- 
noon. 

The  papers  were  as  follows : 


,  1. 

From  Philadelphia. 

No. 

22. 

Concerning  Sanno. 

2. 

M 

Tulpehocken. 

« 

23. 

"           Cramer. 

3. 

It 

Fredericktown. 

a 

24. 

Haas. 

4. 

a 

Stock. 

a 

25. 

From  Staut. 

5. 

It 

Lange. 

tt 

26. 

u 

Bender's  church. 

6. 

a 

Steck. 

n 

27. 

tt 

Goschenhoppen. 

7. 

it 

Geisenheimer,  Sr. 

a 

28. 

Concerning  Hecht. 

8. 

a 

Stauch. 

it 

29. 

From  Hagerstown. 

9. 

tt 

Streit. 

n 

30. 

<< 

Lykens  Valley. 

10. 

it 

Flohr. 

tt 

31. 

« 

Mifflin,  Hein's. 

11. 

!< 

Germ  an  town. 

it 

32. 

tt 

Loudon,  Virginia. 

12. 

tt 

Rockingham. 

it 

33. 

a 

Engel. 

13. 

tt 

Manheim. 

C( 

34. 

tt 

Warwick. 

14. 

it 

Jaeger. 

it 

35. 

a 

Tiedeman. 

15. 

it 

Whitpain. 

tt 

36. 

<< 

Schwamm     congre- 

16. 

a 

Plainfield. 

gation. 

17. 

it 

Graber. 

a 

37. 

tt 

Meendsen. 

18. 

a 

Ilgen. 

tt 

38. 

(< 

Vanhoffi  Jonestown 

19. 

<« 

Heim. 

and  Shepp's  con- 

20. 

tt 

Kessler. 

gregation. 

21. 

(I 

Carlisle. 

tt 

39. 

it 

Osterlo. 

tt 

40. 

it 

Rebenack. 

The  morning  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 


SIXTY-THIRD  CONVENTION,  1S10. 


413 


Monday,  p.m. 

The  session  was  opened  with  prayer,  and  thereupon  the  Protocol  of 
last  year  was  read. 

The  following  reports  of  the  number  of  congregations,  baptized,  con- 
firmed, communicants,  deceased  and  schools,  were  handed  in  : 


1. 

Dr.  Helmuth    .... 

Pastor  Schmidt   .    .    . 

Congre- 
gations. 

Baptized. 

527 

Con- 
firmed. 

57 

Communi- 
cants. 

1000 

De- 
ceased. 

168 

Schools 

5 

2. 
3. 

Dr.  Muhlenberg .   .    . 
Pastor  Streit    .... 

o 

202 

80 

506 

32 

1 

4. 

« 

Lehman    .    .    . 

.   

— 

— 

— 

— 



5. 

it 

Melsheimer  .    . 

.   

— 

— 

— 

— 



6. 

it 

Kurtz  .... 

.       1 

134 

27 

264 

43 

2 

7. 

it 

Schaefer   .    .    . 

.    3 

91 

27 

305 

35 

2 

8. 
9. 

li 
tt 

Carpenter.   .    . 
Henkel     .    .    . 

.  — 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

10. 

(« 

Lochman .    .    . 

5 

118 

100 

439 

38 

5 

11. 

il 

Sch mucker  .    . 

6 

216 

240 

831 

31 

5 

12. 

it 

F.  Geisenheimer 

13. 
14. 

It 
It 

Jaeger  .... 
Piothrauff.    .    . 

7 

101 

61 

365 

9 

2 

15. 

ft 

Endres  .... 

16. 

It 

Dill 

4 

74 

36 

218 

23 

1 

17. 

(i 

Forster .... 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

18. 

It 

Plitt 

6 

176 

67 

635 

14 

4 

19. 

It 

Grobp  .... 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

20. 

tt 

Graeber    .    .    . 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

21. 

It 

Spiudler  .    .    .    . 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

22. 

tt 

Flohr 

— 

174 

63 

188 

17 

4 

23. 

it 

Steck 

— 

309 

52 

449 

27 

— 

24. 

tt 

Stanch  

— 

298 

14 

278 

— 

— 

25. 

it 

Ilerbst  

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

26. 

tt 

Jasinsky  .    .    .    . 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

27. 

tt 

( i.iscnheimer,  Jr. 

7 

190 

71 

998 

30 

9 

28. 

tt 

Roeller 

5 

97 

39 

411 

27 

3 

29. 

It 

Qgen 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

30. 
31. 

tt 

[Sic] 

Mocller    .    .    .    . 

3 

113 

61 

218 

12 

2 

32. 
33. 

tt 
tt 

Muhlenberg,  Jr  . 
Buttler 

2 

7 

130 

55 

110 

21 

484 

169 

l!7 
3 

1 

414 


DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 


Congre- 


Con-     Communi-       De- 


! 

jations. 

Baptized. 

firmed. 

cants. 

ceased. 

Schools 

34.  Pastor  Knosky    .    .    . 

5 

142 

91 

435 

50 

6 

35. 

"       Petersen   .    .    . 

6 

133 

49 

363 

26 

5 

36. 

"       Walter.   .    .    . 

8 

228 

145 

780 

28 

6 

37.  M 

r.  Stock 

38.     ' 

'     Lange 

— 

202 

124 

511 

51 

— 

39.     ' 

'     Sanno   

40.     ' 

(     Scriba 

.  — 

16 

— 

— 

— 

— 

41.     ' 

'     Cramer    .... 

6 

122 

21 

300 

13 

— 

42.     ' 

'     Haas 

6 

75 

29 

102 

9 

— 

43.     ' 

'     Mensch    .... 

4 

100 

30 

155 

20 

4 

44.     ' 

'     Rehman  .... 

8 

182 

79 

350 

16 

4 

45.     ' 

'     Melsheimer  .    .    . 

3 

35 

— 

130 

4 

— 

46.     ' 

'     D.  Schaefer .    .    . 

3 

209 

91 

455 

27 

2 

47.     < 

'     Kessler    .... 

3 

19 

— 

— 

6 

— 

48.     ' 

'     Heine 

4 

118 

70 

529 

17 

4 

49.     ' 

Simon 

50.     ' 

'     Puemenschneider.    . 

4 

108 

41 

160 

9 

4 

51.     ' 

'     Miller 

3 

130 

113 

522 

32 

4 

52.     ' 

'     Heckt 

3 

117 

90 

278 

26 

5 

53.     ' 

'     Betis 

1 

16 

— 

68 

8 

— 

54.     ' 

'     S.  Schaefer  .    .    .    . 

4 

59 

— 

169 

3 

2 

55.     ' 

Ullerich 

8 

287 

200 

960 

27 

5 

56.     ' 

Weigandt    .    .    .    . 

3 

57 

— 

— 

5 

5 

57.     ' 

'     Heine 

2 

120 

— 

— 

11 

2 

58.     ' 

Engel 

6 

204 

— 

— 

— 

— 

59.     ' 

'     Ernst 

60.     < 

'     Osterlo 

3 

13 

— 

— 

1 

1 

61.     < 

1     Vanhoff  .... 

4 

35 

— 

— 

12 

4 

62.     ' 

'     Merkel     .... 

3 

85 

— 

— 

6 

— 

63.     ' 

'     Tiedeman     .    .    . 

64.     ' 

'     Sackman .... 

65.     < 

'     Mundsen .... 

The  District  Conferences  of  Lancaster,  Baltimore  and  Virginia  gave 
some  reports  of  their  transactions.  In  the  other  districts  no  meetings 
were  held. 

It  was  moved  and  unanimously  approved  by  the  Synod  : 

1.  That  a  pastoral  letter  be  sent  by  this  Synod  to  all  our  congrega- 
tions each  year,  and  upon  a  subject  which  this  Synod  retains  the  right 
to  determine. 


SIXTY  THIRD  CONVENTION,   1810.  415 

2.  That  our  worthy  Senior,  Dr.  Ilelmuth,  prepare  and  have  printed 
this  pastoral  letter  for  this  year. 

3.  That  5000  copies  of  it  he  printed  at  the  expense  of  the  Synod. 
The  committees  appointed  handed  in  their  reports  in  writing. 

No.  2  was  taken  up  first.  This  Dumber  contains  a  request  of  the 
Tulpehocken  and  Womelsdorf  congregations,  that  Mr.  Ullrich  might 
not  he  appointed  their  preacher,  and  that, 

1.  A  new  election  for  a  pastor  be  held,  in  order  that  the  congre- 
gation bo  not  entirely  scattered  ;  with  the  assurance,  that  they  were 
willing  to  accept  any  other  pastor. 

2.  A  petition  from  the  Tulpehocken  congregation,  asking  for  Mr. 
Ullrich  as  its  pastor. 

3.  A  petition  from  the  Nordkill  congregation,  which  desires  Mr. 
Ullrich  as  its  pastor,  in  ca«e  he  should  come  to  Tulpehocken. 

On  this  point  it  was  moved  and  approved  :  The  Ministerium  hands 
the  above  papers  with  reference  to  Mr.  Ullrich  to  a  committee  of  five 
members,  who  shall  conscientiously  consider  them,  and  report  to  the 
Synod. 

No.  30.  Item,  That  the  papers  from  Lyken's  Valley,  be  taken  along 
with  those.  These  contain  a  very  urgent  request  of  Mr.  Ullrich's  entire 
congregation,  that  the  Synod  by  all  means  arrange  that  Mr.  Ullrich 
might  continue  his  ministry  among  them ;  otherwise  all  the  progress 
made  under  him  would  come  to  nothing. 

It  was  moved  and  approved,  that  Messrs.  Lochman,  Plitt,  Muhlen- 
berg, Jr.,  Hay  and  Philbert,  be  this  committee. 

No.  12.  With  reference  to  the  petition  of  the  five  congregations  in 
R  ickingham  County,  Virginia,  which  ask  for  Mr.  Riemenschneider  as 
their  preacher,  it  was  resolved,  that  Mr.  Riemenschneider  may  with  the 
consent  of  the  Synod  accept  the  said  congregations. 

No.  13.  Upon  the  request  of  the  congregation  in  Manheim,  to  be 
served  by  the  preacher  who  serves  Warwick,  in  case  Mr.  Riemen- 
schneider should  leave  them,  it  was  moved  and  approved,  that  the 
Synod  grant  Messrs.  Cramer  and  Bctis  permission  to  preach  sermons 
(Besuchspredigtcn)  in  the  congregation  at  Manheim,  and  that  the 
Synod  will  be  satisfied  with  the  decision  of  the  majority  in  that  congre- 
gation. 

No.  14.  With  reference  to  the  complaints  against  Rev.  Mr.  Jager  it 
was  resolved,  that  the  Synod  cannot  enter  upon  them,  because  Mr. 
Jager  is  not  present. 

No.  15.  With  reference  to  the  petition  of  the  congregations  Whit- 
pain,  Gwynedd  and  Hilltown,  Montgomery  County,  for  an  able  pastor, 
it  was  moved  and  approved,  that  the  delegates  look  for  one  among  the 


416  DOCUMENTARY  HISTOEY. 

preachers,  and  those  that  are  willing  to  accept  a  call  inform  the  Presi- 
dent. 

No.  16.  With  reference  to  the  petition  of  the  united  congregations  in 
Hamilton,  Smithfield,  Plainfield  and  Mount  Bethel  for  a  pastor,  for 
whose  support  they  will  make  full  provision,  it  was  moved  and  approved 
as  No.  15. 

No.  17.  With  reference  to  the  petition  of  Rev.  Mr.  Graber  for  better 
congregations,  it  was  moved  and  approved,  that  the  Secretary  make 
known  to  him  the  vacant  congregations,  Nos.  15  and  16. 

No.  20.  With  reference  to  the  letter  of  the  Lisbon  congregation,  in 
Cumberland  County,  in  which  they  ask  for  Mr.  Kessler  as  their  preacher, 
it  was  moved  and  approved,  that  their  petition  be  granted. 

No.  29.  With  reference  to  the  letter  of  the  congregations  united  with 
Hagerstown,  in  which  they  petition  that  the  Synod  approve  their 
almost  unanimous  election  of  Mr.  Solomon  Schaefer  as  their  preacher, 
it  was  moved  and  resolved  that  permission  be  granted  to  Mr.  Solomon 
Schaefer. 

No.  34.  With  reference  to  the  call  of  the  congregations  in  Warwick 
and  Schiiferstown,  to  have  Mr.  Betis  as  their  pastor,  it  was  moved  and 
approved,  that  their  request  be  granted. 

No.  36.  With  reference  to  the  petition  of  the  congregations  in 
Schwamm  and  Cocalico,  it  was  moved  and  approved,  that  Mr.  Betis  be 
allowed  to  accept  them. 

Thereupon  the  session  was  closed  with  pi'ayer.  This  evening  Pastor 
Endres  preached  in  the  Lutheran,  and  Pastor  Jasinsky  in  the  English 
church. 

Tuesday  morning,  at  6  o'clock,  the  members  of  the  Synod  again 
assembled  in  the  Lutheran  church,  and  because  the  President  stayed 
away  too  long,  Pastor  Kurtz  was  elected  President  pro  tern.,  and  Doctor 
Helmuth  opened  the  Synod  with  devout  prayer,  after  which  the  business 
was  continued. 

No.  2.  The  committee  appointed  yesterday,  to  which  the  papers 
referring  to  Mr.  Ullrich  were  handed,  reported  in  writing,  as  follows : 
The  committee,  after  careful  investigation,  recognizes : 

1.  That  Mr.  Ullrich  cannot  without  great  injury  be  taken  from  the 
congregations  in  Lykensthal,  who  are  unanimous  in  their  attachment 
to  him ;  and  that,  although  we  would  be  willing  to  let  the  majority  in 
Tulpehocken  have  Mr.  Ullrich,  yet  we  would  not  advise  our  friend  to 
go  to  contending  congregations. 

2.  That  the  United  Congregations  in  Tulpehocken  be  advised  to  hold 
an  election  as  soon  as  possible  in  each  congregation  for  another  preacher, 
who  was  not  voted  on  at  their  last  election,  and  who  is  a  member  of 


SIXTY-THIRD  CONVENTION,  1810.  417 

the  Ministerium,  the  election  to  be  held  by  ballot,  and  announced  at 
public  service  at  least  four  weeks  in  advance. 

3.  The  preacher  for  whom  the  majority  votes,  and  who  will  accept 
them,  shall  be  granted  them ;  and  the  Synod  expects  that  the  minority 
will  not  burden  it  with  further  propositions  in  this  matter. 

The  entire  report  of  the  committee  was  approved  by  the  Synod,  and 
in  reference  to  it,  it  was  moved  and  resolved : 

1.  That  copies  of  it  be  given  to  both  parties  in  Tulpehocken. 

2.  That  the  committee  be  permitted  to  destroy  the  papers  concerning 
Lykens  Valley  and  Tulpehocken. 

That  Pastor  Lochman  and  Pastor  Muhlenberg,  Jr.,  be  commissioned 
to  preach  in  the  congregations  united  with  Tulpehocken,  and  to  an- 
nounce the  election,  as  soon  as  they  are  requested  to  do  so  by  the 
congregations. 

Motion  :  That  it  be  left  to  the  assembled  preachers  this  time,  to  de- 
termine the  amount  of  appropriations  from  the  Synodical  Treasury  and 
to  appoint  the  traveling  preacher  for  the  coming  year.     Approved. 

Hereupon  the  time  and  place  of  the  next  Synod  were  determined, 
and  after  the  votes  were  gathered,  it  was  found  to  be  as  follows:  1. 
Time,  Trinity  Sunday.     2.  Place,  Philadelphia. 

The  contributions  to  the  Synodical  Treasury  were  handed  over : 

Summa $215.43* 

Item 6.00 


$221.43* 

The  President  hereupon  closed  the  Synodical  Meeting  with  song  and 
prayer,  and  the  delegates  were  dismissed. 


MINISTERIAL  MEETING. 


Tuesday,  at  10  a.m.,  the  President  opened  the  Ministerial  Meeting 
with  prayer,  and  the  business  was  begun. 

No.  37.  In  reference  to  the  call  given  to  Mr.  Meendsen  by  four 
congregations  in  Allen  Township,  Northampton  County,  it  was  moved 
and  approved  that  Mr.  Meendsen  be  permitted  to  accept  these,  and  also 
other  vacant  congregations  in  the  neighborhood,  if  he  passes  his  exami- 
nation. Pastor  Kurtz  and  Pastor  Lochman  were  appointed  his  ex- 
aminers. 

No.  38.  In  reference  to  the  letters  of  Mr.  Dreyer  and  Mr.  Geisen- 
27 


418  DOCUMENTARY   HISTORY. 

heiner  concerning  the  candidate  of  theology  recently  arrived  from  Ger- 
many, Mr.  M.  Domeyer,  and  his  own  letter  to  the  Ministerium,  it  was 
moved  and  approved,  that  Mr.  M.  Domeyer  be  regarded  and  treated 
by  us  like  all  who  have  newly  arrived  from  Germany. 

No.  39.  In  reference  to  the  call  for  Mr.  Friedrich  Osterlo  from  Han- 
over and  Newport  Township,  Luzerne  County,  it  was  moved  and  ap- 
proved that  the  request  of  these  congregations  be  granted,  if  Mr.  Osterlo 
passes  his  examination. 

No.  8.  In  reference  to  the  letter  of  Rev.  Mr.  Stauch,  in  which  he  rec- 
ommends oue  Mr.  Anton  Weier  to  the  Ministerium  as  a  pastor,  it  was 
moved  and  approved  that  the  letter  be  answered  in  the  name  of  the 
Ministerium  in  a  fraternal  (liebe voile)  manner,  approving  his  conduct 
in  reference  to  Mr.  "Weier,  and  that  Rev.  Mr.  Lochman  w^rite  the 
answer. 

No.  25.  In  reference  to  the  petition  of  Mr.  Staut,  to  recommend  him 
to  congregations  in  Pennsylvania  or  Maryland,  it  was  moved  and  ap- 
proved that  the  Ministerium  could  do  nothing  for  him. 

No.  29.  Concerning  Hagerstown  and  Mr.  Solomon  Schaefer,  the  ad- 
ditional resolution  was  passed  that  Mr.  Schaefer  be  allowed  to  stay  in 
Hagerstown.     Approved. 

No.  15.  The  Ministerium  added  to  the  Synodical  resolution  this 
proposition  :  That  the  congregation  left  by  Mr.  Solomon  Schaefer  be 
advised  to  choose  a  man  from  among  the  pastors  of  the  Ministerium, 
and  whoever  goes  there  inform  the  President. 

Motion  :  That  Mr.  Heims  be  examined  for  the  position  of  candidate, 
and  if  found  capable,  be  admitted  to  the  same.     Approved. 

Motion  :  That  every  one  who  desires  to  become  catechist,  candidate, 
or  ordained  preacher  hand  to  the  Ministerium  a  written  account  of  his 
life  for  examination,  and  that  this  be  preserved  in  the  Archives.  Ap- 
proved. 

Motion  :  That  Mr.  "Weigandt,  inasmuch  as  his  congregations  ask 
that  he  be  granted  a  full  license,  be  examined  for  this  purpose.  Ap- 
proved. 

No.  32.  In  reference  to  the  petition  of  the  two  congregations  in  Lou- 
don County,  Virginia,  that  Mr.  Joh.  Martin  Sackman  be  received  and 
granted  a  license,  it  was  moved  and  approved :  That  if  Mr.  Sackman 
passes  the  examination  this  petition  be  granted. 

No.  33.  In  reference  to  the  petition  of  Blumsburg  and  the  four  con- 
gregations united  with  it,  that  a  full  license  be  granted  to  Mr.  Friedrich 
Engel,  it  was  moved  and  approved  :  That  he  be  examined  for  this  pur- 
pose, and  if  he  pass  the  examination  the  petition  of  the  above  congre- 
gations be  granted. 


SIXTY-THIRD  CONVENTION,  1810.  419 

No.  35.  In  reference  to  the  call  of  Vogt's  congregation  in  Rye  Town- 
ship, Cumberland,  for  Mr.  Ernst  Heiurich  Tiedeman,  it  was  moved  and 
approved  : 

1.  That  if  Mr.  Tiedeman  passes  the  examination,  he  may  accept  the 
congregation. 

2.  That  Pastor  Muhlenberg  and  Rev.  Mr.  Moller  examine  him. 
No.  38    In   reference  to  the  petition  of  Schupp's  congregation  for 

Mr.  Vanhoff,  it  was  moved  and  approved  :  That  answer  be  made  them 
it  would  be  more  advisable  for  them  to  unite  with  Harrisburg. 

No.  Sti.  ]n  reference  to  the  petition  of  the  congregation  in  Jonestown 
to  retain  Mr.  Vanhorf,  it  was  moved  and  resolved  :  That  if  Mr.  Van- 
hoff  passes  his  examination  their  petition  will  be  granted. 

No.  — .  In  reference  to  the  petition  of  Mr.  Job.  Wilhelm  Mayer, 
from  Fincastle,  that  his  license  be  renewed,  it  was  moved  and  approved  : 
That  the  Ministerium  has  doubts  about  renewing  his  license. 

No.  5.  In  reference  to  the  petition  of  Candidate  Lange  to  renew  his 
license,  it  was  moved  and  approved  :  That  his  request  be  postponed 
until  the  next  Synod,  and  that  the  President  inform  him  of  the  com- 
plaints here  made  against  him,  concerning  his  immoral  life,  against 
which  he  shall  first  defend  himself.     Approved. 

Motion  :  In  reference  to  the  petition  of  the  people  in  Tennessee  con- 
cerning Mr.  L.  M.  Merckel,  it  was  moved  and  approved,  that  if  Mr. 
L.  M.  Merckel  pass  the  examination  full  license  shall  be  granted  him. 

The  following  gentlemen  were  appointed  examiners  : 

1.  Pastor  Schafer  and  Rev.  Plitt,  to  examine  Messrs.  Engel,  Sack- 
man  and  Heims.  2.  Pastor  Endres  and  Rev.  Rothrauf  take  Messrs. 
Merckel  and  Osterlo.  3.  Pastor  Kurtz  and  Rev.  Lochman,  Vanhoff 
and  Meendsen.  4.  Pastor  Muhlenberg  and  Rev.  Moller,  Tiedeman 
and  Weigandt. 

The  following  candidates  handed  in  their  Journals  and  Sermons : 

Journals.  Sermons. 

D.  Schafer    ...  1 

Heine 1 

Riemenschneider  .  1 

Heeht 1 

Betis 1 

Sol.  Schafer  ...  1 
Ullrich 1 

The  catechists  gave  theirs  to  the  examiners,  and  the  President  dis- 
tributed the  papers  of  the  candidates  to  the  preachers  for  examination, 
t  i  n  port  in  the  afternoon. 

Tiie  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 


Journals. 

Sermons. 

1. 

Banno .    .   . 

.     .  — 

1 

8. 

2. 

Knoske    .    . 

.     .      1 

1 

9. 

:;. 

Walter     .    . 

.     .  — 

1 

10. 

4. 

Kramer  .    . 

.     .  — 

1 

11. 

5. 

Haas    .    .    . 

.     .      1 

1 

12. 

6. 

Mensch   .    , 

.     .      1 

1 

13. 

7. 

Melzheimer. 

.     .      1 

1 

14. 

420  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Tuesday  Afternoon,  4  o'clock. 

The  session  was  opened  with  prayer,  after  which  the  business  was 
again  begun. 

The  examiners  reported : 

P.  Schiifer  and  Plitt  report :  Messrs.  Sackman  and  Heims  possess  a 
fair  and  good  knowledge  of  saving  truth  ;  Mr.  Engel  is  a  man  of  good 
promise.     They  propose  the  three  as  candidates. 

Doctor  Muhlenberg  reports :  The  sermons  of  Messrs.  Hecht,  Betis, 
Cramer,  Ullrich,  are  good,  and  that  of  Mr.  Jacob  Miller  he  found  far 
above  his  expectation. 

Doctor  Helmuth  passes  favorable  judgment  on  those  of  Messrs.  Wal- 
ter, Mensch,  Riemen  Schneider  and  Scriba. 

Pastors  Muhlenberg  and  Moller :  Mr.  Weigant  has  improved  much  ; 
they  propose  him  as  candidate ;  Mr.  Tiedeman,  however,  they  found 
weak  in  knowledge ;  propose  him  as  catechist. 

Pastors  Endress  and  Rothrauf  judge  favorably  of  Merckel  and  Osterlo, 
and  propose  both  as  candidates. 

Pastor  Geisenheimer  reports  that  Mr.  Sol.  Schafer's  journal  and  ser- 
mon are  good.     David  Schafer's  journal  very  good. 

Pastors  Jasinsky  and  Roller:  Messrs.  Melzheimer,  Jr.,  and  David 
Schafer's  good,  and  Haas's  shows  much  diligence. 

Pastors  Dill  and  Herbst :  Mr.  Knoske's  sermon  good,  scriptural  and 
edifying. 

Pastors  Kurtz  and  Lcchman  found  Messrs.  Meendsen  and  Vanhoff 
fairly  grounded  in  Greek,  well  grounded  in  Dogmatics. 

Pastor  Endress  made  report  concerning  Mr.  Ernst,  and  petitions  for 
a  catechist's  license  for  him. 

1.  The  licenses  of  the  following  men  were  renewed  :  Cramer,  Haas, 
Mensch,  Rehman,  Melsheimer,  D.  Schaefer,  Kessler,  Heine,  Simon, 
Riemenschneider,  Miller,  Hecht,  Batis  [Baetis],  Sol  Schafer,  Ullrich, — 
Scriba,  if  he  gets  congregations. 

2.  The  following  received  licentia  :  Mr.  Wiegandt,  Merckel,  Vanhoff, 
Engel,  Osterlo,  Sackman,  Heims  and  Meendsen. 

3.  The  following  were  made  catechists :  Mr.  Willh.  Ernst  and  Tiede- 
man. 

4.  For  ordination  the  following  were  proposed  and  admitted :  Messrs. 
Joh.  Knoske,  Conrad  Walter,  Joh.  Dietrich  Petersen,  and  it  was  re- 
solved that  they  be  ordained  this  evening. 

i 

1  Erasure  of  a  disciplinary  action  of  the  Ministerium  by  which  a  pastor  was  to 
receive  a  private  censure  from  the  President. 


SIXTY-THIRD  CONVENTION,  1810.  421 

Concerning  Mr.  Rebenack,  it  was  moved  and  approved,  That  the 
Ministerium  still  hesitates  to  receive  him  publicly  as  a  member,  but 
rejoices  in  his  good  testimonials  from  Scheppardtown  and  Martins- 
burg. 

Last  year's  traveling  preacher,  Mr.  Henckle,  handed  in  an  extract 
from  his  journal,  from  which  it  appears  that  $40  from  the  Synodical 
Treasury  is  still  due  him,  which  was  granted  him. 

Motion  :  That  Rev.  Mr.  Henckle  be  the  traveling  preacher  appointed 
by  this  Synod  until  the  next  meeting.     Approved. 

Motion :  That  $10  from  the  Synodical  Treasury  be  given  each 
preacher's  widow  this  year,  and  that  each  of  them  get  as  much  from 
the  legacy  from  Europe  as  one  of  the  preachers  present,  that  is,  $14.50. 
Approved. 

Motion:  That  $50.00  be  given  to  Messrs.  Meendsen  and  Tiedeman 
each,  as  a  loan  to  aid  them  in  their  studies.     Approved. 

The  President  closed  the  Ministerial  Meeting  with  prayer,  and  in 
the  evening  Messrs.  1.  John  Knoske,  2.  Conrad  Walter,  3.  Joh.  Dietrich 
Petersen  were,  in  a  most  solemn  and  impressive  manner,  consecrated 
to  the  ministry. 

Attested  by  J.  George  Schmucker, 

Secretary. 


SIXTY-FOURTH  CONVENTION. 

1811. 


TRANSACTIONS    OF    THE    EVANGELICAL    LUTHERAN 
SYNODICAL  MEETING, 

Held  in  Philadelphia,  on  June  9th,  and  the  Following  Days,  1811. 

On  Sunday  morning  all  the  preachers  assembled  in  the  home  of  Pas- 
tor Schmidt,  and  from  there  went  in  procession  to  Zion's  and 
St.  Michael's  churches. 

The  following  preached  in  Zion's  :  A.M.,  Dr.  Muhlenberg,  on  I  Thess. 
4:1;  p.m.,  Rev.  Schmucker,  on  Luke  15  :  2.  In  the  evening,  Pastor 
Lochman,  on  Rom.  10:  1.  Pastor  Plitt  preached  in  St.  Michael's  in 
the  morning  on  Acts  18  :  5,  6. 

The  spirit  of  grace  and  prayer  was  in  our  midst,  and  made  the  eternal 
truths  of  the  Gospel  important  to  the  pastors  themselves ;  and  the  large 
assemblies  of  devout  hearers  justify  the  hope  that  lasting  benefits  were 
received. 

On  Monday  morning  at  9  o'clock,  all  the  preachers  and  delegates 
assembled  in  Zion's  Church,  and  the  President  opened  the  Synodical 
Meeting  with  an  earnest  prayer  for  the  assistance  of  the  good  Spirit  in 
the  business  now  to  be  taken  up. 

The  Preachers  Present  were: 


1. 

Dr.  Helmuth  (Th.  D.  Senior  Ministerii),  Philadelphia 

2. 

Pastor  Schmidt,  Idem. 

3. 

Doctor  Muhlenberg,  Lancaster. 

4. 

Pastor  Kurtz,  Baltimore. 

5. 

"       Schiifer,  Germantown. 

6. 

"       Dill  (Diehl),  Plainfield. 

7. 

"       Jager,  Allenstown. 

8. 

"       Lochman,  Lebanon. 

9. 

"       Schmucker,  York. 

10. 

"       Herbst,  Manchester. 

11. 

"       Geisenheiner,  Whitehall. 

422 


SIXTY-FOUUTII   CONVENTION,  1811.  423 


12. 

Pastor  Plitt,  New  Holland. 

13. 

<i 

Roller,  Goshenhoppen. 

14. 

(i 

Forster,  New  Lancaster. 

15. 

« 

Endress,  Easton. 

1G. 

<i 

Jasinsky,  Pikeland. 

17. 

<i 

Buttler,  Fort  Cumberland. 

18. 

<i 

Muhlenberg,  Reading. 

19. 

ii 

1      Knosky,  Kutztown. 

20. 

<i 

Walter,  Mittelberg. 

21. 

<{ 

Petersen,  Harrisburg. 
Candidates  Present. 

22. 

Mr 

.  Sanno,  Carlisle. 

23. 

K 

Scriba,  Traveling  Preacher. 

24. 

« 

Mensch,  Springfield. 

25. 

(( 

D.  Scbiifer,  Frederick. 

26. 

u 

Heine,  Macunshy. 

27. 

« 

S.  Scbiifer,  Hagerstown. 

28. 

M 

Hecbt,  Pottsgrove. 

29. 

<< 

Miller,  Goshenhoppen. 

30. 

(( 

Heim, 

31. 

K 

Ullrich,  Lyken's  Valley. 

32. 

<« 

Pxitis,  Schiiferstown. 

33. 

(« 

Weygand. 

34. 

(( 

Ostcrlo. 

35. 

<< 

Vanhof,  Jonestown. 

36. 

« 

Merkel,  ["Genesee,  N.  Y." — in  pencil.] 

37. 

<( 

Sackman,  Loudon. 

38. 

(« 

Meendsen. 

39. 

« 

Ernst. 

40. 

« 

Colsen,  Plainfield. 

41. 

U 

Engel,  Catechist. 

Preachers  Absent. 

1.  Pastor  Ptreit,  with  excuse  ;  2.  Pastor  Melzheimer,  with  excuse  ;  3. 
Pastor  Carpenter;  4.  Pastor  Henckle  (Henkel),  with  excuse;  5.  Pastor 
Geisenheiuer ;  •'>.  Pastor  Rotrauf  (Rothrauf ),  with  excuse;  7.  Pastor 
Grobb,  with  excuse  ;  8.  Pa-tor  Graeber ;  9.  Pastor  Spindler;  10.  Pastor 
Flohr,  with  excuse;  11.  Pastor  Stock,  with  excuse;  12.  Pastor  Stanch, 
witli  excuse;  13.  Pastor  Ilgen,  with  excuse;  14.  Pastor  Moller,  with 
excuse. 


424 


DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 


Candidates  Absent. 


15.  Mr.  Stock. 


16. 
17. 

18. 
19. 
20. 


Lange. 

Sanno. 

Cramer. 

Rehman. 

Haas. 


21.  Mr.  Melzheimer. 


22. 

a 

Kessler. 

23. 

a 

Eiemenschneider. 
with  excuse. 

24. 

« 

Simon. 

25. 

<< 

Tiedeman, 

Catechist 

The  Delegates  Present  were: 

1.  Mr.  Conrad  Haas  and  Fried.  Hockle,  Philadelphia. 

2.  "  Schmick,  Baltimore. 

3.  "  Peter  Perring,  German  town. 

4.  "  A.  Ritscker,  Lebanon. 

5.  "  P.  Kissinger,  York. 

6.  "  D.  Rauh,  Easton. 

7.  "  G.  Sell,  Lohill. 

8.  "  I.  Ringwald,  New  Holland. 

9.  "  A.  Menscb,  Hanover  Congregation. 

10.  "  D.  Schneider,  Fissel's  Church. 

11.  «  G.  Diery,  Pikeland. 

12.  "  G.  Rau,  Whitehall. 

13.  "  A.  Gressman,  Indianfield. 

14.  "  F.  Schmidt  and  P.  Stichter,  Reading. 

15.  "  H.  Schwartz,  Middleburg. 

16.  "  N.  Kreutzer,  Carlisle. 

17.  "  F.  Drager,  Nockamixon. 

18.  "  P.  Wind,  Macunshy. 

19.  "  J.  Brendlinger,  New  Hanover. 

20.  "  J.  Schweng,  Pottsgrove. 

21.  «  S.  Rex,  Warwick. 

22.  "  G.  Brumbach,  Hagerstown. 

23.  "  P.  Lohr,  Lykensthal. 

24.  "  D.  Hecker,  Louisburg. 

25.  "  C  Geiger,  Fischen  Creek. 

26.  "  N.  Hauer,  Allen  Township. 

The  body  of  the  Synod  therefore  consisted  of  41  preachers  and  27 
delegates,  i.  e.,  of  68  members. 

The  election  of  officers  was  taken  up  and  the  President  informed  the 
Synod  that,  as  he  has  now  served  three  years,  he  cannot,  according  to 


SIXTY-FOURTH   CONVENTION,   1S11.  425 

the  Ministerial  [Constitution],  be  re-elected.  After  the  votes  were  gath- 
ered, it  was  found  the  following  were  elected  for  one  year  : ' 

1.  Pastor  Schmidt,  President. 

2.  Rev.  Sch mucker,  Secretary. 

3.  Pastor  Lochman,  Treasurer. 

The  President  took  the  chair  and  the  communications  were  handed 
in  and  numbered. 


NT0.      1. 

From  Baltimore. 

No 

18. 

From  Joh.  Guthman. 

'<      2. 

<< 

Hinckle. 

<( 

19. 

M 

Sunbury. 

"      3. 

M 

Forster. 

« 

20. 

<< 

Stock. 

"      4. 

(1 

Flohr. 

« 

21. 

« 

Schmucker. 

"      5. 

CI 

Melzheimer. 

It 

22. 

U 

C.  Zen  tier. 

"      6. 

u 

Steeck. 

tt 

23. 

it 

Whitpaiu. 

"      7. 

11 

Ilgen. 

a 

24. 

(< 

Dill   and    Geisen 

"      8. 

« 

Stauch. 

h[einer.l 

"      9. 

it 

Carlisle. 

tt 

25. 

From  Rebenack. 

«    10. 

CI 

Kramer's  affair. 

it 

26. 

a 

Grafort. 

"    11. 

Concerning  Biitis. 

« 

27. 

tt 

Salisbury. 

"    12. 

Letter   from   Uhllrich's 

u 

28. 

a 

Northampton. 

congregation. 

tt 

29. 

a 

Mifflin. 

"    13. 

Concerning  Engel. 

« 

30. 

n 

Tiedeman. 

"    14. 

From  Osterlo. 

tt 

31. 

a 

Menig. 

"    15. 

«< 

Tulpehocken. 

<( 

32. 

h 

Colson. 

"    16. 

« 

Ohio. 

(t 

33 

a 

Leist. 

"    17. 

<< 

Scriba. 

Thereupon  the  Synod  appointed  four  committees  to  examine  these 
communications  and  make  written  report  in  the  afternoon. 

First  committee  :  Messrs.  Doctor  Muhlenberg,  Kurtz,  Schiifer,  Loch- 
man, Haas  and  Hockle.     Nos.  1-7. 

Second  committee :  Messrs.  Endress,  Jiiger,  Dill,  Plitt,  Schmick  and 
Perring.     Nos.  8-14. 

Third  committee  :  Messrs.  Muhlenberg,  Jr.,  Geisenheiner,  Jasinsky, 
Herbst,  Forster,  Ritscher  and  Rauh.     Nos.  15-22. 

Fourth  committee  :  Messrs.  Roller,  Buttler,  Knosky,  Walter,  Peter- 
sen, Jacob  Ringwald,  Friedrich  Schmidt.     Nos.  22-33. 

The  Protocol  of  last  year  was  read,  and  then  the  morning  session  was 
closed  with  prayer. 

1  ([The  whole  morning's  transactions  are  summarized  :]  As  soon  as  the  Presi- 
dent had  taken  his  chair,  all  communications  directed  to  the  Synod  were  handed 
in.  Finally  the  Protocol  of  last  year  was  read,  and  then  the  morning  session  was 
closed  with  prayer). 


426  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Monday,  3  p.m. 

The  session  was  opened  with  prayer.  The  reports  of  the  committees 
were  handed  in  and  read,  and  it  was  resolved  that  the  papers  of  the 
first  committee  be  immediately  taken  up 

No.  1.  Concerning  the  friendly  invitation  of  the  Evangelical  Luth- 
eran congregation  in  Baltimore,  that  the  Synod  hold  its  meeting  with 
it  next  year,  it  was  postponed  to  the  time  for  the  selection  of  place  and 
then  recalled. 

No.  2.  Concerning  the  two  letters  from  Rev.  Mr.  Hinkel,  in  which 
he  reports  to  the  Synod  his  official  acts  as  traveling  preacher  ;  that  he 
traveled  sixty  days  and  received  only  $26.50  ;  it  was  resolved  that 
$40.00  more  be  paid  him  from  the  Synodical  Treasury. 

No.  9.  Petition  from  Carlisle,  asking  to  have  the  Synod  next  year ; 
it  was  postponed  until  the  election. 

No.  10.  Concerning  the  communication  of  Mr.  Kramer  to  the  Synod, 
in  which  he  offers  to  become  traveling  preacher  for  two  months  and  to 
seek  congregations  for  himself,  and  asks  for  two  months'  salary  as  trav- 
eling preacher  for  a  journey  of  fifty-three  days  already  made  for  this 
purpose,  it  was  resolved  that  the  Synod  can  in  no  wise  grant  his  re- 
quest. 

No.  10.  Concerning  the  petition  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  con- 
gregations in  Elizabeth  and  Maytown  for  a  Christian  and  well-educated 
man  as  their  pastor,  it  was  resolved  that  if  there  is  any  one  present  who 
is  willing  to  go  there,  he  shall  give  notice  to  the  President. 

No.  11.  Concerning  the  petition  of  the  congregation  in  Manheim  to 
be  more  frequently  served  by  Mr.  Biitis  :  Resolved,  That  the  congre- 
gations and  Mr.  Biitis  must  themselves  come  to  some  agreement  on  the 
matter. 

No.  12.  Concerning  the  general  petition  of  the  united  congregations 
in  Lykensthal  to  retain  Mr.  Uhllrich,  it  was  resolved  that  it  be  post- 
poned until  the  decision  of  the  Tulpehocken  affairs. 

No.  15.  For  the  decision  of  the  difficulties  in  Tulpehocken  and  the 
congregations  united  with  it,  concerning  Mr.  Uhllrich,  where  many 
hundreds  desire  him  as  their  pastor ;  but  a  respectable  minority  also 
makes  complaint  against  him,  because  of  unfulfilled  promises  of  mar- 
riage, it  was  resolved  :  1.  That  a  Special  Committee  be  appointed  to 
examine  the  papers,  to  hear  the  witnesses  and  delegates  and  to  report 
its  opinion  to  the  Synod.  2.  That  this  committee  consist  of  three  or- 
dained preachers  and  two  delegates.  3.  That  Messrs.  Kurtz,  Endress, 
Roller,  Heckle  and  Friedrich  Schmidt  be  this  committee. 

And  this  committee  proposed  as  follows  in  the  matter  :     1.  That  the 


SIXTY-FOURTH  CONVENTION,  1811.  427 

said  congregations  be  advised  to  hold  a  general  election  in  each  con- 
gregation on  the  last  Sunday  of  this  month  of  June,  for  any  preacher  in 
the  Ministerium,  with  the  understanding  that  the  minority  yield  to  the 
majority.  2.  Should  one  or  the  other  of  the  congregations  in  this  union, 
however,  not  be  satisfied  with  the  choice  of  the  others,  such  congrega- 
tion shall  be  free  to  separate  from  the  union  and  unite  with  neighbor- 
in  Lr  congregations. 

This  report  was  accepted  and  that  of  last  year  was  recalled,  because 
it  had  been  found  that  it  cannot  well  be  carried  out. 

No.  18.  Concerning  the  communication  of  Mr.  Johann  Guthmann, 
in  which  he  expresses  the  desire  that  arrangements  might  be  made  to 
publish  an  engraved  picture  of  Dr.  Luther,  it  was  resolved  that  Messrs. 
Dr.  Helmuth,  Plitt  and  Lochman  be  a  committee  to  consider  the  mat- 
ter and  report  upon  it. 

And  this  committee  moved  that  the  individual  members  of  the  Syn- 
odical  Meeting  promise  that  if  any  one  is  willing  to  start  a  subscription 
for  an  engraved  picture  of  Dr.  Luther,  they  will  aid  it  as  much  as 
possible.     Carried. 

No.  21.  Upon  motion  that  an  Evangelical  Magazine  be  printed  under 
the  supervision  of  the  Synod,  after  the  motion  was  read  Messrs.  Pastors 
Lochman  and  Schmucker  were  appointed  a  committee  to  consider  it 
carefully  and  to  report  on  its  practicability. 

No.  22.  Concerning  Mr.  Zentler's  bill  for  printing  the  5000  copies  of 
last  year's  Pastoral  Letter  to  all  congregations,  as  determined  by  the 
Synod,  the  bill  amounting  to  $93.50,  it  was  resolved  that  it  be  accej)ted. 
The  officers  drew  up  the  order  for  its  payment,  and  had  it  handed  to 
Mr.  Conrad  Zentler. 

No.  23.  Concerning  the  petition  of  the  congregations  in  Whitpain, 
Nbrthwalsch  and  Ililltown  for  a  preacher,  whom  they  promise  all  sup- 
port and  love,  the  members  who  might  desire  to  go  there  were  advised 
to  confer  with  the  President  and  the  delegates. 

.  27  and  29.  Petitions  from  Salisbury  and  Mifflin  County,  that 
collections  be  taken  up  for  their  church  building.  Resolved,  that  Synod 
can  have  nothing  to  do  with  collecting. 

No.  27.  Concerning  the  inquiry  of  Matheus  Flach,  in  Crawford 
County,  whether  a  certain  Mr.  Mackenhaupt,  who  there  pretends  to  be 
an  Evangelical  Lutheran  preacher,  is  a  member  of  the  Ministerium,  it 
was  resolved  that  Dr.  Muhlenberg  answer  :  (No). 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer.  This  evening  Pastor  Muhlen- 
berg, Jr.,  preached  on  Luke  19  :  42. 


428  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Tuesday,  a.m. 

The  business  was  begun  with  prayer. 

No.  21.  The  motion  for  the  publication  of  an  Evangelical  Magazine 
was  first  taken  up.  The  committee  appointed  yesterday  made  the  fol- 
lowing report :  It  regards  the  plan  in  this  motion,  several  changes  ex- 
cepted, very  useful,  easily  executed  and  of  benefit  to  the  Synodical 
Treasury,  and  has,  in  reliance  upon  the  approval  of  the  Synod,  already 
had  a  prospectus  printed,  which  each  member  can  take  home  with  him. 

Concerning  the  report  of  the  committee,  it  was  unanimously  resolved, 
1.  That  the  motion  be  adopted,  and  that  the  Synod  undertake  it  as  soon 
as  500  subscribers  are  found. 

2.  That  this  work  be  published  in  Philadelphia,  under  the  direction 
of  Pastor  Schmidt  and  Dr.  Helmuth,  and  that  they  be  the  committee 
to  make  the  necessary  selections  for  its  contents. 

3.  That  the  work  appear  under  the  title :  "  Evangelisches  Magazin, 
herausgegeben  unter  der  Aufsicht  der  Ev.  Luth.  Synode  in  Pennsyl- 
vanien  und  den  benachbarten  Staaten  "  [Evangelical  Magazine,  pub- 
lished under  the  Supervision  of  the  Ev.  Luth.  Synod  in  Pennsylvania 
and  Adjacent  States]. 

4.  That  each  member  of  the  Ministerium  hereby  promise  to  send 
original  articles  to  the  committee  quarterly,  postpaid. 

The  collections  for  the  Synodical  Treasury  were  paid  in,  and  the  use 
to  be  made  of  them  was  determined. 

The  amount  paid  in  this  year  was  in  total,  $359. 65-J  ;  hereupon  the 
Treasurer  read  his  last  year's  account. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  I.  Nicol.  Hemping  be  given  $75  as  a  loan  to 
enable  him  to  study. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Paul  Hinkel  be  the  traveling  preacher  this  year, 
for  three  months  in  the  States  of  Ohio,  Kentucky,  Virginia  and  Ten- 
nessee ;  and  that  Dr.  Helmuth  communicate  to  him  the  resolution  of 
Synod,  and  at  the  same  time  advise  him  to  have  no  dealings  with  camp- 
meetings,  if  he  should  find  such  departures  from  our  Evangelical  ways. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Scriba  be  appointed  traveling  preacher  for  three 
months,  under  the  same  conditions,  in  the  western  and  northwestern, 
parts  of  the  State  of  Pennsylvania,  and  that  the  Treasurer  pay  him 
$30.00  in  advance,  as  soon  as  he  starts  on  his  journey ;  and  that  he  be 
permitted  to  accept  congregations  in  those  districts. 

Resolved,  Concerning  No.  20,  a  petition  from  Mr.  Stock  to  the  Synod, 
for  assistance  in  his  great  poverty,  that  $20  be  sent  him  from  the 
Synodical  Treasury. 

Thereupon  $15  were  granted  each  of  the  poor  preachers'  widows, 


SIXTY-FOURTH  CONVENTION,  1811. 


429 


Jung,  Kurtz,  Krug,  Ludgen,  Weinland  and  Fogt,  and  the  session  was 
closed  with  prayer. 

Tuesday,  p.m. 

The  session  was  opened  with  prayer,  and  the  above-mentioned  report 
of  the  committee  concerning  the  question  at  issue  in  Tulpehocken  was 
read  and  accepted. 

The  District  Conferences  handed  in  their  reports.     The  Philadelphia 
District  had  a  pleasant  meeting;  in  the  others  no  conferences  were  held. 
The  Pastoral  Letter  was  now  distributed,  and  each  preacher  was 
allowed  seventy  copies. 

The  following  reports  of  the  number  of  congregations,  baptized,  con- 
firmed, communicants  and  deceased  were  handed  in  : 

Com- 
Congrega-  Bap-     Con-        muni-       De- 

tions.     tlzed.  firmed,     cants,     ceased.  Schools. 

L  Doctor  Helmuth  |  ph.lada  _    x  m  ^  ^  m  Q 

2.  raptor  bchmidt.  J 

3.  Doctor  Muhlenberg,  Lancaster  1  171  64  460  26  1 

4.  Pastor  Streit,  Winchester  .    .  —  —  —  —  —  — 

5.  "  Meltzheimer,  Hanover  —  87  14  345  27  2 

6.  "  Henckel,  New  Market  —  —  —  —  —  — 

7.  "  Kurtz 1  142  —  233  OQ  1 

8.  "  Schafer 3  130  27  374  23  1 

9.  "  Lochman 5  133  63  490  26  4 

10.  "      Schmucker 6  229  107  574  34  6 

11.  "       Carpenter —  —  —  —  —  — 

12.  "       Dill  [Diehl] 2  43  —  74  4  1 

13.  "       Jager 4  115  79  435  25  4 

14.  "       Endress 4  195  —  550  41  9 

15.  "       Stauch —  228  41  216  —  7 

16.  "      Rothrauf —  157  34  316  16  3 

17.  "      Plitt 6  164  64  633  20  4 

18.  "      Ilerbst 6  228  109  418  27  4 

19.  "      Steele —  275  122  376  32  7 

20.  "  Geisenheimer  [hainer]    6  106  62  783  22  7 

21.  "       Roller 5  104  79  414  19  3 

22.  "      Foreter 8  807  104  875  14  4 

23.  "      Jasinsky 2  48  30  185  15  1 

24.  "      Flohr —  174  63  203  21  4 

25.  "       Puttier 8  18  —  83  —  — 

26.  "  Muhlenberg,  Jr.  .    .    .    4  134  73  420  33  1 

27.  "      Knosky 7  195  83  710  23  6 

28.  "       Petersen 5  121  15  351  17  3 


430 


DOCUMENTARY   HISTORY. 


Congrega-  Bap- 

tions.  tized. 

29.  Pastor  Walter 8  218 

30.  Mr.  Sanno 4  197 

31.  "     Kramer —  66 

32.  "     Mensch 4  97 

33.  "     D.  Schiifer 3  185 

34.  "     Heine 4  105 

35.  "    S.  Schafer 5  161 

36.  "     Hecht 3  88 

37.  "     Miller 3  140 

38.  "     Heim 4  134 

39.  "     Batis 5  102 

40.  "     Ullrich 10  244 

41.  "     Weigand 4  135 

42.  "     Osterlo 4  65 

4i.     "     Engel 6  133 

44.  "     Vanhoff 4  85 

45.  "     Merckel 4  61 

46.  "     Sackman 2  76 

47.  "     Meendson  [Meendsen]  .4  110 

48.  "     Ernst 1  6 

49.  "     Colson 4  117 

50.  "     Rehman 8  198 


Dr.  Helmuth  reported  concerning  a  [new]  "  Choralbuch,"  which  was 
to  be  printed  in  Philadelphia,  and  to  contain  220  tunes  for  our  Hymn 
Book,  and  wished  that  it  might  be  introduced  generally  into  all  our 
congregations.  The  Synod  for  its  part,  promised  heartily  to  support  it, 
in  case  the  corporation  of  the  Ev.  Luth.  congregation  in  Philadelphia 
retained  the  copyright. 

With  reference  to  the  Pastoral  Letter  of  next  year,  it  was  desired 
that  it  treat  of  the  external  and  internal  condition  of  our  church  in 
North  America ;  but  the  Synod  left  it  to  the  Senior  to  choose  the  sub- 
ject.    It  was,  however,  resolved  : 

1.  That  it  be  the  first  article  in  our  Evangelical  Magazine,  and 

2.  That  the  report  of  our  Synodical  Transactions,  which  shall  be 
given  in  the  Magazine,  shall  be  preceded  by  the  names  of  all  the 
ordained  members,  candidates  and  catechists  belonging  to  this  Minis- 
terium. 

3.  That  it  be  permitted  to  insert  in  the  Magazine  historical  accounts 
of  the  origin  of  each  of  the  congregations  connected  with  us,  and  of 


Con- 

com- 
muni- 

De- 

firmed. 

cants. 

ceased. 

Schools. 

41 

523 

27 

7 

82 

367 

13 

1 

— 

82 

8 

— 

35 

186 

28 

4 

54 

289 

28 

— 

90 

542 

9 

4 

112 

417 

17 

1 

— 

219 

15 

3 

100 

696 

29 

4 

29 

76 

12 

1 

128 

423 

19 

5 

80 

976 

22 

6 

43 

326 

7 

1 

45 

137 

6 

2 

97 

320 

15 

1 

52 

290 

19 

4 

39 

84 

5 

— 

50 

167 

13 

1 

43 

445 

23 

4 

15 

— 

— 

— 

47 

119 

20 

3 

21 

444 

14 

4 

SIXTY-FOURTH  CONVENTION,  1811.  431 

the  evidence  of  the  care  and  guidance  of  the  Lord  Jesus  in  their  preser- 
vation and  increase. 

The  choice  of  the  place  and  time  of  next  year's  Synod  was  taken  up, 
and  when  the  votes  were  gathered  the  majority  was  for  :  Time,  Trinity 
Sunday;  place,  Carlisle. 

Thereupon  the  Syuodical  Meeting  was  closed  with  a  hymn  and 
]ira\  er,  and  the  delegates  were  dismissed.  This  evening  Pastor  Schaefer 
preached  on  Rom.  8:1. 


TRANSACTIONS  OF  THE  MINISTERIAL  MEETING. 


On  Wednesday  morning,  June  12th,  the  President  opened  the  Minis- 
terial Meeting  with  prayer,  and  the  business  was  begun. 

No.  3.  The  complaint  against  Mr.  Forster,  that  he  takes  his  office  too 
lightly  and  without  understanding  preaches  much  on  the  Apocalypse, 
was  referred  to  Pastors  Schaefer  and  Roeller,  as  a  committee.  Where- 
upon it  was  resolved,  that  the  Ministerium  cannot  at  present  have  any- 
thing to  do  with  this  accusation,  because  of  the  great  distance,  and  the 
insufficiency  of  the  reports. 

No.  28.  Concerning  the  complaints  of  a  number  of  members  of  con- 
gregations in  Northampton  County  against  Rev.  Mr.  Jiiger,  Preachers 
Kurtz  and  Lochman  were  appointed  a  committee,  and  upon  their 
motion  it  was  resolved,  that  although  both  sides  seem  to  have  erred,  yet 
the  Ministerium,  for  important  reasons,  cannot  have  anything  to  do 
with  these  accusations,  and  that  a  committee  of  two  members  inform 
the  complainants. 

No.  24.  Concerning  the  discussion  between  Mr.  Geisenheimer,  Jr  , 
and  ?\Tr.  Dill,  the  following  gentlemen,  Doctor  Muhlenberg,  Pastor 
Endress  and  Pastor  Jasinsky,  were  appointed  a  committee  to  investigate 
the  matter.    This  committee  made  the  following  report :  1.  That  human 

weakness  was  shown  on  both  sides,  G gave  too  ready  audience  to 

evil   reports  concerning  a  brother,  and  may  also  have  repeated  them ; 

D made  too  much  of  this,  and  diel  not  try  the  easier  way  of  a  soft 

r,  which  turneth  away  wrath,  but  harshly  rebuked  his  brother. — 
2.  That  therefore  both  brethren  have  cause  in  view  of  their  weakness 
to  acknowledge  their  fault  before  God,  to  forgive  each  other,  and  to 
show  more  love  and  meekness.  3.  That  it  were  well  if  one  or  the  other 
would  move  away  from  the  neighborhood,  and  make  room. 

The  Ministerium  was  gratified  to  set'  that  both  brethren  publicly  for- 
gave each  other,  and  joined  hands  in  token  of  renewed  fellowship. 


432 


DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 


No.  15.  For  the  investigation  of  the  point  concerning  Mr.  Ullrich's 
conduct,  Preachers  Kurtz,  Endres  and  Roller  were  appointed,  who  made 
the  following  report  on  it:  1.  That  they  disapprove  Mr.  Ullrich's  con- 
duct in  reference  to  his  promise  of  marriage,  and  believe  that  he  ha8 
acted  in  an  unprincipled  manner. 

2.  That  they  have  noticed  throughout  that  Mr.  Ullrich  has  fallen  into 
the  habit  of  being  too  ready  with  improper  asseverations. 

The  committee  therefore  moves  that  the  Senior  earnestly  and  seriously 
reprimand  Mr.  Ullrich  for  his  fault. 

This  report  was  adopted,  and  it  was  resolved,  that  the  Senior  give 
him  this  two-fold  reprimand  privately. 

Applicants  for  the  Ministry. 

1.  Mr.  Minig,  student.  2.  Mr.  Ernst,  student.  3.  Mr.  Colson,  stu- 
dent.    4.  Mr.  Leist,  student. 

The  candidates  and  catechists  handed  in  their  sermons  and  diaries : 


Sermon. 

Diary. 

Sermon. 

Diary 

Sanno  .    . 

.    0 

0 

Weigand 

.     .     1 

1 

Scriba  .    . 

.  1 

1 

Heim   .    . 

.     1 

1 

Mensch    . 

.  1 

1 

Engel  .    . 

.     1 

1 

D.  Schaefer 

.  .  1 

0 

Osterlo     . 

.     1 

1 

Heine  .    . 

.    0 

0 

Vanhoff  . 

.     1 

1 

Miller  .    . 

.  1 

1 

Merckel  . 

.     1 

0 

Hecht  .    .    . 

.  1 

1 

Sackman  . 

.     1 

1 

S.  Schaefer  . 

.  1 

1 

Mundsen  . 

.     1 

1 

Batis    .    .    . 

.  1 

1 

Ernst   .    . 

.     1 

1 

Ullrich     . 

.  1 

1 

The  following  were  appointed  to  examine  the  applicants 


1.  Doctor  Muhlenberg )  r<  i  j  -r. 

•™  n  ,  .  /.  r  vJolsen  and  Ernst. 

Pastor  bchaier  ) 

2.  Pastor  Jiiger 
Pastor  Dill 


[  Menig 


and  Leist. 


On  the  papers,  the  following  committees  were  appointed : 
1.  Messrs.  Kurtz,  Plitt  and  Herbst  took  Sanno,  Scriba,  Mensch,  D. 
Schaefer.  2.  Muhlenberg,  Jr.,  Geisenheimer,  Jasinsky  took  Miller, 
Heine,  Hecht,  Batis,  S.  Schafer.  3.  Lochman,  Endress,  Walter,  Butt- 
lertook  Ullrich,  Weigand,  Heine  and  Engel.  4.  Dr.  Helmuth,  Forster, 
Knosky,  Petersen  took  Osterlo, Vanhoff,  Merckel,  Sackman  and  Meend- 
sen. 

The  session  adjourned,  and  met  again  at  12  o'clock. 


SIXTY-FOURTH   CONVENTION,  1811.  433 

12  o'clock  a.m. 

The  committees  brought  in  their  opinions  of  the  papers  of  the  can- 
didates and  catechists. 

First  committee  :  Mr.  Mensch's  has  our  entire  approval ;  we  recom- 
mend him  for  ordination.  Mr.  Scriba's,  middling  (mittelmiissig).  Mr. 
D.  Schaefer's,  inferior  to  even  Scriba's  disposition. 

Second  committee :  Mr.  Hecht's,  middling  and  dry,  adorned  with 
poetic  flights ;  Miller's,  good  (schou),  thorough,  edifying  ;  Biitis's,  good 
and  from  the  heart,  but  full  of  Anglicisms ;  S.  Schafer's,  good,  if  he 
had  had  another  text  than  Noah's  dove. 

Third  committee:  Mr.  Heim's,  simple,  but  from  the  heart,  full,  how- 
ever, of  orthographic  errors  ;  Engel's,  good  (gut),  but  it  is  doubtful 
■whether  he  wrote  it ;  Weigand's,  simple,  but  much  [in  it]  for  the  heart; 
Ullrich's,  it  is  very  doubtful  whether  he  wrote  it  himself. 

Fourth  committee :  Tiedeman's  petition  for  renewal  of  his  license 
shall  be  granted  ;  Merckel's  paper  is  very  defective,  and  taken  from 
others  ;  Osterlo's,  doubtful  whether  he  wrote  it  himself ;  Sackmann  is 
a  useful  man,  and  his  sermon  is  full  of  common  sense ;  Meendsen  and 
Vanhoff  give  evidence  of  great  diligence  and  skill. 

The  committee  on  the  applicants'  reports  : 

Mr.  Colson's  sermon  is  better  than  his  printed  ones  which  he  brought 
along  from  Europe,  and  have  little  that  is  Christian  in  them ;  Mr. 
Ernst's  is  commendable ;  both  are  recommended  for  admission  ;  Mr. 
Menig  was  recommended  as  a  candidate  ;  Mr.  Leist  was  put  off  with  a 
hopeful  prospect. 

The  morning  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

"Wednesday,  3  p.m. 

The  above-mentioned  reports,  Nos.  15,  3  and  28,  were  handed  in  and 
disposed  of. 

The  licenses  of  the  following  men  were  then  renewed :  Sanno,  Mensch, 
D.  Schaefer,  Heine,  Biitis,  Ullrich,  Weigand,  Heim,  Osterlo,  Vanhoff, 
Merckel,  Sackman,  S.  Schaefer,  Scriba,  Miller,  Hecht,  Meendsen. 

Concerning  Messrs.  Lange,  Meyer,  Kramer  and  Engel,  it  was  unani- 
mously Resolved,  That  the  Ministerium  is  not  ready  to  renew  their 
licenses. 

It  was  unanimously  resolved, 

1.  That  none  of  the  candidates  be  ordained  this  year. 

2.  That  Messrs  Willi.  G.  Ernst,  O.  W.  Colson  and  G.  Menig  should 
be  licensed  as  candidates. 

28 


434  DOCUMENTAEY  HISTORY 

3.  That  Mr.  Melzheimer's  request  concerning  Mr.  Rudisill  be  granted, 
to  authorize  him  to  serve  as  assistant  to  his  teacher. 

The  licenses  were  handed  out,  and  the  Ministerial  Meeting  was  closed 
with  an  earnest  prayer. 

This  evening  Rev.  Mr.  Endress  preached  on  Rom.  15 :  33. 

This  is  certified  by 

J.  George  Schmucker, 

Secretary. 

[The  Ministerial  Meeting  is  summarized  thus  in  the  printed  Protocol.] 

The  preachers  sat  down  together  in  fraternal  harmony,  and  consid- 
ered many  important  circumstances  of  our  congregations.  It  was 
pleasant  and  touching  to  see  so  many  pastors  together,  and  the  wish 
doubtless  was  felt  in  many  of  them :  Oh,  that  we  all  might  express  but 
one  mind  and  one  end  in  our  transactions :  to  care  for  the  good  of  the 
church  conscientiously  as  before  the  Lord  ;  to  further  love,  peace  and 
concord  in  doctrine  and  life  among  us  ;  to  strengthen  and  encourage 
ourselves  mutually  in  our  important  calling !  There  were  several  un- 
pleasant accusations,  which  deeply  moved  all  hearts.  The  erring 
brother  was  corrected,  and  we  had  the  great  pleasure  of  seeing  that  he 
took  the  correction  gladly  and  gratefully.  Human  weaknesses  were 
rebuked  in  another,  and  we  rejoiced  to  note  his  contrition,  humility  and 
resignation.  Counsel,  instruction  and  information  were  given  where 
desired  ;  and  we  encouraged  each  other  to  continue  with  all  faithfulness 
in  the  Word  of  the  Lord,  according  to  the  grace  which  the  Great  Shep- 
herd will  grant,  whose  work  in  His  church  we  are  doing. 

Messrs.  Minnig,  Ernst,  and  Colson  had  applied  for  admission,  were 
examined,  and  received  as  candidates.  Messrs.  Tiedeman,  Rudisill, 
and  afterwards,  through  the  officers,  Nicolaus  Schmucker,  were  received 
as  catechists. 

The  Ministerium  was  in  session,  owing  to  its  numerous  duties,  until 
6  o'clock  Wednesday  evening.  Then  all  the  pastors  present  knelt  to- 
gether before  God,  and  commended  themselves  and  all  their  dear  con- 
gregations in  a  touching  manner  to  the  protection  of  their  Lord  and 
Saviour  Jesus  Christ.  This  evening  Rev.  Mr.  Endress  preached  on 
Rom.  15 :  33,  and  the  Senior  Doctor  Helmuth  dismissed  the  Synod 
with  the  warmest,  most  cordial  wishes  of  blessing  for  them  and  their 
congregations. 

This  is  certified  by 

Joh.  Friedrich  Schmidt, 

President. 

George  Schmucker, 

Secretary. 


SIXTY-FIFTH   CONVENTION. 

1812. 


SYNODICAL  MEETING 
Held  in  Carlisle,  Cumberland  County,  May  24,  25,26,  27, 1812. 

The  preachers  and  delegates  assembled  in  the  parsonage  on  Sunday 
morning,  and  went  in  two  processions  to  the  Lutheran  and  Reformed 
churches.     The  following  gentlemen  preached  : 

1.  In  the  Lutheran  Church,  in  the  morning,  Dr.  Helmuth,  on  Psalm 
48 :  13, 14,  15,  and  Dr.  Muhlenberg  conducted  the  consecration  services ; 
in  the  afternoon,  Rev.  Schmucker,  on  Sam.  3  :  22,  23 ;  in  the  evening, 
Pastor  Schiiffer,  on  Col.  1  :  27. 

2.  In  the  Reformed  Church,  in  the  morning,  Rev.  Jiiger,  on  I  Cor. 
1 :  30-31  ,  in  the  afternoon,  Pastor  Kurtz,  on  Hos.  13  :  9. 

Monday  morning,  at  9  o'clock,  the  Synod  met  in  the  new  Lutheran 
church,  and  the  Senior  Reverendi  Ministerii  opened  it  with  a  touching 
prayer. 

Members  of  the  Synod  Present  and  Delegates  with 
Credentials. 


1.  Dr.  Helmuth,  . 

2.  "  Muhlenberg, 

3.  Rev.  Melzheimer 

4.  "  Kurtz,  .  . 

5.  "  Schafer,  Sr. 

6.  "  Jiiger,  .    . 

7.  "  Lochman, 

8.  "  Schmucker 

9.  "  Geisenheiner, 

10.  "  Endrcss, 

11.  "  Rothniuf, 

12.  «  Plitt,    .    . 

13.  "  Dill,     .    . 

14.  "  Flohr,      . 


Sr 


Philadelphia 
Lancaster,  . 
Hanover,   . 
Baltimore, 
Germantown 
Allentown, 
Lebanon,    . 
York,  .  .    . 
New  York, 
Easton,  .    . 
Green  castle, 
New  Holland 
Phiinfield, 
Wythe  County, 


Va., 


Joh.  Lange. 
Benj.  Schaum. 


Daniel  Hofman. 


Georg  Schott 
Jacob  Obb. 


Jac  Keller. 
Jac.  Ringwald. 
Georo:  Zell. 


435 


436 


DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 


15. 

16. 
17. 
18. 
19. 
20. 
21. 
22. 
23. 
24. 
25. 
26. 
27. 
28. 
29. 
30. 
31. 
32. 
33. 
34. 
35. 
36. 
37. 
38. 
39. 
40. 
41. 
42. 
43. 
44. 
45. 
46. 
47. 
48. 
49. 
50. 


Rev.  Grobp, Taney  town,    .    .    . 

"      Stauch, New  Lisbon,  Ohio, 

"      Griiber, Middletown,  .    . 

''      Muhlenberg,  Jr.,    .  Reading,    .    .    . 
"      Geisenheiner,  Jr.,  .  Whitehall,     .    . 

"      Herbst, Manchester,  .    . 

"      Moeller, Chambersburg, 

"      Buttler, Fort  Cumberland 

"      Knosky, Kutztown, 

"      Walter, Middleburg, 

"      Sanno, Carlisle, 

Mr.  Scriba, 


Rehman, Abbottstown, 

Mensch, Springfield,    , 

Haas, Huntingdon, 

Melzheimer,  Jr.,    .    .  Bender's  Church, 

Kessler, Cumberland, 

D.  Schaeffer,     .    .    .  Frederick, 

Heine, Macunshy,     . 

S.  Schaeffer,  ....  Hagerstown, 

Hecht, Pottsgrove,    . 

Miller, Goshenhoppen, 

Heim, Buffalo,    .  •    . 

Ullrich, Tulpehocken, 

Batis, Schaferstown, 

Weigandt, Washington  County 

Osterloh, Luzerne  County, 

AranhorT, Jonestown,    .    . 

Engel, Blumsburg,   .    . 

Sackman, Loudon,  Virginia 

Ernst, Elizabeth  Township, 

Minig, - 

Tiedeman,     .... - 

Rudisill, 

Weygand, Whitpain,     . 

Schmucker,  Jr.,     .    .  Woodstock, 


Lud.  Kesselring. 
Sam.  Stauch. 
Joh.  Schmidt. 
Peter  Stichter. 
Nic.  Wiihrly. 
Adam  Huber. 
Joh.  Rothbaust. 


J.  Nic.  Ernst. 
Christ.  Klein. 
And.  Emrning-er. 


Joh.  Joseph. 
Joh.  Keller. 


Jac.  Gilbert. 
Adam  Leidig. 
Fried.  Heisle. 
Philip  Klein. 
David  Herre. 
Philip  Newman. 
Mich.  Reiter. 
Joh.  Leisenring. 
Joh.  Huster. 
Mich.  Klein. 


Georg.  Anstatt. 
Joh.  Stroh. 
Peter  Moses. 


Joh.  Wolfle. 


Joh.  Stein. 


Preachers  absent  were  :  Henckle,  Carpenter,  Forster,  Spindler,  Jasin- 
sky,  Ugen,  Roller,  Steck,  Petersen. 

Candidates  absent  were :  Riemensclmeider,  Simon,  Merkel,  Meendsen, 
Colsen. 

There  were  present,  therefore,  50  preachers,  85  delegates  from  con- 


SIXTY-FIFTH  CONVENTION,  1812.  437 

gregationa.     The  body  of  the  Synod  thus  consisted  of  135  members,  the 
greatest  number  together  since  the  organization  of  this  Ministerium. 
Hereupon  the  officers  were  elected  for  one  year  : 

1.  Pastor  Kurtz,  President. 

2.  Rev.  Mr.  Schmucker,  Secretary. 

3.  Pastor  Lochman,  Treasurer. 

The  communications  numbering  thirty-six  were  handed  in,  and  the 
preachers  and  delegates  divided  themselves  into  nine  committees,  to 
examine  the  papers  and  report  in  the  afternoon. 

The  morning  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

3   P.M. 

The  session  was  opened  with  prayer,  the  committees  handed  in  their 
reports,  and  the  business  was  begun.  Concerning  the  decease  of  two 
respected  (tcohlverdienter)  fathers  of  our  Synod,  the  following  was 
moved  and  adopted  : 

1.  That  in  the  future,  the  death  of  any  preacher  of  this  Synod  be 
published  in  the  newspapers ;  and  that  every  member  of  this  Minister- 
ium on  all  such  occasions  wear  mourning  for  thirty  days,  putting  crape 
about  his  hat  as  soon  as  he  learns  of  it. 

2.  That  the  members  of  this  Ministerium  wear  mourning  for  thirty  days 
in  view  of  the  decease  of  their  dear  and  highly  respected  President,  the 
Rev.  Pastor  Schmidt,  of  Philadelphia,  and  of  the  worthy  Pastor  Streit, 
of  Winchester. 

Concerning  the  communication  of  Mr.  Hinkel,  traveling  preacher  of 
last  year,  in  which  he  makes  a  demand  on  the  Ministerium  for  610, 
and  asks  that  85  be  sent  to  Widow  Krug,  and  five  copies  of  the 
Magazine  to  himself  for  the  remainder,  it  was  resolved  that  his  request 
be  granted. 

The  Barren  Hill  congregation  testifies  to  its  satisfaction  with  Mr. 
Christian  Schiifer,  and  asks  for  his  admission.  Referred  to  the  Minis- 
terium. 

Concerning  the  Christian  and  conscientious  question  of  Mr.  Simon: 
Whether  he  be  permitted  to  give  communion  to  Reformed  people  also, 
it  was  Resolved,  That  in  ca.se  of  necessity  it  might  be  given  to  any  Pro- 
testant in  good  standing,  if  he  cannot  have  the  services  of  his  own  pas- 
tor,  and  that  Mr.  Lochman  send  him  this  answer. 

Concerning  the  fraternal  communication  of  the  North  Carolina 
Synod,  which  was  read, 

Resolved,  1 .  That  it  be  published  and  answered  in  our  Evangelical 
Magazine,  with  a  preface  by  the  Senior. 


438  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

2.  That  he  recommend  our  Hymn  Book  to  that  Synod. 

3.  That  a  copy  of  our  Magazine,  Nos.  1  to  5,  be  sent  to  that  Synod, 
as  evidence  of  our  affection  and  gratitude. 

Concerning  the  letter  from  Stark  County,  Ohio,  in  which  they  ask 
for  a  preacher,  the  Synod  advised  them  to  apply  to  the  preachers  in 
that  district. 

Concerning  Mr.  Cramer's  communication,  the  Synod  resolved,  That 
it  can  not  yet  have  anything  to  do  with  the  Professor,  because  there  is 
no  sure  evidence  of  his  actual  reformation. 

Regarding  the  complaints  against  Mr.  Forster,  from  the  neighbor- 
hood of  New  Lancaster,  the  Synod  desires  that  the  matter  be  investi- 
gated by  a  Special  Conference  there,  which  must  report  to  us  before 
we  can  decide. 

Upon  the  accusations  of  Mr.  Petersen  against  several  of  his  former 
congregations,  which  have  not  yet  made  satisfaction  for  services  ren- 
dered them,  against  which  accusations  delegates  defended  themselves, 
the  Ministerium  could  not  enter,  because  Mr.  Petersen  was  not  present. 

In  order  to  settle  the  difficulties  in  Hagerstown  concerning  preach- 
ing in  English,  both  parties  were  permitted  to  select  one  ordained 
preacher  and  one  delegate  each,  and  the  Synod  chose  the  fifth  man ; 
these  to  be  a  committee  to  suggest  some  action  in  the  matter.  The 
German  party  chose  Dr.  Helmuth  and  Mr.  Lange ;  the  delegate,  Dr. 
Muhlenberg  and  Mr.  Benj.  Schaum ;  the  Synod,  Rev.  Lochman ;  and 
these  brought  in  the  following  report  next  day  : 

1.  No  language  other  than  the  German  shall  be  publicly  preached 
in  our  German  churches,  without  the  consent  of  the  Church  Council 
and  a  majority  of  the  communicant  and  contributing  members  of  the 
congregation  which  owns  the  church. 

2.  The  congregation  in  Hagerstadt  is  therefore  advised  to  have  it 
publicly  announced  in  its  church  that  the  members  of  the  Church 
Council  and  the  congregation  shall  decide  the  question,  as  their  charter 
requires, — Whether  they  will  be  satisfied  with  the  preaching  of  the 
Word  of  God  in  the  German  language  exclusively,  or  whether  the 
English  language  has  become  necessary  alongside  of  the  German,  and 
is  now  demanded. 

3.  With  the  decision  of  a  majority  of  the  votes  the  members  of  the 
congregation  shall  then  be  satisfied,  and  the  preacher  of  the  place  shall 
act  accordingly. 

4.  Until  the  question  is  decided,  the  preacher  shall  refrain  from 
English  preaching  in  the  German  church.  It  was  accepted  in  its  en- 
tirety. 

Mr.  Biitis  was  permitted  to  accept  the  congregation  in  Mayerstcwn, 


SIXTY-FIFTH  CONVENTION,  1812.  439 

which  had  unanimously  elected  him,  and  at  the  same  time  it  was  re- 
solved, that  he  he  released  from  the  congregation  in  the  Swamp  as  soon 
as  there  are  four  other  congregations  near  there  which  can  he  supplied. 

The  favorahle  testimonial  for  Mr.  Vanhoff  from  Jonestown  and 
Hummelstown  was  heard  with  pleasure;  and  Mr.  Ernst  was  permitted 
to  accept  the  call  from  Elizabeth,  Maytown  and  Columbia. 

The  congregations  at  Stiihle's,  Bleymeier's,  Freyen  and  Flinschbach's, 
in  York  County,  called  Mr.  Joh.  Herbst,  who  was  granted  them,  pro- 
vided he  passes  his  examination.  So  also  was  Mr.  Schindel  granted  to 
the  congregations  in  Sunbury,  Rickert's,  Peter's  and  Rieth's,  if  he  is 
found  capable.  To  the  congregations  in  the  State  of  Ohio,  in  Fairfield 
and  Packaway,  Mr.  Leist. 

Mr.  Osterlo  was  recommended  to  the  congregation  at  the  School- 
house,  near  Carlisle,  and  he  was  permitted  to  accept  those  at  Langsdorfs 
and  Connodoquinet. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer.  This  evening  Mr.  Geisenheimer, 
Sr.,  preached  on  II  Cor.  3  :  4-11. 

Tuesday  Morning,  6  o'clock. 

The  morning  session  was  opened  with  prayer,  and  the  lists  of  the 
Baptized,  Confirmed,  Communicants,  Deceased  and  Schools  were  handed 
in. 

Bap-        Con-        Comrau-       De- 

tized.     firmed,     nicants.    ceased.   Schools. 

1.  Dr.  Helmuth (519)     (60)   (1000)   (165)      (5) 

2     "    Muhlenberg 199        55        497        51         1 

3.  Pastor  Melzheimer    ....     —        —  —        —      — 

4.  "  Kurz 107  41  301  46  1 

5.  "  Schaffer 139  32  285  27  1 

6.  "  Jager 116  61  419  27  3 

7.  "  Lochman 126  67  514  31  5 

8.  "  Schmucker 197  108  509  53  5 

9.  "  Endres 150  109  494  32  11 

10.  "       Rothrauf 128  46  428  12  4 

11.  "      Plitt 151  79  637  18  4 

12.  "       Forster 145  56  86  6  4 

13.  "  Dili  (Diehl)  ....  45  14  151  7  1 

14.  "   Flohr 188  23  290  19  4 

15.  "   Grobp 97  96  211  14  3 

10.  "   Stauch 304  58  398  11  8 

17.  "   Graber 90   —   179   25   3 

18.  "   Muhlenberg,  Jr.  .  .  153    74    582    35    2 


440 


DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 


Bap-  Con-  Commu-       De- 

tized.  firmed,  nicants.  ceased.  Schools. 

19.  Pastor  Geisenhainer      ...  112  74  766  16  7 

20.  "      Herbst 195  —  335  35  2 

21.  "       Jasinsky 66  34  153  9  1 

22.  "      Steck 296  100  472  30  — 

23.  "      Moller 118  37  215  19  3 

24.  "       Buttler 21  7  89  1  — 

25.  «       Knosky 300  101  1051  25  7 

26.  "      Walter   ......  284  203  777  38  8 

27.  "       Petersen 70  13  171  18  — 

28.  Mr.  Sanno 167  41  293  18  1 

29.  «    Scriba 137  —  30  —  — 

30.  «  Rieman 125  86  207  13  3 

31.  "  Mensch 105  37  234  24  4 

32.  «  Haas 35  40  90  9  — 

33.  "    Melzheimer,  Jr.    ...     26  45  165  5  — 

34.  "     Kessler 56  34  91  12  2 

35.  "    D.  Schiifer 150  106  476  23  3 

36.  "     Heine  .......  104  38  620  20  2 

37.  "     Riemenschneider    ...      32  19  231  —  — 

38.  "    S.  Schafer 170  81  578  11  1 

39.  "    Hecht 123  93  205  21  3 

40.  "    Miller 156  51  743  26  4 

41.  "    Heim 155  34  217  22  1 

42.  "     Ullerich 169  159  1021  33  5 

43.  "    Batis 133  52  501  21  6 

44.  «     Weygandt 159  48  482  7  2 

45.  "     Osterloh 62  30  115  11  4 

46.  "     Vanhoff 106  80  408  16  4 

47.  "    Engel 125  30  244  18  3 

48.  "     Sackman 79  15  115  10  — 

49.  "     Meendsen 209  42  427  53  6 

50.  «     Ernst 22  —  13  10  3 

51.  "    Colson 94  45  140  —  3 

52.  "    Miinig 139  60  423  24  6 

53.  "     Weyand  .......  37  —  —  —  — 

The  morning  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

Tuesday  Morning,  9  o'clock. 
The  session  was  opened  with  prayer,  and  the  business  was  begun. 

Messrs.  Plitt,  Heine  and  Hoffman  were  appointed  a  committee  to 


SIXTY-FIFTH  CONVENTION,  1812.  441 

audit  the  accounts  of  the  Treasurer,  and  found  everything  correct.  A 
balance  of  8509.793  was  left  in  the  treasury  from  last  year. 

Messrs.  Muhlenberg,  Jr.,  Schaum  and  Lauge  were  appointed  a  com- 
mittee to  audit  the  accounts  of  Mr.  Lex  with  reference  to  our  Magazine. 
They  were  found  correct,  and  the  Synod  resolved,  that  the  Synod  thank 
Mr.  Lex  in  writing  for  his  trouble,  and  that  Mr.  Lochman  prepare  this 
communication  in  the  name  of  the  Synod. 

The  preachers  were  asked  individually,  in  the  order  in  which  their 
names  stand  upon  the  roll,  to  state  how  many  copies  of  the  Magazine 
they  could  dispose  of.  The  answers  were  noted,  and  Messrs.  Lochman 
and  Lange  distributed  the  copies.  Such  as  are  not  disposed  of  may  be 
returned  at  the  next  Synod. 

The  preachers  now  examined  the  print  of  Dr.  Luther's  picture,  which 
Mr.  Lange  showed  them  ;  51  copies  were  subscribed  for. 

The  following  petitions  were  read  : 

1.  From  the  congregation  in  Washington,  that  we  admit  Mr.  Hyet. 

2.  From  the  congregation  in  Jefferson  County,  State  of  Ohio,  that 
we  admit  Mr.  Job.  Reinhart. 

3.  From  the  congregation  in  Belmont,  Jefferson,  Guery  and  Mus- 
kingum Counties,  that  we  admit  Mr.  Anthony  Weyer. 

These  petitions  were  referred  to  the  Ministerium,  where  the  men  are 
first  to  be  examined.  A  petition  was  also  read  from  the  congregation 
in  Turtle  Creek,  Indiana,  in  which  Mr.  And.  Alms  is  recommended 
for  admission  :  with  whom,  however,  we  could  have  nothing  to  do  at 
the  time,  because  Mr.  Steck  had  given  warning  against  him. 

The  President  asked  permission  to  go  home,  which  was  granted  him. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

3  pm. 

The  session  was  opened  with  prayer,  and  Dr.  Muhlenberg  was  chosen 
President  pro  tern. 

At  the  time  for  the  choice  of  a  place  for  the  next  Synod,  the  question 
was  put  whether  the  old  Synodical  resolution,  according  to  which  the 
Synod  must  be  held  west  of  the  Susquehanna  every  three  years,  shall 
be  annul leil  ?     There  were  32  votes  in  favor  and  36  opposed 

The  time  and  place  of  next  year's  Synod  were  decided  upon  :  1. 
Time,  Trinity  Sunday.     2.  Place,  Reading. 

In  reference  to  the  Synodical  Treasury,  the  following  distribution  of 
the  moneys  was  determined  upon  : 

1.  That  the  poor  preachers'  widows,  Kurtz,  Krug,  Liidgen,  Weyn- 
land  and  Streit,  be  granted  §20  each  this  year. 

2.  That  Mr.  Probst  be  advanced  a  loan  of  $50  to  aid  him  in  his 


442  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

studies,  as  soon  as  one  of  the  preachers  is  willing  to  begin  to  instruct 
him. 

3.  That  Mr.  Jacob  Strein  receive  $50,  a  similar  loan. 

In  reference  to  the  traveling  preachers,  it  was  resolved  : 

1 .  That  Mr.  Tiedeman  visit  the  State  of  Ohio  and  the  western  parts 
of  Pennsylvania  for  three  months,  and  receive  one  month's  salary  in 
advance. 

2.  That  Mr.  Abraham  Reck  visit  the  vacant  congregations  in  New 
Virginia  for  three  months,  as  traveling  preacher,  with  the  additional 
clause  that  if  he  find  congregations  which  desire  to  accept  him  as 
preacher,  he  be  permitted  to  accept  them. 

3.  That  Mr.  Paul  Hinckle  be  one  of  our  traveling  preachers  for 
three  months,  in  such  regions  as  he  himself  deems  most  necessary. 

4.  Resolved,  That  each  traveling  preacher  of  this  Synod  in  future  re- 
ceive $33.33  for  each  month  actually  spent  in  traveling,  and  that  Mr. 
Tiedeman  be  paid  for  one  month  in  advance. 

5.  Mr.  Scriba  reports  that  he  received  $31  in  his  journeys  and  re- 
ceived $30  in  advance  ;  therefore  asks  $39  from  the  Synod,  which  was 
granted  him. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Daniel  Dunn  be  permitted  to  visit  the  vacant 
congregations  in  New  Virginia,  and  that  the  officers  have  liberty  to  re- 
new his  license  for  congregations  in  that  place. 

Concerning  a  petition  from  Crawford  County,  Pennsylvania,  in  which 
request  is  made  for  a  preacher :  Resolved,  That  any  candidate  be  per- 
mitted to  visit  and  accept  these  congregations. 

The  Synodical  Meeting  was  closed  with  prayer  and  the  delegates 
were  dismissed. 

This  evening  Rev.  Mr.  Knosky  preached  on  Matth.  7:  19,  20,21. 


MINISTERIAL  TRANSACTIONS. 


Wednesday  a.m.,  9  o'clock. 

Applicants  for  the  ministry  were  the  following  :  Nicolaus  Hemping, 
Abraham  Reck,  Adam  Rudisill,  Anthony  Weyher,  Peter  Schindel, 
Joh.  Herbst,  Nicolaus  Schmucker,  Joh.  Reinhart,  Heinrich  Huet,  Joh. 
Becker,  Jacob  Leist,  Christian  Schafer,  Daniel  Dunn. 

Friedrich  Kiister  and  And.  Alms  also  applied,  but  were  rejected, 
the  latter  in  consequence  of  a  letter  from  Rev.  Mr.  Steck. 


SIXTY-FIFTH  CONVENTION,  1812.  443 

The  candidates  and  catechists  handed  in  their  papers : 


Mr 

.  Scriba    .    . 
Rieman  .    . 

Diary. 
1 
1 

Ser- 
mon. 
1 

1 

Li- 
cense. 

1 

Mr. 

tt 

Weygandt  . 
Osterlo    .    . 

Diary. 
1 
1 

Ser- 
mon. 
1 
1 

Li- 
cense. 
1 
1 

a 

Mensch  .    . 

1 

1 

1 

a 

Vanhoff .    . 

1 

1 

1 

tt 

Melzheimer 

1 

1 

1 

(i 

Sack  man    . 

1 

1 

1 

u 

Haas  .    .    . 

— 

1 

1 

tt 

Meeudsen   . 

1 

1 

i 

<( 

Kessler  .    . 

— 

— 

1 

it 

Ernst  .    .    . 

1 

1 

— 

u 

D.    Schiifer. 

1 

1 

1 

a 

Colsen     .    . 

— 

— 

l 

(I 

Heine     .    . 

1 

1 

1 

tt 

Minig      .    . 

1 

1 

l 

(( 

Ivie  men- 

catechists'. 

sch  neider. 

1 

1 

1 

Mr. 

,  Rudisill  .    . 



— 

l 

tt 

S.  Schiifer  . 

1 

1 

1 

tt 

Tiedeman   . 

— 

2 

— 

(( 

Hecht     .    . 

1 

1 

1 

<i 

Schmucker  . 

1 

1 

l 

u 

Miller     .    . 

1 

1 

1 

It 

Engel     .    . 



1 

l 

« 

Heim      .    . 
Ullerich 

1 

1 
1 

1 
1 

11 

Weyand 
Dunn     .    . 

1 

1 

1 

l 

<( 

Biitis  .    .    . 

1 

1 

1 

(( 

Hemping    . 

— 

1 

l 

The  ordained  preachers  divided  into  committees  and  took  the  papers 
to  report  on  them. 

1st  committee.  Dr3.  Muhlenberg,  Flor ;  report,  Hemping  writes  a 
good,  well-connected  sermon  ;  in  Greek  he  is  fair,  Weyand  tolerably 
good. 

2d  committee.  Rev.  Melzheimer.  Tiedeman's  license  can  be  re- 
newed. 

3d  committee.  Revs.  Schiifer,  Griiber.  The  work  of  Dunn,  Wey- 
gand,  Schmucker  is  good  ;  they  shall  continue  to  study  diligently. 

4th  committee.  Revs.  Jiiger,  Stauch.  S.  Schiifer's  sermon  is  thor- 
ough and  well  ordered  ;  Mensch's,  also  truly  evangelical ;  Haas'  also. 

5th  committee.  Revs.  Endress,  Herbst.  Rieman,  a  very  good 
(schone)  sermon ;  Scriba's,  good  in  the  beginning;  D.  Schiifer's  tolerable. 

6th  committee.  Revs.  Rothrauf,  Moller.  Heine,  sermon  and  diary, 
connected,  instructive,  edifying  ;  Melzheimer,  also  ;  Heim,  also. 

7th  committee.  Revs.  Geisenhainer,  Walter.  Riemensclmeider's 
sermon  pleased  them  ;  Miller  and  Hecht  are  gratifying. 

8th  committee.  Revs.  Plitt,  Geisenhainer.  Biitis,  Ullrich  and  Wey- 
gand  are  gratifying. 

9th  committee.  Revs.  Dill,  Grobp.  Vanhoff,  very  good  [schon]  and 
well  ordered;  Sackmau's,  weak,  but  well  meaning;  Osterlo,  not  orderly 
in  his  work. 


444  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

10th  committee.  Revs.  Miihienberg,  Knoske.  The  sermon  of  Ernst 
is  very  excellent ;  he  has  fine  attainments  ;  Munich,  sermon  is  good,  in 
other  branches  he  is  weak ;  Engel's  sermon,  very  mediocre. 

MOTION. 

Pastor  Plitt  made  a  motion  for  an  addition  to  the  Constitution,  which 
he  gave  over  to  be  considered  until  next  year.     It  reads  as  follows  : 

1.  A  fourth  rank  of  preachers  shall  be  appointed,  with  the  title  of 
Ordained  Deacons. 

2.  The  number  of  preachers  hitherto  ordained  shall  not  be  increased 
by  receiving  any  one  who 

(a)  does  not  have,  in  addition  to  other  theological  attainments,  also 
the  ability  correctly  to  translate  the  Greek  Testament  and  a  Latin 
prose  writer,  at  least  with  the  aid  of  a  lexicon,  and  who  cannot  write  his 
mother  tongue  orthographically ; 

(b)  who  has  not  had  a  three  years'  course  of  theological  training  in 
the  United  States  or  for  the  same  length  of  time  served  congregations 
here  in  an  exemplary  way. 

(c)  With  these  limitations  it  is  left  to  the  judgment  of  the  Minis- 
terium,  to  ordain  candidates  immediately  as  pastors  or  only  as  deacons. 
When  the  time  comes  that  such  deacons  are  to  be  advanced  to  be  pas- 
tors, this  maybe  done  by  a  second  laying  on  of  hands1  and  another 
certificate  of  ordination. 

3.  Deacons  shall  have  all  the  privileges  of  pastors,  with  the  following 
exceptions : 

(a)  They  are  not  to  be  elected  officers  of  the  Ministerium. 

(b)  They  shall  not  change  congregations  without  the  consent  of  the 
Ministerium  or  its  officers. 

(c)  They  shall  have  the  privilege  in  the  Ministerial  Meeting  to 
express  their  opinions  in  all  cases,  and  to  make  motions ;  except  when 
some  one  is  to  be  advanced  to  the  grade  of  pastor,  or  is  being  examined 
for  this  purpose ;  in  which  case  they  are  requested  to  withdraw. 

The  following  men  were  proposed  for  ordination,  and  examined  by 
Messrs.  Geisenhainer,  Sr.,  Lochman  and  Melzheimer:  Sanno,  Mensch, 
Haas,  Melzheimer,  Jr.,  David  Schaefer  and  Heine.  The  Fathers, 
Doctor  Helmuth,  Doctor  Muhlenberg  and  Pastor  Melzheimer,  performed 
the  solemn  ceremony  in  the  church  at  11  o'clock. 

The  applicants  were  examined  by  Messrs.  Schaeffer,  Sr.,  Jager  and 
Moeller,  and  proposed  and  approved  for  full  licenses. 

The  President  declared  in  the  name  of  the  Ministerium,  that  here- 

1  Originally:  "by  a  simple  declaration  of  the  Ministerium,"  corrected  as  in  the 
text. 


SIXTY-FIFTH  CONVENTION,  1812.  445 

after  none  should  be  ordained  as  pastor  who  has  not  been  regularly 
educated  for  the  ministry. 

Resolved,  That  Rev.  Mr.  Lochman  earnestly  reprimand  Mr.  Forster 
in  the  name  of  the  Ministerium,  for  assuming  the  right  to  grant  Mr. 
Weyher  a  license. 

Finally  Mr.  Dill  made  a  violent  accusation  against  Mr.  Geisenhainer, 
Jr.,  which  was  put  into  the  hands  of  a  committee  to  investigate  it  on 
the  ground.  Each  party  chose  two  men,  and  the  Ministerium  chose  the 
fifth.  Messrs.  Jiiger,  Endres,  Muhlenberg,  Plitt  and  Knoske  were 
appointed. 

As  Doctor  Muhlenberg  asked  permission  to  go  home,  Pastor  Melz- 
heimer  was  chosen  President  pro  tern.,  and  presided  on  Wednesday 
afternoon. 

Resolved,  That  the  officers  of  the  Ministerium  grant  Mr.  F.  Christian 
Schaefer  a  full  license  as  soon  as  he  attain  the  required  age. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Sackman  may  accept  the  congregations  near  Griin- 
castel,  and  that  the  President  renew  his  license  for  that  place. 

After  the  President  had  called  all  the  candidates  forward,  and  read  a 
statement  of  their  duties  with  an  earnest  admonition,  a  hymn  was  sung 
and  all  the  pastors  present  knelt  before  God,  and  commended  them- 
selves and  their  congregations  to  the  Great  Shepherd. 


SIXTY-SIXTH  CONVENTION. 

1813. 


SYNODICAL  MEETING. 
Held  iu  Beading,  Berks  County,  Penna.,  June  13,  14,  15  and  16,  1813. 

On  Sunday  morning  the  preachers  and  delegates  assembled  in  the 
parsonage,  and  went  in  procession  to  the  Lutheran  and  Reformed 
churches. 

A.M. — Dr.  Helmuth  preached  on  Matt.  11 :  16, 17,  in  the  Lutheran 
church ;  and  Pastor  Lochman  on  II  Tim.  2 :  19,  20,  21,  in  the  Re- 
formed. P.M. — Pastor  Schmucker  on  Isa.  12:  3.  In  the  evening, 
Pastor  End  res  on  Tit.  1 :  2.  On  Saturday  evening,  Pastor  Schaefer, 
Sr.,  had  preached. 

Monday  Morning. 

At  9  o'clock  the  preachers  and  delegates  assembled  in  the  Lutheran 
church,  and  Dr.  Helmuth,  as  Senior,  opened  the  Synod  with  an  earnest 
prayer,  whereupon  business  was  begun. 

The  roll  was  called,  and  the  following  preachers  were  found  to  be 

present : 

1.  Dr.  Helmuth Philadelphia. 

2.  "    Muhlenberg     ....  Lancaster. 

3.  Pastor  Schaefer,  Sr.  .    .    .  Philadelphia. 

4.  "  Jager Allentown. 

5.  "  Schmucker    .    .    .  York. 

6.  "  Lochman   ....  Lebanon. 

7.  "  Endress Easton. 

8.  "  Dill Plainfield. 

9.  "  Griiber Middletown,  Maryland. 

10.  "  Muhlenberg,  Jr.    .  Reading. 

11.  "  Geisenheimer     .    .  Whitehall. 

12.  "  Jasinsky     ....  Pikeland. 

13.  "  Herbst,  Sr.    ...  Manchester. 

14.  "  Moller Chambersburg. 

15.  "  Roller Goshenhoppen. 

16.  "  Buttler Fort  Cumberland. 

446 


SIXTY  SIXTH  CONVENTION,  1S13.  447 

17.  Pastor  Knosky Kutztown. 

18.  "       Walther     ....  Mittelburg. 

19.  "       Sanno Carlisle. 

20.  "       Mensch Springfield. 

21.  "        Haas Huntingdon. 

22.  "       D  Schaefer    .    .    .  Frederichstadt. 

23.  "       Heine Makunschy. 

Candidates. 

24.  Mr.  Scriba. 

25.  "     S.  Schaefer Hagerstown. 

26.  "     Hecht Pottsgrove. 

27.  "     Miller Goshenhoppen. 

28.  "    Heim Buffalo. 

29.  "     Ullrich Tulpehocken. 

30.  "     Batis Warwick. 

31.  "     Weigant Washington  County. 

32.  "     Osterlo Cumberland  County. 

33.  "     Vanhoff Jonestown. 

34.  "     Engel Blumsburg. 

35.  "     Meeudsen Northampton  County. 

36.  "     Ernst Elizabethtown. 

37.  "     Colson Mount  Bethel. 

38.  "     Becker Germantown. 

39.  "     Minnig Pinegrove. 

40.  "     Tiedeman Somerset. 

41.  "    Rudisill York  County. 

42.  "    Weiandt Whitpain. 

43.  "    Hemping Leykensthal. 

44.  "    Rich Winchester,  Virginia. 

45.  "    Schindel Sunbury. 

46.  "    C.  Schiifer Harrisburg. 

47.  "    J.  Herbst York  County. 

The  following  were  absent : 

1.  Pastor  Melzheimer,  Sr  .    .  McAllister. 


2. 
3. 
4. 
5. 
6. 
7. 


Kurz Baltimore. 

Henkel Point  Pleasant,  Virginia.' 

Carpenter    ....  Culpepper,  Virginia. 
Geisenhainer,  Sr.    .  New  York. 
Rothrauf    ....  Greencastle. 
Forster Ohio. 


448 


DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 


8.  Pastor  Flohr Wythe  County. 

9.  "      Grob Taneytown. 

10.  "■      Spindler Stanton. 

11.  "      Stauch New  Lisbon,  Ohio. 

12.  "      Ilgen Aaronsburg. 

13.  "      Steck Griinsburg. 

14.  "      Petersen Somerset  County. 

15.  "      Melzheimer,  Jr  .    .  Benders'  Church. 

16.  Mr.  Kehman Abbotstown. 

17.  "     Keszler Cumberland  County. 

18.  "     Riemenschneider    .    .  Rockingham,  Virginia. 

19.  "     Simon Ohio. 

20.  "     Merkel Genessee. 

21.  "     Sackman Loudon,  Virginia. 

22.  "     N.  Schmucker    .    .    .  Millerstadt,  Virginia. 

23.  "     Dunn 

24.  "     Reinhardt 

25.  "     Weyer Ohio. 

26.  "     Huet Ohio. 

27.  "     Leist ,    .  Ohio. 

All  (most)1  of  these  absentees  presented  their  excuses,  some  in  writing 
and  the  rest  verbally,  through  others. 

The  delegates  who  presented  written  credentials  were  : 


4.  Philip  Kleckner 

.    .  Allentown. 

5.  Conrad  Hoffman 

.  Lebanon. 

6.  Brillinger 

.  York. 

8.  Peter  Stichter     . 

9.  Hen  rich  Siegfried 

. 

13.  Joseph  Wagner 

.  Huntingdon. 

14.  Fried  rich  Heiszly  . 

.  Frederichstadt 

16.  Jacob  Schroder 

.  Pottsgrove. 

1  Priu 

ted 

ir 

mutes. 

SIXTY-SIXTH  CONVENTION,  1813.  449 

17.  Johan  Fucbs New  Hanover. 

18.  Friedrich  Steiuer  ....  Buffalo. 

19.  J.  Adam  Ried    .....  Tulpehocken. 

20.  Samuel  Rex Schiiferstown. 

21.  Bernhard  Siegman    .    .    .  "Washington  County. 

22.  Adam  Kiefer Cumberland  County. 

23.  Simon  Wartman    ....  Blumsburg. 

24.  Adam  Heckman    ....  Northampton  County. 

25.  Michael  Kiener      ....  Mount  Bethel. 

26.  Nicolaus  Beck Elizabethtown. 

27.  Jacob  Duy Germantown. 

28.  Johan  Ried Pinegrove. 

29.  Carl  Emig York  County. 

30.  Henrich  Halman  ....  Whitpain. 

31.  Nicolaus  Schneider  .    .    .  Lyken's  Valley. 

32.  Paul  Baity Sunbury. 

33.  Daniel  Stein Harrisburg. 

84.  Johan   Bordner     ....  York  County. 

At  this  time,  therefore,  the  whole  Synod  was  composed  of  47 
preachers  and  34  delegates,  altogether  81  members. 

After  the  delegates  had  presented  their  credentials  and  taken  their 
appointed  seats,  the  vote  for  officers  was  taken,  and  after  the  ballots  had 
been  gathered  and  counted,  it  was  found  that  the  following  pastors  had 
been  elected  for  the  term  of  one  year  : 

Dr.  Muhlenberg  as  President. 
Pastor  Lochman  as  Secretary. 
Pastor  Schiifer,  Sr.,  as  Treasurer. 

The  communications  to  the  Synod  were  handed  to  the  President  and 
numbered.     It  was  found  that  there  were  27  of  them. 

With  the  consent  of  the  Synod  five  committees  were  appointed  by 
the  President  to  examine  the  communications  which  had  been  pre- 
sented, and  to  report  on  the  contents  of  the  same  in  the  afternoon.  Each 
committee  was  to  be  composed  of  2  pastors,  1  candidate  and  2  delegates. 

The  first  committee  was  composed  of  Messrs.  Schiifer,  Sr.,  Jager, 
Hecht  and  Delegates  Haas  and  Schindel. 

The  second,  of  Messrs.  Schmucker,  Endress,  S.  Schafer  and  Dele- 
gates Lange  and  Kleckner. 

The  third,  of  Messrs.  Dill,  Graber,  Miller  and  Delegates  Hoffman 
and  Brillinger. 

The  fourth,  of  Messrs.  Geisenhainer,  Jr.,  Jasinsky,  Ullrich  and  Dele- 
gates Brotzmau  and  Stichter. 
29 


450  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

The  fifth,  of  Messrs.  Moller,  Roller,  Biitis  and  Delegates  Eyer  and 
Rex. 

Then  the  Protocol  of  last  year's  meeting  of  Synod  was  read,  and  the 
preachers  handed  in  the  number  of  their  baptized,  confirmed,  communi- 
cants, buried  and  schools  as  follows  : 


Dr.  Helmuth  388        gl       m      ng  g 


Com- 

Bap-  Con-  muni-  De- 

tized.  firmed,  cants,  ceased.  Schools. 

Pastor  Schafer    )     

Dr.  Muhlenberg 171  52  460  43  1 

Pastor  Kurz 126  —  212  63  1 

"      Jiiger 137  84  492  24  4 

"      Lochman 131  70  559  43  5 

"      Schmucker 237  87  413  48  4 

"      Endress 176  32  452  29  11 

"      Flohr 63  30  84  12  2 

"      Graber 84  —  152  20  3 

"      Geisenhainer,  Jr 96  42  497  23  6 

"      Forster 226  33  157          6  4 

"      Ilgen 152  172  787  24  8 

"      Herbst  Sr 184  65  410  34  3 

"      Moller 124  37  290  25  2 

"      Buttler 33  8  90          7  — 

"      Roller 101  26  435  30  3 

"      Rothrauf 124  59  308  25  4 

"      Knoske 230  126  1046  43  5 

"      Walther 286  46  564  48  8 

"      Sanno 228  68  307          9  1 

"      Mensch 128  27  213  31  4 

"      Haas 40  —  90          6  — 

"      D.  Schafer 189  76  473  33  1 

"      Steck 351  97  672  24  4 

"      Heine 114  71  675  23  3 

Mr.  Scriba 15  —  —  —  — 

"    S.  Schafer 154  47  413  14  2 

"     Hecht 127  —  220  26  2 

"     Heim 130  13  176  30  2 

"     Ulrich 116  75  1090  47  5 

"    Biitis 156  78  647  25  6 

"    Weigandt Ill  —  462  13  2 

"     Osterlo 89  61  264          7  4 

"    Banhoff 138  28  440  13  4 

"     Engel    143  61  235  22  5 

"     Meendsen 157  100  692  34  4 

"     Ernst 103  60  381  16  2 

"     Colson 152  39  240  27  5 


SIXTY-SIXTH  CONVENTION,   1813.  451 

Coin- 
Bap-  Con-  muni-  De- 
tized.  firmed,  cants,  ceased.  Schools. 

Mr.  Becker 67  17  125  85  1 

"     Mennig 206  77  535  39  6 

"    Tiedeman 97  G3  151  9  2 

"     Kudisill 72  7G  230  11  3 

"     Hemping 216  109  641  19  5 

"    Schindel 100  82  351  33  4 

"    Reck 52  —  —  —  — 

"     C.  Schaffer 65  83  258  16  3 

"     Herbst,  Jr 102  17  167  22  4 

"     Huet 30  —  25  4  — 

"     Weiand 41  60  301  6  1 

"     N.  Schmucker 123  117  239  —  — 

N.  B. — In  connection  with  these  reports  the  following  should  be 
noted  : 

1.  That  it  is  customary  in  many  congregations  to  celebrate  tbe  Holy 
Communion,  two,  three,  and  four  times  a  year,  while  in  others  it  is 
celebrated  but  once. 

2.  Furthermore,  that  in  many  congregations,  young  people  are  con- 
firmed but  once  in  two  years ;  in  others,  every  year ;  hence  it  is  that 
some  preachers  have  many  confirmed  one  year,  and  the  next  but  a  few 
or  none  at  all. 

3.  Finally,  it  is  also  necessary  to  state  that  there  are  many  more 
German  schools  in  our  country  than  are  given  here.  Those  given  here 
are  only  congregational  schools  which  are  under  the  immediate  control 
of  the  congregation.  But  there  are  very  many  other  German  schools 
which  neighboring  farmers  have  established  among  themselves,  and  of 
which  they  themselves  have  control.  For  this  reason  these  latter  are 
not  found  in  the  above  enumeration. 

The  morning  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

3  p.m. 

After  the  Synod  had  been  opened  with  prayer  the  committees  pre- 
sented their  reports,  from  which  it  appeared  that 

No.  1  was  a  communication  to  the  Synod  from  Pastor  Kurz.  In  it  he 
laments  his  absence — gives  to  the  Synod  a  report  concerning  those 
matters  which  had  come  up  during  his  term  of  office  as  President  of  the 
previous  year — heartily  recommends  that  the  "  Evangelisches  Maga- 
zin "  be  continued  because  he  is  convinced  that  the  work  serves  a 
necessary  purpose,  and  concludes  with  the  wish  that  the  Lord  may 
guide  the  Synod  by  His  Spirit  and  bless  all  their  undertakings  to  the 
praise  of  his  name  and  to  the  good  of  His  church. 


452  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

No.  2  was  a  sermon  from  Pastor  Plitt,  from  which  it  is  evident 
that  he  had  not  only  left  his  congregations  in  and  about  New  Holland, 
but  has  also  for  this  time  given  up  the  ministerial  office. 

No.  3  contained  a  petition  from  Mr.  Sackman  asking  permission  to 
celebrate  the  Holy  Communion  in  McConnelstown. 

The  Synod  gladly  consented  to  this. 

No.  4  contained  various  communications  from  the  State  of  Ohio, 
namely  : 

a.)  A  report  from  a  special  conference  which  had  been  held  in  Fair- 
field County,  October,  1812,  signed  by  Pastors  Henkel  and  Stauch,  in 
which  they,  together  with  others,  petition  for  a  license  for  Mr.  Samuel 
Mau.  They  certify  that  he  has  heartily  repented  of  the  wrong  he 
committed  in  leaving  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church,  and  express 
the  firm  hope  that  in  the  future  he  will  be  useful  and  profitable  to  the 
church  of  God. 

Since  this  is  a  matter  for  the  Ministerium  it  was  decided  to  postpone 
it  until  then. 

b.)  Also  a  call  from  Zion's  congregation  in  Tarn  Township  for  Mr. 
Leist  as  their  preacher. 

This  was  granted  said  congregation  on  condition  that  they  are  not 
already  in  connection  with  any  other  preacher. 

c.)  Further,  a  letter  from  Pastor  Forster  in  which  he  maintains  his 
innocence  with  reference  to  several  complaints  brought  up  against  him 
at  last  year's  meeting  of  Synod,  and  at  the  same  time  also  complains 
against  Mr.  Leist  that  he  is  forcing  himself  into  his  congregations. 
Along  with  this  there  was  a  favorable  testimonial  for  Mr.  Forster  from 
Mr.  J.  Ziegler. 

d.)  Lastly,  this  number  also  contained  a  report  of  a  special  confer- 
ence held  in  May,  1813,  when,  among  other  matters,  the  dispute  be- 
tween Mr.  Forster  and  Mr.  Leist  concerning  Ziegler's  church  in  Fair- 
field County  was  settled,  and  to  this  effect :  that  the  special  conference 
deems  it  best  for  Mr.  Forster  to  give  up  the  congregation,  and  Mr. 
Leist  to  take  charge  of  the  same. 

With  reference  to  this  point  it  was  moved  and  carried  that  the  Synod 
concur  with  the  decision  of  the  Ohio  Special  Conference. 

No.  5  contained  a  request  from  St.  John's  congregation  in  Ly kens- 
thai,  for  permission  to  have  some  neighboring  preacher  visit  them  to 
preach  to  them  since  the  congregation  throughout  is  unwilling  to  con- 
nect itself  with  the  preacher  who  serves  the  seven  other  congregations 
formerly  united  with  it. 

Also  a  letter  from  Jacob  Schwab,  in  which  he  gives  a  favorable  testi- 
monial to  the  preacher  of  the  seven  congregations,  and  expresses  the 


SIXTY-SIXTH   CONVENTION,   1813.  453 

wish  that  he  might  serve  St.  John's  congregation  also.  Further,  also  a 
letter  from  Mr.  Hemping  to  the  President,  in  which  he  depicts  the  con- 
dition of  his  congregation. 

( Joncerning  this  point,  it  was  moved  that  St.  John's  congregation  be 
advised  to  unite  with  the  seven  other  congregations  in  a  friendly  and 
Christian  manner,  and  in  the  spirit  of  love  to  receive  and  accept  Mr. 
Hemping  as  their  common  pastor. 

This  motion  was  recorded  and  carried. 

No.  6  contained  letters  from  Pastor  Ilgen,  Mr.  Dunn  and  Mr  Cramer. 

Pastor  Ilgen  excuses  himself  for  his  non-appearance  at  Synod,  trans- 
mits the  lists  of  his  baptized,  etc,  and  desires  that  the  "  Magazine  " 
shall  be  sent  to  him  by  post  to  Aaronsburg. 

Mr.  Dunn  excuses  himself  for  his  absence,  and  informs  the  Synod, 
that  on  account  of  his  weak  condition,  he  has  for  some  time  been  unable 
to  perform  the  duties  of  his  office. 

Mr.  Cramer  humbly  prays  for  the  renewal  of  his  license.  The  com- 
mittee was  of  the  opinion  that  the  matter  of  Mr.  Cramer  should  be 
weighed  and  decided  in  the  Ministerium — in  this  Synod  concurred. 

No.  7  contained  letters  of  excuse  from  Pastors  Rothrauf,  Flohr  and 
Steck,  in  which  they  express  their  best  wishes  for  the  divine  blessing 
upon  the  transaction  of  the  business  at  hand.  In  addition  they  trans- 
mit their  lists  of  baptized,  etc.,  which  are  entered  at  their  proper  place. 

No.  8  was  a  request  of  the  congregation  in  and  about  Mendville, 
Crawford  County,  in  Pennsylvania,  for  a  preacher  They  present  their 
doleful  condition  in  which  they  find  themselves  in  that  they  must  live 
without  preaching,  without  baptism,  catechetical  instruction,  confirma- 
tion and  communion,  and  beg  that  they  may  be  cheered  and  cpiickened, 
at  least  by  an  occasional  sermon. 

The  Synod  heartily  deplored  that  they  were  without  the  precious 
pasture  of  the  Gospel,  and  determined  to  care  for  this  district,  by  send- 
ing a  traveling  preacher  thither. 

No.  1)  was  a  letter  from  Winchester,  Va.,  in  which  the  congregation 
expresses  its  satisfaction  with  its  preacher,  Mr.  Reck. 

No  10  contained  a  call  from  four  congregations,  located  in  Luzerne 
and  Northumberland  Counties,  Pennsylvania,  in  which  they  state  that 
they  have  received  Mr.  J.  Ernst  Ludwig  Braunsius  as  their  pastor,  and 
ask  for  his  reception  into  the  Ministerium.  Enclosed  was  a  favorable 
testimonial  from  Pastor  Geisenhainer,  Br.,  in  behalf  of  said  Braunsius. 
But  since  the  reception  of  an  applicant  belongs  to  the  Ministerium,  this 
matter  could  not  be  dispatched  at  this  time;  nevertheless  so  much  was 
decided,  that  if  Mr.  Braunsius  would  pass  the  examination,  there  should 
be  no  hesitation  in  granting  the  request. 


454  DOCUMENTARY    HISTORY. 

No.  11  contains  a  request  from  the  congregations  called  Bergstrasser, 
Muddy  Creek,  Allegheny,  Forrest  and  Schwamm  congregations,  which 
heretofore  were  served  by  Pastor  Plitt,  and  were  connected  with  New 
Holland,  to  have  Mr.  Filbert  as  their  preacher. 

Resolved,  That  this  request  be  granted,  provided  Mr.  Filbert  pass 
the  examination.  Also  a  request  from  the  Strassburg  congregation 
(which  heretofore  was  also  connected  with  the  above-named  congrega- 
gations),  to  have  Applicant  Probst  as  their  preacher.  They  also  express 
the  desire  that  the  preacher  continue  to  reside  at  New  Holland. 

This  also,  was  referred  to  the  Ministerium. 

No.  12.  A  letter  of  excuse  from  Mr.  Riemenschneider,  also  a  favor- 
able testimonial  from  the  Hummelstown  congregation  for  Mr.  Vanhoff, 
and  an  expression  of  thanks  from  several  congregations  in  the  State  of 
Ohio,  for  sending  Mr.  Huet  to  serve  as  pastor  in  their  congregations. 

In  connection  with  this  last  letter,  gratification  was  expressed  at  the 
present  condition  of  the  congregations  in  the  State  of  Ohio,  and  at  the 
great  benefit  derived  from  the  institution  for  the  sending  out  of  travel- 
ing preachers.  Before  this  arrangement  was  made,  we  had  as  yet  no  col- 
lected congregations  and  no  regular  pastor3  in  that  state ;  but  now 
through  the  efforts  of  these  worthy  men  who  went  out  as  traveling 
preachers,  many,  and,  in  part,  quite  flourishing  congregations  have  been 
gathered,  so  that  already  six  to  eight  pastors  located  there,  find  work 
enough.  What  a  satisfaction  must  it  therefore  be  to  the  supporters  of 
the  institution  of  traveling  preachers,  that  through  their  contributions 
they  have  furthered  so  good  a  work  !  And  how  many  souls  may  be  won 
through  that  institution,  who  will  thank  them  in  eternity  for  their 
interest ! 

Here  unfortunately  a  grievous  complaint  came  up  against  Candidate 
Weiand  concerning  the  breach  of  a  promise  of  marriage,  and  Pastors 
Schmucker,  Endress  and  Muhlenberg,  Jr.,  together  with  Deputies 
Lange,  Rex  and  Heiszley  were  named  as  a  committee  to  investigate  the 
matter,  and  to  report  on  the  same. 

No.  13  was  a  letter  from  three  congregations  in  the  State  of  Ohio, 
in  which  several  complaints  are  made  against  their  pastor,  Mr.  Simon, 
in  which  he  is  accused  of  not  abiding  by  the  old  Lutheran  form  of  doc- 
trine. Moved  and  recorded  that  this  be  postponed  until  the  Minis- 
terium. 

No.  14.  A  letter  of  Pastor  Rebenach,  in  which  he  sets  forth  the  con- 
dition of  his  congregations,  and  expresses  his  satisfaction  with  many 
things  in  the  same,  but  his  dissatisfaction  with  others. 

Synod  heard  these  reports  with  interest,  and  heartily  desired  for  Mr. 
Rebenach  the  blessing  of  God  upon  the  labors  of  his  office. 


SIXTY-SIXTH  CONVENTION,   1813.  455 

No.  15  contained  a  call  to  Mr.  Jacob  Schnee  from  the  congregation 
at  Pittsburg. 

Concerning  this  it  was  decided  that  this  congregation  be  given  into 
the  care  of  Mr.  Schnee,  provided  he  pass  the  examination. 

No.  16.  A  report  of  a  Special  Conference  held  in  Vvrashington 
County,  in  Pennsylvania,  in  the  month  of  December,  1812.  It  was  a 
matter  of  real  gratification  to  the  Synod  to  see  that  our  brethren  on  the 
frontier  show  themselves  so  active  in  the  spread  of  the  kingdom  of  God. 

No.  17.  A  call  from  congregations  in  Somerset,  Samuelis,  Berlin, 
Stoyestown,  Gebhardts  and  Sanders  to  Mr.  Ernst  H.  Tiedeman,  with 
the  information  that  they  have  received  Mr.  Tiedeman  as  pastor,  and 
desire  that  he  may  be  confirmed  by  the  Synod  as  their  future  pastor. 

Decided  that  a  license  for  said  congregations  be  given  to  Mr.  Tiede- 
man. 

No.  18.  A  call  from  two  congregations  in  York  County,  namely, 
Jerusalem  and  Johannis  Church,  to  Mr.  Herbst,  Jr  ,  who  is  serving 
other  congregations  in  the  neighborhood. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Herbst,  Jr.,  be  permitted  to  serve  these  congre- 
gations in  addition  to  his  others. 

No.  19  was  a  letter  of  excuse  from  Mr.  N.  Schmucker,  with  a  list  of 
his  baptized,  etc. 

Nos.  20,  21,  22,  23  contained  favorable  testimonials  for  Messrs.  Schin- 
del,  C.  Schafer,  Engel  and  Heim,  from  their  respective  congregations, 
and  the  earnest  desire  to  retain  said  gentlemen  as  their  preachers. 

No.  24  was  a  communication  from  a  part  of  a  congregation  in  Rye 
Township,  Cumberland  County,  reporting  that  they  have  accepted  Mr. 
J.  Preissler  as  their  pastor,  and  therefore  ask  that  he  may  be  received 
and  admitted  as  a  member  of  the  Ministerium. 

This  was  referred  to  the  Ministerium. 

No.  25  contained  a  letter  from  the  Church  Council  of  Christ  Church 
in  Tulpehocken,  in  which  they  desire  that  Mr.  Ullrich  be  permitted  to 
serve  their  own,  in  addition  to  his  other  congregations. 

Jloolved,  That  this  request  be  granted. 

N<>.  26  was  a  letter  from  Frederick  Schmidt,  Esq.,  with  a  contri- 
bution of  the  first  two  volumes  of  the  "Magazine,"  handsomely  bound 
in  morocco,  which  he  transmitted  as  a  gift  to  the  Synod,  through  Pastor 
Muhlenberg,  Jr.  In  the  letter  he  expresses  the  wish  that  the  said  two 
volumes  may  be  preserved  in  the  archives  of  the  Ministerium,  as  a 
token  of  the  high  regard  which  he  entertains  for  the  Synod,  and  for 
■his  deceased  father.  He  also  desires  that  the  "Magazine"  may  be 
continued. 

Concerning  this  it  was  resolved,  that  the  Synod  gratefully  accept  this 


456  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

gift,  and  that  the  Secretary  be  instructed  to  convey  to  Mr.  Schmidt,  in 
the  name  of  the  Synod,  hearty  thanks  for  the  eame. 

No.  27  contained  the  Protocol  of  a  Special  Conference  held  in 
Allentown,  in  the  fall  of  1812,  at  which  time  the  members  mutually 
edified  one  another,  and  made  several  necessary  regulations  for  their 
congregations. 

On  motion  of  the  Treasurer  of  the  previous  year,  a  committee  was 
appointed  to  audit  his  last  year's  accounts,  and  to  make  a  report  on 
the  same  the  next  morning.  The  committee  consisted  of  Messrs.  Ja- 
sinsky,  D.  Schafer  and  C.  Haas. 

Closed  with  prayer. 

In  the  evening  Pastor  Jager  preached. 

Tuesday,  9  a.m. 

After  the  session  had  been  opened  with  prayer,  the  President  put  this 
question,  Whether  any  of  the  preachers  or  deputies  present  had  any- 
thing more  to  present?  Upon  this,  the  deputy  from  St.  John's  con- 
gregation in  Lykensthal  came  forward  and  urged  a  change  of  the  de- 
cision which  had  been  made  under  No.  5,  with  reference  to  his  congre- 
gation. He  stated  that  the  congregation  could  not  be  induced  to  carry 
out  the  decision,  because  the  dissatisfaction  was  too  great,  and  desired 
that  they,  as  free  people,  might  eo  much  as  have  the  right,  according 
to  their  wishes,  to  receive  preachers  in  their  church,  upon  a  visit,  at 
least.  Hereupon  Mr.  Hemping  voluntarily  came  forward  and  an- 
nounced that,  for  the  sake  of  peace,  he  would  give  up  St.  John's  con- 
gregation in  so  far  that  they  might  invite  any  other  neighboring  preacher 
of  the  Ministerium  to  preach  in  their  church,  upon  a  visit ;  but  that  he 
reserves  for  himself  the  right  to  preach  in  the  same  at  funerals  and  on 
other  occasions,  whenever  he  shall  be  asked  for.  With  this  the  Synod, 
as  well  as  the  deputy,  was  satisfied. 

Upon  information  that  the  High-German  Reformed  Synod  had  re- 
solved, at  their  session  lately  held  in  Frederickstadt,  to  keep  the  first 
Thursday  of  next  August  as  a  day  of  repentance  and  thanksgiving  in 
all  their  congregations,  Rev.  Mr.  Pauli,  of  Reading,  came  forward,  and 
informed  the  Synod  that  he  was  appointed  by  the  Reformed  Synod  to 
express  the  wish  before  the  venerable  German  Evangelical  Lutheran 
Synod  that  they  might  concur  with  them,  and  appoint  the  same  day  as 
a  duy  of  repentance  and  prayer. 

After  a  short  and  fraternal  discussion,  the  following  resolution  was 
framed  and  adopted  :  Resolved,  That  the  German  Evangelical  Lutheran 
Synod  is  ready  and  willing  to  keep  the  first  Thursday  of  next  August 
as  a  day  of  repentance  and  thanksgiving  in  all  their  congregations, 


SIXTY-SIXTH  CONVENTION,   1813.  457 

provided  no  other  day  be  set  apart  for  this  purpose  by  the  President  of 
the  United  States,  or  the  Governor  of  this  Commonwealth. 

The  committee  which  was  appointed  to  investigate  the  charge  against 
Mr.  Weiandt  presented  the  following  report : 

The  committee,  pursuant  to  the  instructions  of  the  Synod,  instituted 
an  investigation  of  this  matter,  read  the  letters  which  were  placed  in  its 
hands,  heard  the  defence  of  the  accused  and  conferred  with  the  man 
who  made  the  charge.  The  committee  finds  that  Mr.  AVeiandt  has 
given  and  has  broken  a  promise  of  marriage,  and  that  in  an  unprin- 
cipled manner,  and  without  being  able  to  give  a  well-founded  reason 
for  the  same. 

The  committee  has  the  most  decided  abhorrence  of  such  an  unprin- 
cipled and  cruel  act,  and  regards  it  as  highly  reprehensible.  It  would* 
therefore,  recommend  to  the  Synod,  in  this  case,  nothing  short  of 
suspension  or  expulsion.  But  it  calls  to  mind,  with  deep  sorrow,  that 
this  is  not  the  first  instance  of  this  sort  which  has  happened  among  us, 
and  that  this  rigorous  discipline  was  not  exercised  in  the  other  cases. 
The  committee,  therefore,  fears  that  the  former  leniency  of  the  Synod 
has  had  an  influence  upon  the  mind  of  this  young  man,  so  as  to  weaken 
his  abhorrence  of  such  an  act,  and  sees  no  reason  why  he  in  particular 
should  be  singled  out  to  be  made  an  example  of  and  to  be  punished 
with  the  greatest  severity. 

The  committee  would,  therefore,  recommend  the  following  : 

1.  That  the  Senior,  publicly,  before  the  whole  Synod,  censure  and 
admonish  Mr.  Wieandt  because  of  his  conduct. 

2.  That  the  Synod  pass  an  admonitory  resolution,  according  to  which 
each  one  may  know  in  advance,  by  what  consequences  such  conduct 
among  us  will  be  followed. 

This  report  was  unanimously  adopted,  and  the  following  resolution 
was  at  once  drawn  up  : 

Heso/ird,  That  if  in  the  future  a  member  of  our  Ministerium  be  guilty 
of  such  an  act  (from  which  may  God  in  mercy  preserve  us),  and  the 
same  be  satisfactorily  proved  before  the  Synod,  he  shall  no  longer  be 
regarded  as  a  member  of  our  organization. 

Thia  resolution  was  unanimously  adopted. 

The  committee  which  had  been  appointed  to  audit  the  accounts  of  the 
Treasurer,  handed  in  the  following  report : 

The  accounts  of  Pastor  Loch  in  an,  with  reference  to  the  Synodical 
Treasury,  have  been  found  perfectly  correct.  The  total  income  was 
8726.72',  and  the  expenditures,  for  which  he  has  receipts  to  show, 
amounted  to  $243.33,  consequently  there  remain  in  the  Synodical  Treas- 
ury 1 183.39 \.     At  the  same  time,  the  accounts  which  he  keeps  for  the 


458  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

"  Magazin  "  have  been  found  fully  correct.  His  total  receipts  from 
May  26,  1812,  until  June  14,  1813,  were  $613.19,  and  his  expenditures 
for  defraying  the  expenses  of  the  "  Magazin  "  amounted  to  $520.37, 
consequently  the  balance  in  this  treasury  would  be  $92.82. 

The  above  amounts  were  handed  over  to  the  new  Treasurer. 

The  contributions  of  the  various  congregations  were  now  handed  in, 
and  the  members  paid  to  the  Treasurer  the  money  which  they  had  re- 
ceived for  the  "  Magazin." 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

Tuesday,  3  p.m. 

After  the  prayer,  the  matter  of  the  traveling  preachers  was  taken  up. 
On  this  point  it  was  resolved, 

1.  That  Pastor  Henkle  again  be  our  traveling  preacher  for  this  year, 
during  four  months  in  such  regions  as  he  himself  may  consider  the  most 
suitable  and  needy. 

2.  That  Mr.  Sackman  also  be  appointed  traveling  preacher,  to  visit 
the  regions  in  and  about  Meadville,  Pennsylvania,  during  two  months, 
and  that  he  have  permission  to  take  charge  of  said  congregations,  if 
they  call  him  ;  also  that  thirty  dollars  be  paid  him  in  advance. 

With  reference  to  the  appropriation  of  the  Synodical  moneys,  it  was 
resolved, 

1.  That  to  four  young  students  fifty  dollars  each  be  appropriated  as 
a  loan,  to  aid  them  in  pursuing  their  studies. 

2.  That  to  our  five  poor  preachers'  widows  twenty  dollars  each  be 
allowed  out  of  the  Synodical  Treasury  for  this  year.  N.  B. — Besides 
this,  nine  dollars  of  the  legacy,  which  is  divided  in  the  Ministerium, 
were  granted  to  each  widow. 

3.  That  to  three  poor  preachers  ten  dollars  each  be  given  as  a  present. 
Concerning  the  "  Evangelical  Magazine,"  the  following  arrangements 

were  made  :  That  as  formerly,  four  numbers  shall  be  published  yearly, 
under  the  supervision  of  Dr.  Helmuth,  that  each  preacher  shall  indicate 
the  place  to  which  his  number  of  magazines  shall  be  sent ;  that  he  shall 
have  supervision  of  the  rate  of  the  sale  of  the  same  and  render  a  yearly 
account  thereof  to  the  Synod,  and  finally,  that  hereafter  thirteen  copies 
shall  be  regarded  as  one  dozen,  so  that  the  seller  may  have  the  thir- 
teenth copy  free  of  charge. 

As  there  was  no  more  Synodical  business  to  be  transacted,  a  vote  was 
about  to  be  taken  to  decide  upon  the  time  and  place  of  next  year's 
Synodical  Meeting.  But  in  this  connection  the  motion  was  made  that 
the  old  Synodical  resolution  (according  to  which  the  Synod  could  be 
held  west  of  the  Susquehanna  only  every  third  year)  be  recalled,  so  that 


SIXTY-SIXTH  CONVENTION,  1813.  459 

every  year  the  majority  might  remain  free  to  decide  upon  any  suitable 
place.  This  motion  was  seconded,  and  after  careful  deliberation,  was 
carried. 

Thereupon  the  time  and  place  of  next  year's  session  was  determined 
by  ballot,  namely  :  The  time,  the  Trinity  Sunday,  and  the  place,  Easton. 

And  now  the  preachers  and  the  delegates  as  well,  bent  their  knees 
before  the  Lord  and  commended  themselves  and  the  congregations  en- 
trusted to  them  into  His  further  care.  They  sang  several  appropriate 
stanzas  and  the  deputies  were  dismissed  with  hearty  good  wishes. 


MINISTERIAL  MEETING. 


"Wednesday,  9  a.m.,  June  16th. 

The  President  opened  this  session  with  an  earnest  prayer. 

It  was  moved  that  Pastor  Meyer,  formerly  ordained  by  the  New  York 
Ministerium,  and  living  for  the  last  five  years  in  Bern  Township,  Berks 
County,  and  against  whose  life  and  teaching  no  objections  can  be  made, 
be  received  as  a  member  of  our  Ministerium. 

This  motion  was  recorded  and  unanimously  carried. 

The  hand  of  fellowship  was  extended  to  Mr.  Meyer. 

According  to  the  order  of  business,  the  matter  of  the  Applicants  was 
taken  up,  and  committees  were  appointed  to  examine  the  same. 

The  candidates  handed  in  their  diaries,  sermons  and  licenses,  and 
committees  were  appointed  to  examine  the  same. 

At  the  app< tinted  hour,  these  committees  presented  their  reports,  in 
which  Messrs.  Filbert,  Schnee  and  Braunsius  were  recommended  as  can- 
didates, and  Mr.  Probst  as  catechist. 

It  was  also  noted  with  pleasure,  that  the  papers  of  the  candidates 
were  all  worked  out  in  such  a  manner  that  their  licenses  could  be  re- 
newed with  a  good  conscience.  And  yet,  it  was  observed,  and  that  with 
grent  regret,  that  several,  but  nevertheless  only  a  very  few,  had  not 
sufficiently  seasoned  their  deliverances  with  the  spirit  of  true  Evangeli- 
cal Christianity.  And  for  this  reason,  it  was  resolved,  that  the  Presi- 
dent should  give  such  candidates  a  fatherly  reminder  in  this  respect. 

3  p.m. 

After  prayer  those  points  were  taken  up  which  had  been  referred  to 
the  Ministerium. 


460  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

With  reference  to  Mr.  Mau,  who  had  been  recommended  for  re- 
admission  into  the  Ministerium,  according  to  No.  4,  by  Pastors  Henkel 
and  Stauch,  it  was  resolved,  that  the  Ministerium  allow  him  a  license 
for  such  congregations  in  Kentucky,  as  the  ordained  members  of  the 
State  of  Ohio  shall  assign  to  him. 

Concerning  Mr.  Cramer,  whose  petition,  No.  6,  came  up,  it  was  de- 
cided that  the  Ministerium  abide  by  its  last  year's  resolution,  and 
cannot  have  anything  to  do  with  him  this  jear  as  yet. 

To  the  question,  shall  Applicants  Filbert,  Schnee  and  Braunsius  re- 
ceive licenses,  to  serve  as  candidates  in  their  respective  congregations 
which  have  called  them — a  unanimous  "yea  "  was  given.  See  Nos.  10, 
11  and  14. 

With  reference  to  Mr.  Probst,  it  was  resolved,  that  as  a  catechist,  he 
shall  be  under  the  supervision  of  Dr.  Muhlenberg,  and  shall  perform 
the  duties  of  the  office  in  the  congregation,  at  Strasburg.    See  No.  10. 

Concerning  the  complaint  of  the  three  congregations  in  the  State  of 
Ohio,  against  their  pastor  (No.  13),  the  following  was  resolved :  That 
Pastor  Lochman,  in  the  name  of  the  Ministerium,  should  hold  up  before 
him,  in  the  spirit  of  love,  the  complaints  brought  against  him,  and  fra- 
ternally admonish  him,  not  only  to  conduct  himself  more  circumspectly, 
but  also  to  abide  by  the  pure  old  form  of  doctrine,  and  to  make  no 
innovations,  or  there  would  be  hesitation  about  renewing  his  license  in 
the  future, 

With  reference  to  Mr.  Preiszler  (No.  24),  it  was  resolved  that  the 
Ministerium  can  have  nothing  to  do  with  him  for  the  present,  and  that 
the  President  in  the  name  of  the  Ministerium  fraternally  exhort  him  to 
abandon  the  ministry  of  the  Word. 

The  licenses  of  the  candidates  were  then  filled  ,out  by  the  officers,  and 
the  President  handed  them  to  the  respective  parties,  after  he  had  first 
solemnly  read  their  duties  to  them,  and  they  by  word  of  mouth,  and  the 
joining  of  hands,  had  promised  before  God,  faithfully  to  perform  them 
as  evangelical  pastors. 

Finally  all  the  members  present  bent  their  knees — committed  them- 
selves and  the  congregations  in  their  charge  to  the  further  care  of  their 
Good  Shepherd — prayed  for  the  forgiveness  of  their  former  unfaithful- 
ness— made  the  firm  resolution  to  work  on  in  His  service  with  renewed 
earnestness — and  closed  with  an  appropriate  hymn.  Adjourned  until 
Trinity  Sunday,  1814. 

Daniel  Kurtz, 

President. 

Geo.  Lochman, 

Secretary. 


SIXTY-SEVENTH  CONVENTION. 

1814. 


SYNODICAL  MEETING. 
Held  at  Easton,  June  5,  G,  7  and  8,  1814. 

On  Sunday  morning  the  preachers  and  delegates  met  with  the  Senior 
of  the  Ministerium,  and  went  with  him  in  procession  to  the  church. 
In  the  morning  Senior  Helmuth  preached  on  Jer.  1  :  6,  7. 
In  the  afternoon  Pastor  Lochman  preached  on  II  Cor.  9 :  2. 
Iu  the  evening  Mr.  Herbst,  Jr.,  preached  on  Luke  15 :  18. 
On  Saturday  evening  Mr.  Hecht  had  preached. 

Monday,  9  a.m. 

The  preachers  and  delegates  assembled  in  the  church. 

The  Senior  opened  the  session  with  an  earnest  prayer,  and  the  stanza,1 
"Sprich  ja  zu  unsern  Thaten,  u.  s.  w.,"  was  sung. 

As  the  President  was  absent  on  account  of  indisposition,  the  Senior 
took  the  chair. 

The  roll  of  members  was  called,  and  the  following  answered  to  their 
names : 

1.  Dr.  Helmuth Philadelphia. 

2.  Pastor  Kurz Baltimore. 

3.  "  Schafer,  Sr Philadelphia. 

4.  "  Jager Allentown. 

5.  "  Sch  mucker Yorktown. 

6.  "  Lochman Lebanon 

7.  "  Muhlenberg,  Jr. .   .    .  Reading. 

8.  "  Henr.  Geisseuheiner  .  Trappe. 

9.  "  Knoske Kutztown 

10.  "       Walter Mittelburg 

11.  "       Mensch Springfield. 

12.  "       Heine Magunschy. 

1  Eighth  stanza  of  Paul  Gerhardt's  hymn,  "  Wach  auf  mein  Herz  und  singe 
"  My  soul  awake  and  tender." 

461 


462  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Candidates. 

13.  Mr.  Scriba 

14.  "  Sol.  Schafer Hagerstown 

15.  "  Hecht Carlisle. 

16.  "  Miller Goshenhoppen. 

17.  "  Heim Buffalo. 

18.  "  Ulrich Tulpehocken. 

19.  "  Batis Warwick. 

20.  "  Osterloh Cumberland  County. 

21.  "  Vanhoff Jonestown. 

22.  "  Engel Bloomsburg. 

23.  "  Meendsen Northampton  County. 

24.  "  Ernst Marietta,  Lancaster. 

25.  "  Colson Mount  Bethel. 

26.  "  Becker Germantown. 

27.  "  Mennig Pinegrove 

28.  "  Weiant Whitpain. 

29.  "  Hemping Lykens  Valley. 

30.  "  Schindel       Sunbury. 

31.  «  F.  C.  Schafer Harrisburg. 

32.  "  Herbst,  Jr York  County. 

33.  "  Filbert New  Holland. 

34.  "  Schnee Pittsburg. 

35.  "  Braunsius Pottsgrove. 

36.  "  Probst Strasburg. 

37.  "  Doring 

38.  "  Wartman 

39.  "  [Charles  A.]  Morris    .    . 

According  to  this,  there  were  39  preachers  present,  and  42  absent. 
Delegates  from  the  various  congregations,  who  presented  written  cre- 
dentials were  : 


1.  Mr.  Heinrich  Lehr.  , 

2.  "  Andreas  Busch  , 

3.  "  Joh.  Mackenheimer 

4.  "  Andreas  Appel  , 

5.  "  Conrad  Reinol  , 

6.  "  Peter  Stichter  .  , 

7.  "  Michael  Kroll  , 

8.  "  Peter  Kessler  . 

9.  "  Peter  Lang  .    .  . 


[•  Philadelphia. 

.  Baltimore. 
.  Allentown. 
.  Lebanon. 
.  Reading. 
.  Kutztown. 
.  Mittelburg. 
.  Springfield. 


SIXTY-SEVENTH  CONVENTION,  1814.  4G3 

10.  Mr.  Peter  Blaser Carlisle. 

11.  "  Jacob  Schafer Tulpehocken. 

12.  "  Peter  Elser Warwick. 

13.  "  Adam  Dreher Bloomsburg. 

14.  "  Jacob  Kuuz Northampton. 

15.  "  Ludwig  Lieder    ....  Marietta. 

16.  "  Hcnr.  Heffert  ....  Mount  Bethel. 

17.  "  Joh.  Duy Germantown. 

18.  "  Daniel  Kerchner    .    .    .  Pinegrove. 

19.  "  Mich.  Hartman  ....  Whitpain. 

20.  "  Daniel  Stein Harrisburg. 

21.  "  Andreas  Fleischer  .    .    .  New  Holland. 

22.  "  Stauch    ....  Western  District. 

23.  "  Jacob  Schanz 

This  time,  therefore,  the  Synod  was  composed  of  62  members.  Ac- 
cording to  the  order  of  business,  the  election  of  officers  was  taken  up, 
and  after  the  vote  had  been  gathered  and  counted,  it  appeared  that  the 
following  pastors  were  elected  for  one  year : 

Pastor  Kurz,  President, 

Pastor  Lochman,  Secretary,  and 

Pastor  Schiifer,  Sr.,  Treasurer. 

After  the  officers  had  taken  their  seats,  the  communications  to  the 
Synod  were  handed  over  to  the  President  and  numbered. 

Upon  motion  it  wras  resolved  that  four  committees  be  appointed  to 
examine  said  communications,  and  to  make  a  report  upon  the  contents 
of  the  same  during  the  afternoon.  Two  pastors,  two  candidates  and 
two  delegates  were  appointed  on  each  committee. 

According  to  the  order  of  business,  the  Protocol  of  last  year's  Syn- 
odical  Meeting  should  have  been  read  at  this  point ;  but,  as  it  was 
taken  for  granted  that  each  one  had  already  read  the  same  in  the 
"  Magazin,"  it  was  dispensed  with  for  this  time. 

The  lists  of  baptized,  confirmed,  communicants,  buried  and  schools 
were  handed  in : 


Bap- 

Con- 

Commu- 

De- 

tized. 

firmed. 

nicauts. 

ceased. 

Schools. 

Mr. 
ii 

Helmuth  .  .  .    ) 
Bchaffer.  .  .  .   i 

308 

41 

839 

98 

5 

it 

Muhlenberg,  Sr.  . 

158 

68 

462 

33 

1 

u 

128 

41 

301 

60 

1 

ii 

109 

56 

414 

19 

4 

u 

Schmucker.  .  .  . 

193 

105 

564 

39 

5 

464 


DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 


Bap- 

Con- 

Commu- 

De- 

tized. 

firmed. 

nicants. 

ceased. 

Schools. 

kfr 

Lochrnan .  .  . 

.  .     149 

40 

525 

39 

5 

u 

Muhlenberg,  J 

r.  .     175 

70 

537 

36 

2 

tt 

Jasinsky  .  .  . 

.  .       43 

28 

176 

16 

1 

it 

Ugen 

.  .     146 

— 

444 

22 

6 

« 

Herbst,  Sr.  .  . 

.  .     195 

65 

390 

26 

2 

tt 

Moller   .... 

.  .     115 

46 

272 

26 

2 

tt 

Buttler  .... 

.  .       24 

— 

90 

5 

— 

ee 

Steck 

.  .     254 

17 

327 

27 

4 

tt 

Knoske .... 

.  .     228 

92 

1181 

68 

6 

tt 

Walter  .... 

.  .     251 

144 

852 

32 

8 

« 

Mensch .... 

.  .     100 

24 

276 

17 

4 

<< 

D.  Schaffer    . 

.  .     198 

103 

681 

45 

1 

<. 

Heine    .... 

.  .     108 

26 

593 

23 

3 

«i 

Scriba    .... 

.  .       20 

— 

— 

1 

— 

« 

Kessler  .... 

.  .      48 

10 

97 

15 

— 

ft 

S.  Schaffer  .  . 

.  .     127 

52 

487 

26 

3 

it 

Miller 

.  .     123 

71 

793 

26 

4 

" 

Heini 

.  .     100 

31 

156 

12 

4 

<( 

Ulrich   .... 

.  .     133 

45 

810 

33 

6 

tt 

Batis 

.  .     176 

94 

578 

34 

6 

M 

Weigandt   .  . 

.  .      65 

15 

435 

15 

2 

<i 

Osterloh   .  .  . 

.  .     100 

30 

280 

25 

4 

<< 

Vanhoff  .  .  . 

.  .     132 

40 

513 

22 

4 

<< 

Engel    .... 

.  .     143 

29 

207 

14 

1 

<< 

Sackman .  .  . 

.  .       69 

19 

84 

9 

— 

(« 

Meendsen   .  . 

.  .     120 

27 

571 

39 

4 

« 

Ernst 

.  .       82 

— 

128 

13 

3 

tt 

Colson  .... 

.  .     125 

19 

245 

18 

4 

it 

Becker  .... 

.  .      73 

61 

200 

57 

1 

ft 

Mennig    .  .  . 

.  .     151 

49 

541 

22 

5 

tt 

Tiedeman    .  . 

.  .      61 

119 

257 

— 

— 

ti 

Rudisill    .  .  . 

.  .      60 

— 

337 

12 

3 

n 

Weiandt  .  .  . 

.  .      47 

38 

280 

18 

— 

it 

Hemping .  .  . 

,  .     202 

78 

624 

15 

5 

n 

Schindel  .  .  . 

.  .     105 

— 

406 

21 

4 

tt 

F.  C.  Schaffer 

.  .     144 

71 

380 

21 

2 

n 

J.  Herbst,  Jr. 

.  .     140 

32 

265 

24 

4 

tt 

Huet 

.  .      61 

18 

54 

— 

— 

n 

Filbert  .... 

,  .      88 

73 

520 

21 

3 

ti 

Schnee .  .  .  , 

.  .       97 

59 

155 

15 

4 

" 

Braunsius    .  . 

.  .     107 

44 

163 

6 

1 

« 

Probst    .  .  ,  . 

.  .       18 

— 

— 

7 

— 

it 

Doring  .... 

|       62 

57 

465 

10 

3 

ft 

Wartman .  .  . 

Closed  with  prayer. 


SIXTY-SEVENTH   CONVENTION,  1814.  405 

3    P.M. 

An  earnest  prayer  for  the  guidance  of  the  good  Spirit  opened  this 
session. 

The  committees  presented  their  reports,  according  to  which  it  was 
noticed  with  pleasure  that  not  a  single  complaint  was  made  against  any 
preacher,  but  rather  that  many  communications  had  come  in,  which 
evinced  entire  satisfaction  with  the  pastors  and  showed  that  the  work 
of  the  Lord  was  prospering  under  their  care.  Especially  was  it  a  cause 
of  heartfelt  joy  for  the  Synod  to  find  that  in  many  regions  unbaptized 
and  otherwise  indifferent  young  men  and  young  women  had  aroused 
themselves  and  publicly,  through  baptism,  had  sworn  allegiance  to  the 
standard  of  Jesus. 

It  was  also  found  that  all  the  absent  preachers  had  presented  their 
excuses,  either  in  writing,  or  verbally  through  others,  and  desired  for 
the  Synod  the  blessing  of  God  upon  its  transactions. 

The  following  communications  were  handed  in,  which  demand  of 
the  Synod  closer  consideration  : 

No.  1.  A  letter  from  Dr.  Muhlenberg,  in  which  he  laments  his  ab- 
sence, occasioned  by  his  feeble  condition,  reports  to  the  Synod  on  those 
matters  which  had  come  up  within  the  sphere  of  his  office  as  President 
of  the  previous  year,  and  recommends  Messrs.  Probst  and  Strein  as 
worthy  candidates  for  the  ministry. 

No.  2.  A  letter  from  Pastor  Carpenter,  in  which  he  announces  that, 
after  much  fighting,  he  has  left  his  congregation  in  Culpepper,  and  has 
taken  charge  of  other  congregations  in  Kentucky. 

He  asks  that  the  Ministeriura  provide  for  his  now  vacant  congregation. 

Resolved,  That  an  extract  from  this  highly  instructive  letter  be 
printed  in  the  "  Magazine." 

No.  3.  An  address  to  the  Synod,  signed  by  seventy-two  persons,  liv- 
ing in  and  about  Bardstown,  Kentucky,  anxiously  petitioning  for  an 
evangelical  pastor,  who  is  able  to  preach  in  the  English  as  well  as  the 
German  language.  They  present  their  deplorable  condition  and  prom- 
ise adequate  support  to  a  worthy  pastor. 

Upon  motion,  it  was  resolved  that  the  Synod  is  ready  and  willing  to 
advance  money  for  defraying  his  traveling  expenses  to  any  preacher  of 
our  connection  who  may  be  willing  to  visit  this  shepherdless  flock  and 
nourish  them  with  God's  Word  and  the  Holy  Sacraments. 

No  4.  A  letter  from  the  elders  and  deacons  of  Friedens'  Church, 
Northampton  County,  asking  for  a  preacher.    Ordered  that  the  congre- 
gation either  connect  itself  with  Easton  or  apply  to  Mr.  Colson  to  be 
served. 
30 


46(  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

No.  5.  Letters  from  Pastor  Henkel,  in  which  he  recounts  his  work  of 
the  previous  year  as  traveling  preacher,  and  as  well  the  condition  of  the 
German  congregations  in  Virginia,  Ohio  and  Kentucky,  and  asks  that 
a  plain  and  forcible  address  to  the  said  Germans  be  drawn  up  by  the 
officers  of  Synod  and  printed,  in  order  to  stir  them  up  to  be  more  con- 
cerned about  the  maintenance  of  the  German  schools,  the  German  ser- 
vices and  the  support  of  the  pastors. 

This  request  was  granted,  and  the  officers  were  accordingly  instructed 
to  prepare  such  an  address,  print  5000  copies  of  the  same  and  send  them 
into  the  remote  districts  (hintere  Gegenden). 

It  was  also  resolved  that  $40  be  allowed  Pastor  Henkel  from  the 
Synodical  Treasury  for  his  services  performed  as  traveling  preacher. 

No.  6.  A  letter  from  Henrich  Zink,  preacher  in  the  State  of  Tennes- 
see, and  No.  7,  a  letter  from  Pastor  Schober,  Secretary  of  the  Carolina 
Ministerium,  were  referred  to  the  Ministerial  Session. 

No.  8.  The  congregations  at  Lewistown,  Mifflin,  Tuscarora  and  Green- 
wood desire  applicant  Heim  as  preacher,  and  ask  the  Ministerium  to 
receive  him  as  candidate. 

Upon  motion  it  was  resolved  that  Mr.  Heim  be  permitted  to  take 
charge  of  these  congregations,  provided  he  pass  the  examination. 

No.  9.  Contained  a  request  from  Zion's  Church,  in  Mifflin  Township, 
Cumberland  County,  that  Mr.  Osterlo,  in  addition  to  his  other  congre- 
gations, be  permitted  to  serve  theirs  also. 

This  was  cheerfully  granted. 

No.  10.  A  letter  from  Pastor  D.  Schafer,  of  Frederichstadt,  in  which 
he  pictures  the  prosperous  condition  of  his  congregation,  and  expresses 
the  desire  to  have  the  Synod  there  next  year.  He  also  desires  to  know 
to  whom  he  shall  deliver  up  the  $30  handed  to  him  the  previous  year 
for  the  traveling  preacher,  Mr.  Sackman,  inasmuch  as  said  brother  was 
unable  to  continue  his  traveling  because  of  indisposition,  and  at  the 
same  time  he  expresses  the  desire  that  Widow  Krug  may  not  be  forgotten. 

Upon  motion  it  was  resolved  that  these  $30  be  granted  to  said  widow 
as  her  appropriation  from  the  treasury  for  this  year. 

No.  11.  Gave  report  of  a  Special  Conference  held  by  our  western 
brethren  in  Columbiana  County,  Ohio.  In  this  communication  these 
brethren  lay  the  following  questions  before  the  Synodical  Meeting : 

a.  Whether  the  Special  Conference  of  the  western  district  may  be 
permitted  to  send  but  one  preacher  and  one  delegate  from  their  number 
to  Synod,  in  order  to  represent  them  there  ? 

b.  Whether  they  themselves  may  examine  the  sermons  and  diaries  of 
their  candidates,  without  sending  the  same  to  the  Ministerium  for  ex- 
amination ? 


SIXTY-SEVENTH  CONVENTION,  1814.  467 

c.  Whether  they,  as  they  think  proper,  may  permit  their  candidates 
to  take  charge  of  congregations  and  likewise  change  the  congregations 
in  their  licenses. 

After  mature  consideration  the  first  question  was  answered  affirm- 
atively. But  the  second  was  not  consented  to,  and  in  its  stead  the  fol- 
lowing resolution  was  adopted,  viz. :  That  the  representatives  for  each 
time,  from  tlie  western  district,  shall  bring  with  them  to  the  Minister- 
ium  the  sermons  and  diaries  of  their  candidates  for  the  purpose  of  ex- 
amination.    The  third  request  was  granted. 

No.  12  was  a  communication  from  seven  congregations  in  Lyken's 
Valley,  petitioning  the  recall  of  the  resolution  of  last  year's  Synod  with 
reference  to  St.  John's  congregation,  according  to  which  said  congrega- 
tion was  given  permission  to  have  any  neighboring  preacher  of  the  Min- 
isterium  to  preach  to  them  on  a  visit,  and  asking  that  the  Synod  give 
said  congregation  a  fraternal  counsel  to  unite  with  the  seven  other  con- 
gregations. 

Upon  motion,  said  resolution  was  recalled,  and  Messrs.  Schmucker 
and  Muhlenberg,  Jr.,  were  appointed  to  write  a  letter,  in  view  of  this,  to 
St.  John's  congregation,  and  encourage  them  to  fraternal  harmony. 

Upon  motion,  the  Synod  adjourned  until  to-morrow  a.m.  at  6  o'clock. 

Closed  with  prayer. 

This  evening  Mr.  Filbert  preached  on  Rom.  8  :  32. 

Tuesday,  6  a.m. 

A  morning  prayer  opened  this  session. 

No.  13.  Contained  letters  from  two  preachers,  in  which  they  not  only 
excuse  themselves  for  their  absence,  but  also  complain  about  the  meagre 
support  their  congregations  give  them,  in  view  of  the  fact  that  they 
have  such  difficult  services  to  perform. 

The  Synod  laments  that  our  Germans  in  many  sections  are  too  parsi- 
monious in  the  support  of  their  preachers  and  school-teachers,  so  that 
many  good  and  useful  men  must  suffer  actual  want.  It  believes  that 
such  conduct  betrays  great  indifference  to  Christianity,  and  desires  that 
our  brethren  in  the  faith  in  such  sections  might  take  more  to  heart  the 
words  of  Jesus,  Luke  10  :  7,  and  the  words  of  Paul,  I  Cor.  9  :  14,  and 
Gal.  6  :   6 

No.  14.  A  request  from  three  congregations  on  the  Miami  in  the 
State  of  Ohio,  which  ask  for  a  pastor,  and  at  the  same  time  give  the 
information  that  many  more  congregations  could  be  gathered  in  the 
neighborhood. 

Upon  motion,  it  was  resolved  that  the  Synod  provide  for  them  by 
sending  a  traveling  preacher  there. 


468  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

No.  15.  A  defense  of  Mr.  Simon  against  the  complaints  concerning 
the  introduction  of  innovations  which  had  been  made  against  him  before 
Synod  by  the  three  congregations  the  previous  year.  The  Synod  was 
satisfied  with  it,  and  appointed  the  Secretary  to  answer  his  letter. 

No.  16.  A  letter  from  Pastor  Melzheimer,  Sr ,  in  which  he  makes 
excuse  for  his  absence  because  of  feebleness,  and  recommends  Applicant 
Rupert  for  reception,  and  Mr.  Rudisill  as  traveling  preacher. 

Upon  motion,  a  committee  was  appointed  to  audit  the  accounts  of  the 
Treasurer. 

Dr.  Helmuth  handed  to  the  President  a  printed  report  of  the  condi- 
tion of  our  German  brethren  in  Europe,  to  which  they  have  been  re- 
duced through  the  cruel  war  raging  for  such  a  long  time.  Attention 
was  called  to  the  fact  that  the  Orphans'  Home  at  Halle,  in  particular, 
had  greatly  suffered  thereby,  and  that  it  is  our  duty  to  do  everything 
in  our  power  for  its  relief,  since  the  Lutheran  church  in  this  western 
land  owes  so  much  to  that  excellent  institution. 

Upon  motion  of  Dr.  Helmuth,  it  was  unanimously  ordered  that  in 
all  our  congregations,  as  soon  as  possible,  collections  be  taken  for  the 
relief  of  the  Orphans'  Home  at  Halle,  and  that  the  money  collected  be 
sent  to  Mr.  John  Lang,  Treasurer  of  the  German  Evangelical  Lutheran 
congregation,  residing  on  Race  Street,  Philadelphia.  It  was  also  re- 
solved, that  Dr.  Helmuth  endeavor  to  forward  to  Halle  as  soon  as  pos- 
sible, the  money  which  may  be  gathered. 

Concerning  the  "  Magazin  "  it  was  ordered. 

1.  That  each  member  return  such  copies  of  the  "  Evangelisches  Maga- 
zin "  as  he  may  still  have  in  hand  and  cannot  sell,  to  Mr.  Zenther, 
printer,  in  Philadelphia. 

2.  That  it  be  left  to  each  preacher  to  pay  into  the  treasury,  according 
to  the  best  of  his  knowledge  and  belief,  whatever  he  thinks  himself  to 
owe  for  magazines,  since  many  copies  are  lost  in  passage. 

3.  That  in  the  future,  but  one  number  of  six  forms  be  issued  yearly, 
for  the  price  of  B7h  cents.  It  is  believed  that  under  such  an  arrange- 
ment, many  more  can  be  sold  than  formerly. 

Closed  with  prayer. 

Tuesday,  9  a.m. 

After  prayer,  the  committee  appointed  to  audit  the  accounts  of  the 
Treasurer,  presented  its  report,  which  was  read  as  follows : 

The  accounts  of  the  Treasurer,  Pastor  Schaefer,  Sr.,  for  the  past  year, 
have  been  found  correct  in  all  particulars. 

Upon  motion,  it  was  resolved,  that  a  committee  be  appointed  to  in- 
quire into  the  bequest  of  the  late  Mr.  George  Freys,  formerly  of  Middle- 
town,  Dauphin  County,  and  whether,  according  to  the  design  of  the 


SIXTY-SEVENTH  CONVENTION,  1814.  469 

testator,  any  of  it  is  being  applied  for  the  support  and  instruction  of 
poor  orphans — that  this  committee  have  full  power  to  act  as  they  may 
think  best,  with  reference  to  this  matter,  in  the  name  of  the  Synod. 
That  they  be  reimbursed  from  the  Sy nodical  Treasury  for  all  the  ex- 
penses they  may  have  in  the  matter,  and  that  this  committee  be  com- 
posed of  Messrs.  Lochman,  Muhlenberg,  Jr.,  and  F.  C.  Schiiefer. 

It  was  announced  to  the  Synod  that  at  a  meeting  of  preachers  of  dif- 
ferent denominations  (held  the  previous  Fall  in  Hummelstown,  Dauphin 
County),  the  desire  was  expressed  that  there  might  be  put  through  the 
press  a  common  little  hymn  book,  for  use  in  public  service,  containing 
about  250  hymns,  which  shall  be  chosen  from  both  of  the  new  hymn 
books.  It  is  desired  to  know  whether  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Synod, 
in  connection  with  the  Reformed  Synod,  is  willing  to  undertake  the 
matter,  or  in  case  this  cannot  be  done,  whether  the  said  meeting  has 
permission  to  do  it  on  its  own  responsibility. 

Upon  motion,  it  was  resolved  to  postpone  this  matter  until  next  year. 

With  reference  to  the  traveling  preachers,  the  following  arrangements 
were  made : 

1.  That  Pastor  Zaslein  be  appointed  traveling  preacher  to  visit  the 
region  in  and  about  Bardstown,  Kentucky,  and  that  sixty  dollars  be 
paid  him  in  advance. 

2.  That  Mr.  Rudisill  be  traveling  preacher  in  the  State  of  Ohio,  in 
Twien  church,  Stettler's  and  Gebhardt's  congregations,  and  in  their 
neighborhood,  and  that  thirty  dollars  be  paid  him  in  advance. 

3.  That  Mr.  Rupert,  in  case  he  pass  the  examination,  shall  become 
traveling  preacher  in  the  region  west  of  Allegheny,  particularly  in  and 
about  Meadville,  as  far  as  Erie,  and  that  forty  dollars  be  paid  him  in 
advance. 

"With  reference  to  the  poor  preachers  and  preachers'  widows,  it  was 
resolved : 

1.  That  Mr  [Butler]  be  allowed  thirty  dollars  and  Mr.  [Scriba] 
twenty-five  dollars. 

2.  That  eacli  of  four  wridows  be  allowed  twenty  dollars. 

K.  B. — Besides  this,  each  widow  was  awarded  nine  dollars  out  of  the 
legacy. 

As  there  was  no  more  Synodical  business  to  be  transacted,  the  vote 
was  about  to  be  taken  to  decide  the  time  and  place  of  next  year's 
session.  But  at  this  point  several  brethren  from  the  west  side  of  the 
Susquehanna  arose,  and  moved  to  recall  the  last  year's  resolution  of 
Synod,  according  to  which  the  majority  is  always  left  free  to  decide 
upon  any  suitable  place.  They  expressed  the  desire  that  the  Synod 
might  meet  alternately,  every  other  time  on  their  side.  A  motion  to, 
this  effect  was  made  and  carried. 


470  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Thereupon  the  time  and  place  of  next  year's  Synodical  Meeting  were 
determined  by  ballot — namely,  the  time,  Trinity  Sunday ;  and  the  place, 
Frederichstadt,  Maryland. 

The  meeting  was  closed  with  prayer  and  singing,  and  the  deputies 
were  dismissed  with  best  wishes. 


MINISTERIAL  MEETING. 


Tuesday,  3  p.m. 

The  President  opened  this  session  with  prayer,  and  the  stanza,  "  Ach, 
segne  was  ich  thu',''  was  sung.      [Kirchenbuch,  484,  8.] 

The  following  gentlemen  applied  for  admission  into  the  Ministerium : 
Dering,  Wartman,  Morris,  Rupert,  Strein  and  Willi.  Heim ;  and  Cate- 
chist  Probst  applied  for  a  license  as  candidate. 

According  to  regular  order,  the  President  appointed  various  commit- 
tees to  examine  the  same,  and  to  report  by  to-morrow  morning. 

The  candidates  handed  in  their  diaries,  sermons  and  licenses,  and  the 
ordained  preachers  were  divided  into  committees,  closely  to  examine 
the  same. 

Upon  motion,  however,  it  was  resolved,  that  this  examination  should 
not  be  taken  up  during  the  session  of  the  Ministerium,  but  that  the 
ordained  preachers  take  the  sermons  and  diaries  which  were  handed  to 
them  home,  and  not  until  the  next  Ministerial  session  should  they 
report  on  them  in  writing. 

At  the  same  time  it  was  ordered  that  the  licenses  of  the  candidates 
should  all  be  renewed. 

With  reference  to  the  letter  of  Mr.  Zink,  No.  6,  it  was  resolved,  that 
Dr.  Helmuth  answer  him  that  no  schism  exists  between  our  Ministerium 
and  the  Ministerium  of  North  Carolina,  and  advise  him  to  connect  with 
the  Carolina  Ministerium. 

Upon  motion,  the  Ministerium  adjourned  until  to-morrow  morning 
at  6  o'clock. 

Closed  with  prayer. 

This  evening  Mr.  F.  C.  Schiifer  preached  on  II  Cor.  13 :  5. 

Wednesday,  6  a.m. 

After  prayer,  the  committees  presented  their  reports,  and  then,  after 
mature  consideration,  it  was  resolved  that  Messrs.  Probst,  Dering,  Wart- 


SIXTY-SEVENTH  CONVENTION,  1814.  471 

man,  Morris,  Rupert  and  Strein  be  licensed  as  candidates,  and  Mr. 
William  lleim  as  cateehist. 

Upon  the  information  that  several  candidates  do  not  strictly  abide  by 
the  regulations  of  the  Ministerium,  in  that  they  visit  and  take  charge  of 
congregations  without  the  permission  of  the  officers,  it  was  resolved, 
that  any  candidate  who  in  the  future,  contrary  to  the  rule,  shall  visit  or 
take  charge  of  vacant  congregations  without  written  permission  of  the 
officers  of  the  Ministerium,  shall  be  regarded  as  suspended. 

The  call  from  the  congregations  in  Mifflin  County,  viz.  :  Tuscarora, 
Fanzes,  Greenwood,  Lewistown  and  Decatur  Township,  was  read,  and  it 
was  resolved  that  Mr.  William  Heim  might  serve  the  said  congrega- 
tions as  catechist,  under  the  supervision  of  Pastor  Walther. 

The  licenses  were  filled  out  and  signed  by  the  officers. 

9   A.M. 

After  prayer  the  letter  of  Mr.  Schober,  Secretary  of  the  Carolina 
Ministerium,  was  read,  in  which  the  two  following  important  points 
came  up : 

1.  A  report  that  several  members  of  their  Synod  doubt  whether  any 
one  has  the  right  to  administer  the  Holy  Communion  without  the  lay- 
ing on  of  hands  or  ordination.  He  therefore  desires  to  have  informa- 
tion from  church  history,  or  from  other  sources,  as  well  as  passages 
from  the  Bible,  given  for  their  instruction  and  indoctrination  on  this 
point. 

2.  This  letter  contains  a  wish  of  the  Carolina  Ministerium  to  have  a 
better  and  more  complete  form  of  service,  in  which  different  forms 
would  be  found  for  the  sake  of  variety. 

This  letter  was  the  occasion  of  many  useful  and  important  remarks. 
The  fact  was  called  to  mind  that  some  years  ago  already  these  points 
had  been  discussed,  and  the  following  resolutions  were  therefore 
adopted  : 

a.  That  each  ordained  preacher  present  in  writing  to  next  year's 
Ministerium  his  opinion  concerning  the  first  point,  and 

b.  That  in  each  district,  if  possible,  a  Special  Conference  be  held 
this  fall,  in  order  to  make  such  annotations  and  changes  in  our  Form 
of  Service  as  the  assembled  brethren  may  deem  necessary,  which 
changes  shall  be  laid  before  the  next  Ministerial  Meeting,  in  writing. 

Upon  motion  it  was  resolved  that  the  resolution  of  Synod  of  the  year 
1801,  with  reference  to  the  District  Meetings,  be  inserted  in  the  "  Maga- 
zin  "  by  the  Secretary,  so  that  each  member  may  know  to  which  district 
he  belongs. 

The  President  then  read  their  duties  to  the  candidates  and  catechists. 


472  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

They  solemnly  promised  to   observe   the   same,   and   received   their 
licenses. 

Finally,  all  the  members  bent  their  knees  before  the  Lord,  and  sang 
several  appropriate  stanzas. 

Daniel  Kurtz, 

President. 

George  Lochman, 

Secretary. 


SIXTY-EIGHTH  CONVENTION. 

1815. 


SYNODICAL   MEETING. 

Held  in  Fredeuichtown,  May  21,  22,  23  and  24,  1815. 

On  Sunday,  it  being  the  Festival  of  the  Trinity,  the  preachers  and 
delegates  assembled  in  the  parsonage,  and  went  in  procession  to  the 
church,  where  the  Rev.  Dr.  Helmuth  preached  on  Acts  20 :  28.  Pas- 
tor Schiiffer  preached  in  the  afternoon,  and  Pastor  Lochman  in  the 
evening. 

In  the  Reformed  Church  Pastors  Jiiger  and  Walter  preached.  Both 
churches  were  crowded,  and  the  presence  of  the  Spirit  of  God  was  felt. 

Monday,  9  a.m. 

The  preachers  and  delegates  assembled  in  the  church.  The  session 
was  opened  with  prayer  and  singing.  The  roll  of  members  was  called, 
and  the  following  answered  to  their  names  : 

1 .  Dr.  Helmuth Philadelphia. 

2.  Pastor  Kurtz  .......  Baltimore. 

3.  "  Schiiffer,  Sr Philadelphia. 

4.  "  Henkel Virginia. 

5.  "  Jiiger Allentown. 

6.  "  Schmucker Yorktown. 

7.  "  Rothrauf Green  Castle. 

8.  "  Lochman Lebanon. 

9.  "  Dill 

10.  "  Grob Taneytown. 

11.  "  Griiber Middletown,  Maryland. 

12.  "  Muhlenberg    ....  Reading. 

13.  "  Geisenhainer ....  Trappe. 

14.  "  Jasinsky Pikeland. 

15  '  Herbst,Sr Manchester. 

16.  ';       Mnller Chambersburg. 

17.  "       Butler Fort  Cumberland 

473 


474 


DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 


Selinsgrove. 
Woodstock,  Virginia. 
Frederichtown. 
Hanover. 

Magunschy. 


18.  Pastor  Walter 

19.  "       Haas 

20.  "       D.  Schaffer  .... 

21.  "       Melsheimer  .... 

22.  "       Heine 

23.  Candidate  Scriba    .... 

24.  "  Rehman .... 

25.  "  Kessler  .... 

26.  "  Riernenschneider 

27.  "  Hecht    .... 

28.  "  Moller  .... 

29.  "  Heim 

30.  "  Ulrich   .... 

31.  "  Weigand   .    .    . 

32.  «  Osterloh    .    .    . 

33.  "  Vanhoff.  .    .    . 

34.  "  Engel     .... 

35.  "  Sack  man   .    .    . 

36.  "  Ernst 

37.  "  Colson    .... 

38.  "  Rudisill.  .    .    . 

39.  "  N.  Schmucker  . 

40.  "  Hemping  .    .    . 

41.  "  Reck 

42.  "  Herbst,  Jr.    .    . 

43.  "  Filbert  .... 

44.  "  Scknee    .... 

45.  "  Braun     .... 

46.  "  Probst     .... 

47.  "  Wartmann     .    . 

48.  "  Morris    .... 

49.  "  Rupert 

50.  "  Strein 

51.  "  Heim 

31  were  absent. 

Delegates  from  the  various  congregations,  who  presented  their  cre- 
dentials in  writing  were: 

1.  Mr.  Birnbaum Philadelphia. 

2.  "     Witmann Philadelphia. 

3.  "     Mackenheimer Baltimore. 

4.  «    Opp York. 


Abbolstown. 

Cumberland. 

Rockingham. 

Carlisle. 

Sch  w  am  m. 

Buffalo,  N.  Y. 

Tulpehocken. 

Washington. 

Cumberland. 

Jonestown. 

Bloomsburg. 

Loudon,  Virginia. 

Marietta. 

Mount  Bethel. 

York. 

Millerstown,  Va. 

Leikenstahl. 

Winchester. 

York  County. 

New  Holland. 

Pittsburg. 

Pottsgrove. 

Forks. 

Whitehall. 

Wrightsville. 


SIXTY-EIGIITII  CONVENTION,  1815.  475 

5.  Mr.  Merro Grecncastle. 

G.     "     Kesselring Taneytown. 

7.  "     Kruger Middletown,  Md. 

8.  "     Nohs Manchester. 

9.  "     Frey Chambersburg. 

10.     '•     Kayser Selinsgrove. 

11  "  Heissly Frederickstown. 

12.  "  Krumlein Hanover. 

13.  "  Eager Abbotstown. 

14.  "  "Wunderlick Cumberland  County. 

15.  "  Kraber Carlisle. 

16.  "  Haak Tulpeliocken. 

17.  "  Herrmann Cumberland  County. 

18.  "  Schaffer Loudon  County. 

19.  "  Hippe Marietta. 

20.  "  Riess York  County. 

21.  "  Lahr Leikensthal. 

22.  "  Schlegel Winchester. 

23.  "  Kayser York  County. 

24.  "  Bitzer New  Holland. 

25.  "  Oberdorf Wrightsville. 

26.  "  Reydt         

Hence  the  body  of  Synod  on  this  occasion  was  composed  of  seventy- 
seven  members. 

According  to  regular  order,  the  vote  for  officers  was  now  taken,  and 

Pastor  Kurtz  became  President. 
"       Lochman  became  Secretary. 
"       Schaffer  became  Treasurer. 

The  communications  were  handed  in  and  numbered,  and  upon 
motion,  eight  committees  were  appointed  to  examine  the  same,  and  to 
report  on  them  during  the  afternoon.     Closed  with  prayer. 

3   P.M. 

The  session  was  opened  with  prayer. 

The  Protocol  of  the  Synodical  Meeting  of  the  previous  year  was 
read,  and  upon  motion,  those  to  whom  particular  matters  had  been 
committed  the  previous  year,  presented  their  reports. 

1.  The  officers  of  the  Ministerium  reported  that  they  had  prepared 
and  printed  the  address  to  the  Germans,  with  reference  to  the  schools; 
but  through  an  oversight,  only  five  hundred  instead  of  five  thousand 
copies  had  been  printed. 


476  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

It  was  therefore  resolved,  that  the  lacking  forty-five  hundred  should 
still  be  printed. 

2.  Dr.  Helmuth  made  a  report  of  the  moneys  received  and  forwarded 
for  the  Orphans'  Home  at  Halle,  and  also  rendered  the  account  of  the 
same,  which  Mr.  Johann  Lange  had  faithfully  kept.  All  rejoiced  at 
the  large  contributions,  and  particularly  at  the  successful  transmission 
of  the  money  to  Halle.1 

A  letter  from  Dr.  Knapp,  Director  of  the  Orphans'  Home  was  read, 
in  which  he  acknowledges  the  receipt  of  the  money,  and  expresses  sin- 
cere thanks  in  the  name  of  the  teachers  and  orphan  children. 

3.  Concerning  the  bequest  of  the  deceased  Mr.  G.  Frey  for  the  erec- 
tion of  an  Orphans'  Home  in  Middletown,  Dauphin  County,  Pastor 
Lochman  reported  that  he  had  investigated  the  matter,  and  for  this 
purpose  had  consulted  different  attorneys,  and  that  it  was  their  opinion 
that  the  matter  should  be  left  in  statu  quo,  as  long  as  the  widow  lived. 

4.  Concerning  the  common  (gemeinschaftliche)  little  hymn-book,  for 
use  in  the  public  service  of  the  German  Protestant  congregations,  it  was 
resolved,  that  it  were  best  not  to  have  anything  to  do  with  the  same, 
and  that  no  member,  or  several  members  in  our  connection  have  a  right 
to  have  a  new  hymn-book  prepared  or  printed,  without  consent  of  the 
Synod. 

5.  The  traveling  preachers  appointed  at  the  previous  Synod,  pre- 
sented their  reports. 

Mr.  Rudisill  was  unable  to  undertake  his  journey  because  of  illness. 

Mr.  Rupert  visited  the  regions  assigned  to  him,  and  presented  his 
journal,  which,  upon  motion,  was  given  over  to  a  committee  to  examine 
and  report  upon. 

Synod  was  notified  by  Mr.  Ziislein,  that  he  had  visited  the  regions 
assigned  him  by  the  Synod,  but  could  not  settle  there,  and  at  present 
was  living  in  Cincinnati. 

The  committees  reported  on  the  communications  committed  to  them. 
From  these  it  appeared,  that  all  the  absent  pastors  presented  excuses, 
either  in  writing  or  verbally,  and  wished  for  the  Synod  the  blessing  of 
God  upon  its  work.  That  in  the  past  year  two  worthy  members  of  the 
Ministerium,  Mr.  Friedrich  Valentin  Melzheimer,  and  Mr.  Solomon 
Sehaffer,  had  been  called  through  death  into  eternity.  That  no  import- 
ant complaint  against  any  preacher  had  come  up — the  rather  that  the 
congregations  expressed  their  entire  satisfaction  with  their  preachers, 
but  that  the  following  items  were  recommended  for  the  closer  examina- 
tion of  the  Synod. 

1.  A  letter  of  Dr.  Muhlenberg,  in  which  he  excuses  himself  for  his 
1  For  full  list  of  contributions  see  document  in  Archives. 


SIXTY-EIGHTH  CONVENTION,  1815.  477 

non-appearance,  sends  ten  dollars  as  a  contribution  to  the  Synodical 
Treasury  from  his  congregation,  and  gives  his  opinion  concerning  the 
change  of  the  Agenda,  and  a  new  Ministerial  Order. 

Upon  motion,  it  was  resolved  to  give  attention  to  this  letter  in  the 
Ministerium,  when  the  particular  points  would  come  up  there. 

2  A  request  from  congregations  in  Monongahela  County,  Virginia, 
to  have  a  preacher,  with  the  information  that  there  are  also  other  con- 
gregations in  the  neighborhood,  which  desire  to  unite  with  them. 

Upon  motion,  it  was  resolved  that  any  preacher  of  our  connection 
Bhall  have  the  freedom  to  take  charge  of  these  congregations,  and  that 
Messrs.  Henkel  and  Schnee  shall  give  a  fuller  account  of  the  said 
region  to  any  one  who  may  desire  it. 

3.  A  letter  from  Candidate  Stock,  in  which  he  asks  for  aid  because 
of  his  poor  circumstances. 

Upon  motion,  it  was  resolved  to  grant  him  something  from  the 
Synodical  Treasury. 

4.  In  a  communication  from  Pastor  Flohr,  the  desire  was  expressed 
that  the  annual  announcement  of  the  Synodical  Meeting  might  be  made 
somewhat  earlier,  so  that  the  information  could  also  be  received  in  the 
outlying  regions. 

Resolved,  That  in  the  future,  the  Secretary  shall  have  the  announce- 
ment printed  in  various  newspapers  three  months  in  advance. 

The  desire  was  also  expressed  in  this  letter,  that  in  the  future  the 
traveling  preachers  might  visit  the  congregations  in  Greenbriar  County, 
and  on  the  South  Branch  in  Virginia,  which  are  without  preachers ; 
whereat  it  was  resolved  that  this  shall  be  done,  if  possible. 

5.  Communications  with  reference  to  St.  John's  congregation  in 
Lykensthal.  It  was  deemed  advisable  to  appoint  a  special  committee, 
to  investigate  the  matter  and  hear  both  sides. 

6.  A  plan  for  improvement  of  the  German  school  system,  by  some 
one  not  mentioned. 

Upon  motion,  it  was  resolved,  that  the  Synod,  because  of  a  lack  of 
sufficient  means,  can  have  nothing  to  do  with  this  matter. 

7.  A  letter  from  Mr.  Osterloh,  in  which  he  states  that  Mr.  Heim  has 
made  encroachments  on  one  of  his  congregations ;  likewise  a  letter  from 
this  congregation  asking  for  Mr.  Heim  as  their  preacher. 

Here,  too,  it  was  found  advisable  to  appoint  a  special  committee  for 
the  investigation  of  the  matter. 

8.  A  letter  from  Pastor  Geisenhainer,  Sr.,  in  which  he  announces  that 
he  was  now  continuing  his  pastoral  work  in  a  small  congregation  at 
Bellefonte,  Centre  County. 

The  Synod  wished  for  him  the  blessing  of  God  upon  his  further 
ministrations. 


478  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

9.  A  report  from  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Synod  in  North  Caro- 
lina, enclosing  a  printed  form  of  license  introduced  by  them. 

Their  prosperous  condition  was  a  source  of  sincere  rejoicing,  and  it 
was  resolved  to  send  them  a  report  of  our  transactions. 

Report  of  a  Special  Conference  of  the  Western  region.  This  also 
was  a  source  of  rejoicing. 

11.  Letter  from  Mr.  Simon,  in  which  he  complains  that  his  letter  to 
last  year's  Synod  had  not  been  answered. — He  also  defends  himself 
against  several  complaints,  and  expresses  the  desire  to  continue  as  a 
member  of  our  body.  Inclosed  was  a  favorable  testimonial  from  his 
congregations. 

Concerning  this,  Pastor  Lochman  reported  that  in  the  name  of  the 
Synod  he  had  written  and  sent  an  answer  to  the  letter  of  Mr.  Simon, 
which,  as  it  appears,  he  did  not  receive. 

Resolved,  That  Pastor  Lochman  write  to  him  again,  and  assure  him 
that  we  still  recognize  him  as  a  worthy  member  of  our  body. 

12.  A  call  to  Pastor  Dill  from  Germantown,  Ohio. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Dill,  as  an  ordained  preacher,  might  act  in  this 
matter  as  he  thinks  best,  and  that  he  be  charged  to  visit  other  vacant  con- 
gregations on  the  way,  as  traveling  preacher,  in  case  he  goes  to  this  region. 

13.  A  letter  from  Pastor  Stauch,  in  which  he  recommends  Abr. 
Schneider,  who  has  studied  under  his  supervision,  for  reception  into  the 
Ministerium,  and  Candidate  Weigandt  for  ordination. 

14.  A  letter  from  Mr.  F.  C.  Schiiffer,  in  which  he  reports  his  removal 
to  New  York,  and  requests  that  he  still  be  considered  a  member  of  the 
Pennsylvania  Ministerium. 

15.  Report  of  last  year's  transactions  of  Pastor  Henkel  as  traveling 
preacher. 

It  is  a  pleasure  to  note  the  earnestness  and  zeal  which  our  worthy 
brother  continues  to  display  in  this  arduous  service,  and  may  he  enjoy 
the  continued  blessing  of  God. 

16.  A  call  to  Mr.  Osterloh  from  the  German  Creek  congregation, 
Cumberland  County 

The  said  gentleman  was  given  permission  to  take  charge  of  the  con- 
gregation. 

17.  A  call  to  Mr.  Probst  from  Mount  Bethel  and  Forks,  Northamp. 
ton  County. 

Resolved,  That  he  be  allowed  to  accept  the  same. 

18.  A  request  for  a  preacher  from  congregations  in  Mercer  County, 
with  the  promise  of  adequate  support. 

Resolved,  That  permission  be  given  to  any  preacher  of  our  connection 
to  visit  and  take  charge  of  said  congregations. 


SIXTY-EIGHTH  CONVENTION,  1815.  479 

19.  The  congregations  in  Gettysburg  and  Mark's  [church]  desire 
to  have  Mr.  Budisill  as  preacher. 

Mr.  Rudisill  was  given  permission  to  take  charge  of  them. 

20.  Call  from  Culpepper,  Virginia,  for  a  preacher  who  can  preach  in 
the  German  and  English  languages. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Reck,  or  in  case  he  is  unwilling,  any  other 
preacher  of  our  connection,  be  allowed  to  take  charge  of  this  congregation. 

21.  A  memorial  from  Mr.  Cook,  an  English  preacher,  who  belongs 
to  the  Episcopal  Church,  in  which  he  states  that  he  is  convinced  of  the 
purity  of  the  principles  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church,  and  that 
he  has  a  great  desire  to  be  received  into  the  same,  and  also  expresses 
the  hope  that  he  may  be  located  as  preacher  in  Huntingdon. 

The  examination  of  this  matter  was  referred  to  the  Ministerium. 

22.  Communications  concerning  Mr.  Cramer,  also  referred  to  the 
Ministerium. 

23.  A  desire  of  the  congregations  in  Philadelphia  and  Sugar  Creek, 
Ohio,  to  have  Mr.  Abraham  Schneider  as  their  pastor. 

Resolved,  That  he  be  permitted  to  take  charge  of  said  congregations, 
provided  he  pass  his  examination. 

24.  Memorial  from  the  Church  Council  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran 
congregation  in  Hagerstown,  in  which  the  circumstances  of  the  congre- 
gation are  presented,  and  a  young  man,  Henrich  Bachy  by  name,  who 
for  some  time  has  been  preaching  to  them,  is  recommended.  Referred 
to  the  Ministerium. 

25.  A  call  to  Mr.  Rupert,  from  Meadville,  Pennsylvania.  But  since 
Mr.  Rupert  cannot  accept  it,  it  was  resolved  to  provide  for  them 
through  a  traveling  preacher. 

A  committee  was  appointed  to  audit  the  last  year's  accounts  of  the 
Treasurer. 

Closed  with  prayer. 

This  evening  Pastor  Muhlenberg,  Jr.,  preached. 

Tuesday,  9  a.m. 

After  prayer  the  following  committees  presented  their  reports,  viz. : 
The  committee  on  No.  7  reported  that  it  would  be  best  for  Mr.  Heim 
to  take  charge  of  the  congregation  and  serve  it.  Accordingly  the  Synod 
assigned  the  congregation  to  Mr.  Heim. 

The  committee  on  Mr.  Rupert's  journal  as  traveling  preacher  re- 
ported that  the  same  had  been  fully  and  properly  kept ;  that  he  had 
traveled  for  almost  four  months,  preached  38  times,  baptized  197  chil- 
dren, confirmed  27  and  had  administered  the  Holy  Communion  to  117, 
that  he  had  traveled  1142  miles,  received  8112  and  paid  out  only  $11.03. 


4S0 


DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 


Resolved,  Thai  $25  additional  be  appropriated  to  Mr.  Rupert  from  the 
Synodical  Treasury. 

The  committee  on  No.  5  reported  that,  according  to  their  opinion, 
Mr.  Hemping  should  continue  to  occupy  the  parsonage  and  the  land 
belonging  to  it,  as  before,  but  that  the  congregation  should  be  permitted 
to  be  served  by  any  other  preacher  of  the  Miuisterium,  only  that  in  the 
meantime  Mr.  Hemping  should  not  be  forbidden  to  perform  Ministerial 
acts  in  said  congregation,  if  he  should  be  called  upon  for  them. 

This  report  was  adopted. 

The  committee  appointed  on  the  accounts  of  the  Treasurer  reported 
that  they  found  the  same  correct  in  all  particulars,  and  that  the  balance 
in  the  hands  of  the  Treasurer  amounts  to  $188. 73?. 

Following  is  the  report  of  the  baptized,  confirmed,  communicants, 
buried  and  schools  : 

Bap-  Con-  Commu-  De- 

tized.  firmed,  nicants.  ceased.  Schools. 
Dr.  Helruuth  and  ■) 

Schafer            }    •  •  •  286  50          800  144  5 

Dr.  Muhlenberg 145  43  363  42  1 

Pastor  Jager 91  67  440  33  3 

"       Schmucker  ....  146  137  521  43  4 

"       Lochman 142  65  596  39  5 

"       Rothrauf 81  36  403  17  3 

"       Flohr 136  115  293  20  4 

"       Grob 93  71  511  7  2 

"       Stauch 118  55  283  7  — 

"       Graber 71  —  141  20  3 

"       Muhlenberg,  Jr.  .  167  67  434  45  3 

"       Jasinsky 44  26  228  27  2 

"       Herbst,  Sr 151  35  295  39  4 

"       Moller 107  30  227  17  2 

"       Buttler 22  —  62  4  — 

"       Steck 175  —  295  11  4 

"       Knoske 218  92  1293  76  6 

"       Walter 174  35  465  27  8 

"       Petersen 91  35  123  —  1 

"       D.  Schafer   ....  205  133  605  64  1 

"       Haas 90  28  60  27  1 

"       Melsheimer  ....  121  65  466  34  5 

"       Heine 108  62  617  32  4 

Mr.  Scriba 14  —  —  2  — 

"    Rehman 96  30  275  34  — 

"    Kessler 39  7  61  19  — 

"    Riemenschneider  .  .    43  38  226  4  3 

"    Hecht 70  47  138  19  1 


SIXTY-EIGHTH  CONVENTION,  1815. 


481 


Bap- 
tized. 

Con- 
firmed. 

Commu- 
nicants. 

De- 
ceased. 

Schools. 

.  136 

131 

983 

34 

4 

107 

18 

142 

11 

3 

"    Ulrich 

,  103 

79 

929 

46 

6 

"    Weigaudt 

87 
165 

30 

202 
235 

7 
11 

3 
4 

105 

78 

400 

27 

3 

"    Engel 

130 

40 

400 

16 

5 

41 

31 

191 

39 

1 

136 

66 

728 

45 

5 

"    Ernst 

109 

73 

251 

14 

2 

118 

27 

180 

18 

5 

157 
.     41 

42 

412 
133 

28 
4 

6 
1 

"    Rudisill 

40 

46 

306 

10 

4 

64 

— 

208 

14 

— 

"    Nicolaus  Schmucker 

90 

84 

223 

20 

5 

"    Reck 

230 
101 

70 
50 

534 

206 

44 

40 

6 

"    Schindel 

156 

73 

400 

17 

4 

"    C.  Schaffer 

155 

22 

242 

11 

4 

"    F.  Herbst 

66 

39 

398 

25 

5 

"    Reinhardt 

60 

43 

148 

2 

— 

"    Leist 

142 

37 

268 

8 

3 

"    Filbert 

65 

24 

149 

8 

2 

82 

47 

372 

14 

5 

"    Probst 

46 

— 

103 

16 

2 

"    Doring  and  l 
"    Hartman      } 

91 

30 

655 

40 

6 

14 

— 

— 

18 

2 

"    Heiiu,  Jr 

197 
105 

27 

117 

5 

2 

The  appointment  of  traveling  preachers  was  referred  to  the  Minister- 
ium. 

The  congregations  in  Huntingdon  County,  Greenfield,  Franktown, 
Morrison's  Cove  and  Sinking  Valley,  through  their  delegate,  Mr.  Isaac 
Helms,  applied  for  a  preacher. 

Resolved,  That  the  said  congregations  may  again  apply  to  our  Synod 
as  soon  as  Mr.  Kramer  has  entirely  severed  his  connection  with  the 
same,  and  that  meanwhile  Mr.  Helms  look  about  among  our  young  men 
to  see  whether  one  or  the  other  can  be  found  to  take  charge  of  the  con- 
gregations 

The  time  and  place  of  next  year's  Synodical  Meeting  were  now  deter- 
31 


482  DOCUMENTAKY  HISTOEY.    • 

mined  by  ballot,  viz. :   The  time,  Trinity  Sunday,  1816 ;  the  place, 
Philadelphia. 

Closed  with  prayer  and  singing  and  the  deputies  were  dismissed  with 
best  wishes. 


MINISTERIAL  MEETING. 
Tuesday,  3  p.m. 


The  President  opened  this  meeting  with  a  devout  prayer. 

The  preachers  presented  their  reports  on  the  sermons  and  diaries  of 
the  candidates,  which  had  been  given  them  the  previous  year  to  take 
along  for  examination.  The  sermons  and  diaries  of  most  of  the  gentle- 
men were  found  to  be  excellent,  but  some  of  them  were  not  so  good.  It 
was  desired  that  the  latter  should  apply  themselves  to  their  studies  with 
more  diligence  and  earnestness. 

The  ordained  preachers  were  requested,  according  to  the  Ministerial 
resolution  of  last  year,  to  express  their  opinion  on  the  question  which 
had  been  laid  before  us  for  reply  by  the  Carolina  Ministerium,  namely : 
"  Whether  candidates  have  a  right  to  perform  actus  minister idles,  with- 
out previous  laying  on  of  hands?"  Some  presented  their  opinions  ver- 
bally, others  in  writing.  It  was  unanimously  agreed,  that  according  to 
the  testimony  of  the  Bible  and  church  history,  a  written  permit  can  be 
regarded  as  just  as  valid  as  the  laying  on  of  hands ;  that,  accordingly, 
our  ministerial  regulation  is  not  against  the  spirit  (Ordnung)  of  the 
Evangelical  Lutheran  Church,  and  that  for  this  reason,  candidates,  if 
they  are  licensed,  can,  with  a  good  conscience,  perform  all  ministerial 
acts. 

Upon  motion,  it  was  resolved  that  one  of  the  written  reports  be  sent 
to  the  Carolina  Ministerium  as  an  answer.  But  in  this  connection  the 
wish  was  expressed  that  another  class  or  order  of  preachers  might  be 
introduced. 

According  to  a  resolution  of  the  Ministerium,  none  could  be  made 
pastors  except  such  as  had  received  systematic  instruction  by  an  or- 
dained preacher  for  the  term  of  three  years,  and  had  done  something  in 
the  languages.  But  since  there  are  many  good  and  useful  men  to  be 
found  in  our  connection  who  have  had  no  opportunity  to  acquire  such 
knowledge,  and  since  it  was  not  desired  to  exclude  them  from  ordination 
altogether,  it  was  deemed  just  and  necessary  to  ordain  them,  at  least  as 
deacons. 

In  the  year  1812  already,  at  Carlisle,  a  motion  of  this  sort  was  pre- 


SIXTY-EIGHTH  CONVENTION,   1815.  483 

sented  to  the  Ministerium  for  consideration,  and  it  was  now  resolved  to 
adopt  the  said  motion,  made  at  that  time. 

Closed  with  prayer. 

Pastor  Schmucker  preached  in  the  evening. 

Wednesday,  9  a.m. 

After  prayer,  it  was  resolved,  that  a  committee  be  appointed  to 
improve  and  perfect  our  Agenda,  and  that  the  committee  be  composed 
of  Messrs.  Helmuth,  SchiifFer,  Sr.,  Kurz,  Lochman,  Schmucker,  and 
Muhlenberg,  Jr.  That  each  member  of  this  committee  write  out  the 
changes  regarded  as  desirable  [niitzlich],  that  they  meet  in  Philadelphia 
Friday  evening  before  Trinity  Sunday,  in  order  to  select  from  among 
their  different  notes  the  best  and  most  suitable,  so  that  then  they  may 
lay  the  Agenda  thus  improved  before  the  assembled  Ministerium  for 
examination. 

The  following  gentlemen  applied  for  reception  into  the  Ministerium  : 
Benjamin  Kurtz,  Jr.,  Benjamin  Keller,  Michael  Meyerhofer,  Abraham 
Schneider,  Martin  Walter  and  Heinrich  Backy,  and  committees  were 
appointed  to  examine  the  same. 

Concerning  the  request  of  the  English  Episcopal  preacher,  Mr.  Cook 
(vide  No.  21),  it  was  resolved,  that  as  our  Ministerium  is  a  German- 
speaking  Ministerium,  we  cannot  have  anything  to  do  with  him,  accord- 
ing to  our  present  principles;  but  as  soon  as  he,  according  to  the 
declaration  of  his  letter,  has  acquired  the  German  language,  so  that  he 
can  also  preach  in  the  same,  he  may  apply  to  us  again  and  expect 
preferment. 

Upon  motion,  it  was  resolved  to  ordain  the  following  candidates  as 
deacons:  Messrs.  Rehman,  Kessler,  Riemenschneider,  Hecht,  Moller, 
Ullrich,  Weigandt,  Vanhoff  and  Ernst. 

Closed  with  prayer. 

3   P.M. 

The  committees  appointed  to  examine  the  applicants  presented  their 
reports,  and  moved  that  Benjamin  Kurtz,  Benjamin  Keller,  and  Michael 
Meyerhofer  be  received  as  candidates,  and  Abraham  Schneider  and 
Martin  Walter  as  catechists,  with  the  understanding  that  Mr.  Schneider 
shall  be  under  the  supervision  of  Pastor  Stauch,  and  Mr.  Walter  under 
the  supervision  of  Pastor  Henkel.     These  motions  were  adopted. 

Upon  motion,  it  was  resolved  that  $51  of  the  Rodelheim  legacy  be 
put  into  the  Synodical  Treasury,  for  the  support  of  poor  preachers' 
widows ;  also,  that  each  widow,  six  in  number,  shall  receive  $15  this 
year  from  the  treasury. 

Resolved,  that  Mr.  Backy,  at  his  convenience,  carry  on  his  studies 


484  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

under  Pastor  D.  Schiiffer,  until  a  preacher  move  to  Hagerstown,  when 
he  shall  then  have  the  privilege  to  avail  himself  of  the  instruction  of 
the  preacher  dwelling  in  Hagerstown.  And  that  $50  be  allowed  him 
from  the  Synodical  Treasury. 

At  5  o'clock  the  meeting  received  the  sad  news  of  the  death  of  the 
Rev.  Dr.  Muhlenberg.  A  general  silence  prevailed.  Then  it  was 
resolved  that  Dr.  Helmuth  be  requested  to  hold  his  funeral  oration  the 
next  Sunday  a.m.  in  Lancaster. 

With  reference  to  the  traveling  preachers  the  following  arrangements 
were  made,  viz. :  that  Pastor  Dill,  as  traveling  preacher,  visit  the  region 
in  and  about  New  Germantown,  in  the  State  of  Ohio,  and  that  on  his 
journey  to  and  fro,  he  serve  with  the  gospel  as  many  vacant  congrega- 
tions as  possible,  and  that  $40  be  paid  him  in  advance. 

Also,  that  Mr.  Colson  as  traveling  preacher,  visit  the  regions  in  and 
about  Meadville  (Crawford  County),  as  far  as  Erie,  and  that  $40  be 
paid  him  in  advance. 

The  officers  now  filled  out  the  licenses  and  certificates  of  ordination, 
as  well  as  the  various  orders  on  the  Treasury,  and  the  meeting  was 
closed  with  singing  and  prayer. 

8    P.M. 

The  preachers,  together  with  the  members  of  the  congregation,  assem- 
bled in  the  church,  and  after  a  short  address  by  the  Senior,  the  pre- 
viously named  nine  candidates  were  solemnly  ordained.  Then  the 
President  read  their  duties  to  the  candidates,  and  the  three  named  can- 
didates were  empowered  to  exercise  the  office  of  evangelical  pastor  in 
the  congregations  entrusted  to  them.  The  meeting  was  then  closed  with 
singing  and  prayer. 


SIXTY-NINTH  CONVENTION. 


1816. 


SYNODICAL  MEETING 
Held  in  Philadelphia,  during  Trinity  Week  of  the  Year  1816. 

Sunday  a.m.,  the  attending  preachers  assembled  in  the  residence  of 
the  Rev.  Dr.  Schiiffer,  and  went  from  there,  some  to  St.  Michael's,  others 
to  Zion's  Church 

President  Kurtz  preached  in  Zion's,  Pastor  Muhlenberg  in  St. 
Michael's.  In  the  afternoon,  Pastor  Sch mucker  preached,  and  in  the 
evening,  Pastor  Fr.  Geisenhainer,  both  in  Zion's. 

Monday  June  10th,  a.m. 

The  members  of  Synod  assembled  in  Zion's.  Their  business  was 
opened  with  singing  and  prayer. 

The  roll  of  preachers  was  called. 

The  Following  were  Present: 


1.  The  Reverend  Dr.  Helmuth  (Sr.) 

2.  "  " 


.  Philadelphia. 
"   Kurz  (Pres.)  ....  Baltimore. 

3.  "  "  "   Sckaffer  .(Treasurer),  Philadelphia. 

4.  Pastor  Jager Hanover. 

5.  "       Schmucker York. 

6.  "       Fr.  Geisenhainer Little  Muschannon. 

7.  "       Lochmann  (Sec.) Harrisburg. 

8.  "       Endress Lancaster. 

9.  "       Grob    .    , Taneytown. 

10.  "       Muhlenberg Reading. 

11.  "       H.  Geisenhainer Trap. 

12.  "       Ilgen Aaronsburg. 

13.  "       Herbst Manchester. 

14.  "       M  oiler Chambersburg. 

15.  "       Knoske Kutztown. 

16.  "      Walter Selinsgrove. 

485 


486  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

17.  Pastor  Mensch Springfield. 

18.  "  D.  F.  Schaffer Friedrichtown. 

19.  "  Heine Macunshy. 

20.  Deacon  Hecht Easton. 

21.  "  Miiller Schwamm. 

22.  "  Ulrich Tulpehocken. 

23.  "  Vanhoff Jonestown. 

24.  "  Ernst Lebanon. 

25.  Candidate  Heim Buffalo  Valley. 

26.  "  Biitis Warwick. 

27.  "  Osterlo Cumberland. 

28.  "  Engel Bloomsburg. 

29.  "  Sackmann Loudon  Co.,  Va. 

30.  "  Meendsen     .....    ...  North'pton  Co.,  Pa. 

31.  "  Colsen Meadville. 

32.  "  Becker Germantown. 

33.  "  Miinnich SchuylkiU. 

34.  "  Tiedeman Somerset. 

35.  "  Weyand Whitpain. 

36.  "  Hemping Lyken's  Valley. 

37.  "  Schindel Sunbury. 

38.  "  Herbst York  County. 

39.  "  Filbert New  Holland. 

40.  "  Probst Forks. 

41.  "  Morris Wrightsville. 

42.  "  Rupert Hamilton. 

43.  "  Strein Elizabetbtown. 

44.  "  Heim .  Mifflin. 

45.  "  Kurz Hagerstown. 

46;  "  Kohler  (Keller) Carlisle. 

47.  "  Meyerheffer 

The  Duly  Accredited  Delegates  of  their  Congregations  were  : 

1.  Mr.  Hockle      Philadelphia. 

2.  "  Fricke Philadelphia. 

3.  "  Mackenheimer Baltimore. 

4.  "  Spengenberg Allentown. 

5.  "  Leitner York. 

6.  "  Ziegler Harrisburg. 

7.  "  Eichholz Lancaster. 

8.  "  Schmidt  and  Otto Reading. 

9.  "  Merkle Trap. 


SIXTY-NINTH  CONVENTION,   1816.  487 

10.  Mr.  Herter Aaronsburg. 

11.  "     Schneider Goshenhoppen. 

12. .   "     Helms Kutztown. 

13.  "  Mohr Selinsgrove. 

14.  "  Jungken Springfield. 

15.  "  Weid Macunshy. 

16.  "  Horn Easton. 

17.  "  "Wartmann Schwamm. 

18.  "  Klees Buffalo  Valley. 

19.  "  Reder    c Tulpehocken. 

20.  "  Elser Warwick. 

21.  "  Probst Bloomsburg. 

22.  "  Hauser Northampton  Co. 

23.  "  Carmine Lebanon. 

24.  "  Pering Germantown. 

25.  °  Hammer Schuylkill. 

26.  "  Heist Whitpain. 

27.  "  Martin Sunbury. 

28.  "  Seger New  Holland. 

29.  "  Schmidt Mount  Bethel. 

30.  "  Gauer Hamilton. 

31.  "  Albert Elizabethtown. 

32.  "  Reiss Mifflin. 

33.  "  Hammer Hagerstown. 

84.  • "  Graber Carlisle. 

Rev.  Mr.  Christ.  Scliiiffer  presented  his  credential  as  Delegate  of  the 
New  York  Synod. 

Messrs.  Rebcnac,  of  Martinsburg,  and  Joslein,  of  Cincinnati,  pre- 
sented themselves  as  friends  with  the  privilege  of  a  seat. 

The  Synod  next  preceded  to  the  election  of  its  officers,  and 

Pastor  Lochman  became  President. 
"       Endress,  became  Secretary. 
"       Muhlenberg  became  Treasurer. 

Communications  and  letters  were  handed  in.  These  the  President 
numbered,  and  appointed  six  committees  to  read  them,  and  report  on 
their  contents. 

Messrs.  Heine,  Ilgen  and  Fricke  were  appointed  to  audit  the  annual 
accounts  of  the  Treasurer. 

The  Protocol  of  the  previous  year's  session  was  read. 

The  President  offered  prayer. 


488  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 


3  p.m. 


The  session  was  opened  with  singing  and  prayer. 

The  committee  for  auditing  the  accounts  of  the  Treasurer,  reported 
that  the  same  were  found  correct  in  all  particulars,  and  that  the  balance 
in  the  hands  of  the  Treasurer  amounts  to  $309,271. 

The  committees  for  the  examination  of  the  communications  presented, 
made  reports.  The  following  communications  were  recommended  to 
the  attention  of  Synod.  They  are:  1.  A  letter  from  Sherman's 
Valley,  in  which  the  congregation  in  Tolvin  Township  requests  that  it, 
with  others,  might  be  served  by  Candidate  Heim. 

Permission  was  granted  said  gentleman  to  take  charge  of  the  con- 
gregations. 

2.  A  letter  from  the  congregation  in  Strasburg,  near  Lancaster,  in 
which  they  ask  that  Candidate  Strein  be  allowed  to  serve  them. 

The  request  was  granted. 

3.  A  letter  from  Pastor  Henkel,  in  which  he  desires  that  the  State 
of  Virginia  might  constantly  be  supplied  with  more  German  preachers, 
and  laments  that  the  German  language  is  fast  losing  ground. 

4.  A  letter  from  Waldoborough,  in  the  District  of  Maine,  in  which 
a  preacher  is  asked  for,  who  can  preach  in  the  English  and  German 
languages. 

Resolved,  That  any  member  of  the  Ministerium  have  permission  to 
visit  and  take  charge  of  the  congregations. 

5.  A  letter  from  Pastor  Carpenter,  in  which,  besides  an  excuse  for 
absence,  he  presents  an  encouraging  report  of  his  ministrations. 

Resolved,  That  the  Senior  send  him  a  friendly  answer  to  his  letter. 

6.  Reports  of  Special  Conferences  at  Woodstock,  Virginia,  and  in 
the  State  of  Ohio,  and  transactions  of  the  Synodical  Meeting  in  North 
Carolina. 

No  special  action  was  taken  on  these. 

7.  A  memorial,  signed  by  a  number  of  members  of  St.  Michael's  and 
Zion's  congregations  in  Philadelphia,  who  desire  the  introduction  of 
the  English  language  in  their  congregations,  together  with  other  docu- 
ments for  the  explanation  and  support  of  their  request. 

These  communications  were  loudly  and  audibly  read  before  the 
whole  Synod,  and  were  listened  to  with  special  attention.  After  the 
reading  of  the  same,  a  counter-memorial  of  a  number  of  members  of 
said  congregations  was  treated  in  the  same  way.  These  declared  in 
conclusion  :  "  That  they  hold  that  no  earthly  tribunal  could  or  would 
ever  pass  judgment  upon  the  demand  of  their  opponents." 

Concerning  these  communications,  it  was  resolved  that  a  committee 


SIXTY-NINTH  CONVENTION,  1816.  489 

of  seven  men  be  appointed,  seriously  before  God,  to  consider  the  whole 
matter,  and  to  report  to  the  Synod  their  maturely- weighed  judgment, 
together  with  their  advice  in  the  matter.  Dr.  Kurtz,  Pastor  F.  Geisen- 
hainer,  Pastor  Schmucker,  Pastor  Muhlenberg,  and  Messrs.  Schmidt, 
Horn  and  Leitner  were  appointed  as  the  committee. 

8.  Report  of  Pastor  Dill,  as  traveling  preacher. 

9.  A  memorial  from  Mr.  Ziislein,  preacher  in  Cincinnati,  in  which 
he  depicts  the  condition  of  his  congregation,  and  applies  for  reception 
and  support. 

Resolved,  That  the  reception  of  preachers  belongs  to  the  Ministerial 
Meeting,  but  that  $20  be  appropriated  to  Mr.  Ziislein  from  the  Synod- 
ical  Treasury,  for  defraying  traveling  expenses  to  his  distant  dwelling- 
place. 

10.  Report  of  Candidate  Colson  as  traveling  preacher. 

A  committee  was  appointed  carefully  to  examine  the  same,  and  re- 
port how  much  is  still  due  Mr.  Colson  as  compensation  for  his  services. 
Business  was  concluded  with  prayer. 
This  evening  Pastor  Moller  preached  in  [St.]  Michael's. 

Tuesday,  9  a.m. 

After  prayer,  the  Synod  continued  to  go  through  the  reports  of  the 
committees  on  the  communications  which  were  handed  in.  These 
followed  : 

11.  A  request  of  the  congregation  in  Sherman's  Valley  (Cumberland 
County,  Pennsylvania)  for  a  preacher. 

Resolved,  That  the  preacher  at  Carlisle  might  serve  this  congregation. 

12.  A  communication  from  St.  John's  congregation  at  Hamburg, 
Zion's  Church  at  "Windsor,  Dunkel's  Church  in  Greenwich,  and  St. 
James'  Church  in  Lynn,  in  which  the  Synod  is  asked  to  appoint  Mr. 
Engel  as  their  preacher. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Engel  be  allowed  to  deal  with  this  call  according 
to  his  own  judgment. 

13.  Various  communications  from  congregations  in  the  regions  about 
Hagerstown,  Martinsburg,  Sheppardstown,  Williamsport,  etc.,  concern- 
ing a  young  man,  Backy  by  name,  mention  of  whom  had  already  been 
made  at  the  Synodical  Meeting  of  last  year. 

Resolved,  That  Pastors  Moller,  F.  D.  Schiiffer  and  Walter,  and 
Messrs.  Otto  and  Ziegler  be  constituted  a  committee,  carefully  to  exam- 
ine the  contents  of  these  communications,  and  report  on  the  same. 

14.  A  friendly  letter  from  the  Secretary  of  the  Lutheran  Synod,  in 
the  State  of  New  York,  the  contents  as  follows : 

1.  That    Dr.   Quitman,  or   in  case  he  is  prevented,  Mr.  Christian 


490  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Schaffer,  is  to  appear  as  representative  of  said  Synod  at  our  meeting 
of  this  year. 

2.  That  said  Synod  sends  us  as  a  present  their  new  Hymn  Book,  their 
Liturgy,  and  a  Catechism  (published  by  Dr.  Quitman),  all  in  the 
English  language. 

3.  That  said  Synod  has  resolved  to  celebrate  the  Jubilee  of  the  Re- 
formation on  the  first  Sunday  of  the  month  of  November,  in  the  year 
1817,  and  to  invite  us  and  the  Synod  of  North  Carolina  to  join  in  with 
them  for  this  purpose. 

Whereupon  it  was  resolved  : 

1.  That  hearty  thanks  be  conveyed  to  the  venerable  Synod  of  New 
York  for  the  gift  remitted. 

2.  That  Dr.  Schaffer  see  that  our  "  Magazin,"  beginning  with  the 
first  number,  neatly  bound,  be  delivered  to  said  Synod. 

3.  That  Dr.  Schaffer  appear  at  this  year's  meeting  of  said  Synod,  as 
representative  of  our  body. 

4.  That  with  reference  to  the  Jubilee  celebration,  we  unite  with  the 
New  York  Synod  in  so  far  that  we  would  hold  the  said  celebration  on 
the  31st  day  of  October,  it  being  the  exact  anniversary  of  the  Refor- 
mation ;  that  this  be  reported  to  said  Synod  by  Mr.  Schaffer,  and  they 
be  requested  to  keep  with  us  the  very  anniversary  itself,  and  not  the 
Sunday  following. 

Many  other  communications  before  were  submitted  to  the  committees, 
but  none  of  these  belong  to  the  Ministerial  Meeting,  and  some  contain 
mere  excuses  for  absence  from  the  brethren,  which  were  accepted,  attes- 
tations of  satisfaction,  which  are  heard  with  pleasure,  and  wishes  for 
blessing,  which  could  be  responded  to  with  thanks. 

The  committee  on  examination  of  Mr.  Colson's  report  as  traveling 
preacher  announced : 

That  Mr.  Colson,  who  had  been  charged  to  journey  to  Meadville, 
Crawford  County,  Pa.,  has  extended  his  trip  to  the  farthest  end  of  the 
State  of  Ohio. 

That  he  has  charged  the  whole  time  of  this  self-undertaken  journey 
to  the  debit  account  of  the  Synod. 

And  that,  with  this  debit  counted  in,  the  total  balance  in  Mr.  Colson's 
favor  amounts  to  something  over  $90. 

Hereupon  it  was  resolved,  that  instead  of  the  balance  presented,  $30 
be  appropriated  to  Mr.  Colson. 

The  business  of  this  morning  was  closed  with  prayer. 

Tuesday,  3  p.m. 
After  singing  and  prayer,  the  committee  appointed  to  examine  into 
the  Philadelphia  matter  presented  its  report.     It  reads  as  follows,  viz. ; 


SIXTY-NINTH   CONVENTION,  1816.  491 

The  committee,  as  before  God,  has  examined  the  communications 
transferred  to  it,  and  the  members  of  the  same  are  unanimously  of  the 
opinion  : 

1.  That  the  Synod  dare  not  omit  to  express  in  the  strongest  manner 
its  displeasure  at  the  controversy  in  the  Philadelphia  congregation,  and 
especially  at  the  unchristian  spirit  and  deportment,  which  both  of  the 
contending  parties  have  exhibited. 

2.  That  it  is  highly  to  be  lamented,  that  acts  of  violence  were  com- 
mitted, that  the  matter  was  brought  before  the  courts  instead  of  first 
laying  it  before  Synod  for  amicable  adjustment,  as  would  have  been 
proper. 

3.  Although  the  committee  does  not  condemn  preaching  in  the  Eng- 
lish language,  when  it  is  necessary,  yet  the  introduction  of  the  same  in 
the  German  Lutheran  congregation  in  Philadelphia  seems  to  it  to  be 
connected  with  so  many  important  circumstances  which  demand  the 
most  mature  consideration,  that  it  regards  the  time  of  the  continuance  of 
the  Synod  as  now  too  short  to  give  the  congregation  a  decisive  counsel. 

4.  The  committee  desires  that  the  Synod  recommend  to  both  parties 
in  the  name  of  the  Lord,  to  unite  again  in  peace  and  love  as  Christians 
and  brethren,  and  in  future  refrain  from  all  reciprocal  offences.  That 
the  Synod  likewise  offer,  if  both  desire  it,  to  give  them  its  advice 
hereafter. 

5.  Since  members  of  St.  John's  Evangelical  Lutheran  church  have 
sent  us  a  communication,  and  have  expressed  the  desire  that  we  should 
not  forget  them,  the  committee  is  of  the  opinion,  that,  in  case  the  Ger- 
man congregation  make  a  grant  to  those  brethren  who  prefer  the 
English,  such  grant  (the  church  and  concession)  be  the  common  pro- 
perty of  all  English  Lutherans  in  Philadelphia  ;  on  the  condition,  how- 
ever, that  St.  John's  church  return  to  our  connection. 

This  report  was  gone  through,  and  the  Synod  concurred  with  the 
contents  of  the  same,  but  with  the  almost  unanimous  declaration  that 
in  place  of  the  words  "does  not  condemn,"  in  the  third  section,  the 
words  "  can  not  condemn  "  be  inserted,  in  order  to  give  the  expression 
more  force. 

It  was  also  resolved,  that  the  amended  report  be  adopted,  and  that  a 
copy  of  the  same  be  handed  to  each  of  the  contending  parties. 

Two  letters  were  now  read  before  the  Synod,  one  from  Mr.  G.  Schiiffer, 
Baltimore,  and  one  from  Messrs.  Billmeyer,  Philadelphia. 

Mr.  Schafier  announces  that  he  intends  to  print  a  collection  of  hymns 
which  would  be  suitable  for  use  in  joint  Lutheran  and  Reformed 
churches,  and  desires  that  the  Synod  might  examine  the  collection  and 
authorize  the  use  of  the  same. 


492  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

But  the  Messrs.  Billmeyer,  as  publishers  of  the  hitherto  authorized 
Lutheran  Hymn  Book,  remonstrate,  and  ask  that  said  collection  of 
hymns  be  not  adopted  by  the  Synod. 

Concerning  this,  it  was  resolved  that  Messrs.  F.  Geisenhainer, 
Schmucker,  Endress,  Knoske  and  Hecht  constitute  a  committee  to 
examine  the  contents  of  said  collection  of  hymns,  to  see  whether  the 
same  are  in  accord  with  the  pure  doctrine  of  the  Gospel,  and  to  report 
their  opinion  of  the  matter  to  the  Secretary  of  the  Synod. 

The  committee  with  reference  to  Mr.  Backy  presented  its  report.  It 
was  read  and  the  whole  matter  was  referred  to  the  Ministerium. 

A  devout  prayer  closed  the  session  of  this  day. 

This  evening  Pastor  Jager  preached  in  St.  Michael's. 

Wednesday,  6  a.m. 

After  prayer,  it  was  resolved  that  during  the  coming  year  1500 
copies  of  the  "  Magazin  "  be  printed. 

Further  resolved,  that  this  time  it  be  left  to  the  Ministerium  to  name 
one  or  more  traveling  preachers,  if  it  be  deemed  necessary. 

Resolved,  that  out  of  the  Sy nodical  Treasury  there  be  sent  to  each 
of  the  poor  preachers'  widows  $12,  to  aged  Pastor  Butler,  820 ;  to  Pastor 
Stock,  610 ;  and  to  Pastor  Scriba,  $15. 

The  congregation  at  Lancaster  sent  a  contribution  of  $10  for  the 
support  of  poor  preachers  and  preachers'  widows. 

The  list  of  baptized,  confirmed,  communicants,  buried  and  schools, 
was  handed  in  as  follows,  namely  : 

Bap-  Con-       Commu-        De- 

Preachers,  tized.       firmed,     nicants.     ceased.    Schools. 

Dr.  Helmuth  and  |  _  34Q  ^  m  m  g 
bchaerer            ) 

Pastor  Kurtz 108  41  223  57  1 

"       Carpenter —  12  60  —  — 

"      Jager 123  61  396  29  12 

"      Lochmann    ....  123  32  345  46  3 

"       Endress 137  54  418  36  1 

"       Eothrauff 122  77  519  15  3 

"      Flohr 96  40  180  16  4 

Muhlenberg  ....  —  70  —  —  — 

"      H.  Geisenhainer  .    .  28  432  103  10  1 

"      Ilgen 150  120  897  8  — 

"      Herbst 195  71  330  31  3 

"      Moeller 145  77  336  41  2 

"       Roeller —  —  —  —  — 


SIXTY-NINTH  CONVENTION,  1816. 


493 


Bap- 

Con- 

Coram u- 

De- 

Preachers. 

tized. 

firmed. 

nicants. 

ceased. 

Schools 

.   224 

172 

1288 

74 

7 

<< 

Walter  .... 

194 

166 

532 

21 

8 

« 

.      92 

16 

234 

15 

4 

«( 

D.  F.  Schaefer  . 

.    215 

83 

643 

37 

1 

(« 

112 

40 

590 

26 

6 

.     55 

61 

129 

21 

1 

<< 

1G0 

68 

987 

43 

4 

II 

Ullrich    .    .    . 

166 

100 

1123 

55 

6 

(( 

163 

23 

164 

33 

5 

.     73 

30 

110 

20 

— 

,    161 

134 

410 

28 

4 

<« 

,    146 

65 

609 

21 

8 

« 

Osterloli .   .    . 

.    125 

20 

268 

8 

3 

c« 

187 

70 

473 

15 

3 

« 

Sackmann  . 

.     68 

17 

117 

11 

— 

(( 

Meendsen  .    . 

.    182 

87 

677 

85 

4 

<« 

Colsoa    .    . 

.    195 

18 

236 

5 

— 

(( 

Becker    .    . 

.     50 

32 

150 

37 

1 

(I 

Minnig   .    . 

.    194 

64 

693 

41 

6 

(( 

Tiedeman  . 

.   124 

38 

125 

25 

1 

(( 

"Weigandt  . 

.    .     98 

— 

290 

3 

— 

(( 

Hemping    .    . 

.   244 

108 

847 

32 

6 

(( 

Schindel     . 

.    150 

32 

770 

40 

4 

(( 

F.  Herbst  . 

.   381 

26 

108 

17 

5 

it 

Filbert   .    . 

.    135 

65 

537 

21 

3 

(I 

Probst    .    . 

.   227 

186 

750 

27 

6 

(( 

Wartnian  . 

.   188 

68 

686 

39 

7 

(( 

Morris    .    . 

.     42 

18 

186 

11 

2 

(( 

Rupert   .    . 

.     67 

29 

105 

18 

3 

u 

.     57 

27 

200 

3 

1 

<« 

.    .    170 

107 

578 

14 

3 

(( 

,    105 

40 

180 

30 

2 

u 

Kohler   .    . 

.    .     90 

— 

— 

26 

— 

«< 

Meyerheffer 

.    .    135 

65 

230 

16 

— 

The  time  and  place  of  next  year's  Synodical  Meeting  were  now  de- 
termined by  ballot,  namely :  The  time,  Trinity  Sunday  ;  the  place, 
York. 

The  Synodical  business  was  closed  with  singing  and  prayer,  and  the 
delegates  were  dismissed  with  best  wishes. 


494  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

MINISTERIAL  MEETING. 

Wednesday,  8.30  a.m. 


The  Senior  opened  this  meeting  with  an  earnest  prayer. 

Mr.  Merkel,  of  Geneva,  made  his  appearance  at  the  Ministerium. 

The  acknowledgment  of  the  Directors  of  the  Orphans'  Home  at 
Halle  of  the  money  sent  to  them  was  read.  The  amount  acknowledged 
was  $2130. 

The  committee  which  had  been  appointed  at  the  session  of  the  pre- 
vious year  to  improve  and  make  more  complete  the  Church  Agenda, 
reported  that  they  had  not  yet  accomplished  the  work  assigned  to  them. 

The  following  gentlemen  applied  for  reception  into  the  Ministerium, 
viz.  :  Philip  Braun,  Michael  Steck,  J.  Repas,  Christian  F.  Cruse, 
Heinrich  Backy,  J.  C.  Rebenack,  F.  Cramer  and  J.  Jiislein. 

The  Committee  of  the  Synod,  on  Mr.  Backy,  made  a  report,  which 
was  read,  and  the  men  who  appeared  on  his  account  as  deputies  of 
various  congregations,  were  heard. 

On  motion,  the  question  was  now  put :  Shall  the  Ministerium  have 
anything  to  do  with  Mr.  Backy  ?  To  which  the  majority  answered  Yea. 

Committees  were  also  appointed  to  examine  the  above-named  appli- 
cants. 

Upon  motion  it  was  resolved  that  (as  an  amendment  to  a  resolution 
adopted  at  Carlisle,  in  the  year  1812)  if  a  preacher  have  already  re- 
ceived formal  ordination  as  deacon,  by  the  laying  on  of  hands,  no  fur- 
ther formal  laying  on  of  hands  shall  be  deemed  necessary  to  advance 
him  to  the  office  of  a  pastor  ;  that,  therefore,  a  simple  declaration  of  the 
assembled  pastors,  through  the  President  or  Senior  of  the  Ministerium, 
shall  be  regarded  as  sufficient  for  this  purpose. 

Resolved,  That  Deacons  Hecht,  Miiller,  Vanhoff,  Ernst  and  Ulrich, 
if  they  pass  an  examination,  shall  be  advanced  to  the  grade  of  pastor. 

Resolved,  That  Candidates  Biitis,  Engel,  Meendsen,  Becker,  Sack- 
mann,  Schindel,  Miinnig,  Tiedemann,  Heim,  Sr.,  Hemping  and  Herbst, 
if  they  pass  the  examination,  shall  be  ordained  as  deacons.  Committees 
were  appointed  to  examine  the  deacons  and  candidates  named,  and  the 
session  of  this  morning  closed  with  prayer. 

3    P.M. 

After  prayer  it  was  resolved  to  recognize  Mr.  Joh.  C.  Rebenack  as 
brother  and  member  of  the  Ministerium.  He  was  called  in  and  the 
right  hand  of  fellowship  was  extended  to  him. 


SIXTY  NINTH  CONVENTION,  1816.  495 

Resolved,  That  the  Ministerium  give  Mr.  Cramer  another  trial  and 
again  grant  him  a  license,  but  with  the  understanding  that  if  ever 
again  well-grounded  complaints  come  up  against  him  the  Ministerium 
would  never  more  have  anything  to  do  with  him. 

The  committee  to  examine  Messrs.  Steck,  Repas  and  Backy  reported 
that  it  recommends  Mr.  Steck  for  a  license  as  candidate  and  Mr.  Repas 
for  one  as  catechist,  but  has  found  Mr.  Backy  most  deficient  in  every 
branch. 

Resolved,  That  a  candidate's  license  be  filled  out  for  Mr.  Steck  and  a 
catechist's  license  for  Mr.  Repas. 

The  committee  to  examine  Messrs.  Brown,  Cruse  and  Jager  reported 
that  they  recommend  Messrs.  Braun  and  Cruse  for  licenses  as  candi- 
dates and  Mr.  Jager  for  one  as  catechist. 

Resolved,  That  the  recommendation  be  adopted,  and  that  the  officers 
might  give  them  licenses  as  soon  as  they  have  received  calls. 

The  preachers  made  their  reports,  with  reference  to  the  sermons  and 
diaries  of  the  candidates  and  catechists,  which  had  been  handed  to  them 
the  previous  year  for  examination.  It  appeared  that  the  sermons  of 
Messrs.  Rudisill,  Filbert,  Schindel  and  Herbst  were  excellent,  and  the 
rest,  for  the  most  part,  good. 

The  committees  appointed  to  examine  the  previously  named  deacons 
and  candidates  found  them  all,  without  exception,  worthy  of  advance- 
ment. 

It  was  consequently  resolved  that  this  evening,  in  St.  Michael's 
Church,  Messrs.  Hecht,  Miiller,  Vanhoffi  Ernst  and  Ulrich  be  declared 
pastors,  and  Messrs.  George  Heim,  Biitis,  Engel,  Sackmann,  Meendsen, 
Becker,  Miiunig,  Tiedemann,  Hempiug,  Schindel  and  Herbst  be  or- 
dained to  the  office  of  Deacon. 

Concerning  Mr.  Backy,  it  was  resolved  that  he  be  advised  to  study 
with  Pastor  Ernst,  in  Lebanon,  or  any  other  ordained  preacher  of  our 
connection,  with  the  understanding  that  he  shall  by  no  means  be  per- 
mitted to  preach  without  consent  of  his  instructor. 

/.'■  'dved,  moreover,  That  the  Secretary  communicate  this  resolution 
to  him  in  writing. 

/•'■  solved,  finally,  That  if  he  needs  it,  and  asks  for  it,  $50  shall  be 
advanced  to  him  out  of  the  Synodical  Treasury. 

A  certain  man,  Lamprecht  by  name,  applied  for  reception  into  the 
Ministerium. 

After  some  conversation  with  him,  it  was  resolved  that  the  Minister- 
ium is  unwilling  to  have  anything  to  do  with  him. 

Ami  now  the  business  of  the  Ministerium  was  closed  with  singing 
and  prayer. 


496  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Wednesday  Evening  in  St.  Michael's. 

This  evening,  publicly  in  St.  Michael's,  before  a  crowded  assembly  of 
preachers  and  members  of  St.  Michael's  and  Zion's  congregations, 
Messrs.  Hecht,  Muller,  Vanhoff,  Ernst  and  Ulrich  were  formally  de- 
clared pastors  with  prayer,  and  the  invocation  of  the  divine  blessing. 

Following  this,  by  the  laying  on  of  hands  of  the  Reverend  Senior, 
the  President  and  Secretary  of  the  Synod,  and  also  of  the  Rev.  Dr. 
Schaffer,  Messrs.  Heim,  Batis,  Engel,  Sackman,  Meendsen,  Becker, 
Miinnig,  Tiedeman,  Hemping,  Schindel  and  Herbst,  were  likewise  sol- 
emnly ordained  deacons. 

And  now  the  Reverend  Senior  dismissed  the  brethren  and  the  con- 
gregation with  thanksgiving  and  blessings,  and  an  earnest  prayer. 

Attest :  Ch.  Endress, 

Secretary. 


SEVENTIETH  CONVENTION. 

1817- 


SYNODICAL  MEETING 
Held  at  Yorktown,  June  2d,  1817. 

Candidate  Probst  preached  Saturday  evening. 

On  Sunday,  it  being  the  Festival  of  the  Trinity,  the  preachers  and 
delegates  assembled  in  the  parsonage,  and  went  in  procession  to  the 
church,  where  the  Rev.  President  Lochman  preached. 

In  the  afternoon  Pastor  Endress  delivered  a  discourse,  and  in  the 
evening  Pastor  Muhlenberg. 

In  the  morning  Pastor  Jiiger  also  preached  in  the  Reformed  Church. 

Monday,  June  3d,  9  a.m. 

The  preachers  and  delegates  assembled  in  the  church. 
The  session  was  opened  with  singing  and  prayer. 

The  Following  Preachers  were  Present: 

1.  Dr.  Kurtz Baltimore. 

2.  Pastor  Jiiger Hanover. 

3.  "  Schmucker    ....  York. 

4.  "  Lochman Harrisburg. 

5.  "  Endress Lancaster. 

6.  "  RothraufT Greencastle. 

7.  •'  Grcb Taneytown. 

8.  "  Stanch New  Lisbon. 

9.  "  Griiber Middletown. 

10.  "  Miihienberg  ....  Reading. 

11.  "  Geisenhainer      .    .    .  Trappe. 

12.  "  Herbst,  Sr Manchester. 

13  "  Moller Chambersburg. 

14.  "      Knoske Kutztown. 

15.  "      Walter Selinsgrove. 

16.  "      Mensch Springfield. 

32  497 


498  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

17.  Pastor  Haas Mechanicstown. 

18.  "  D.  F.  Schaffer    .  .    .  Frederichtown. 

19.  "  Melzheimer    ....  McCallister. 

20.  "  Heine Macunshy. 

21.  "  Hecbt Easton. 

22.  "  Miiller Falconer  Swamp. 

23.  "  Ulrich Tulpehocken. 

24.  "  Vankoff     ....      Jonestown. 

25.  "  Ernst Lebanon. 

26.  "  Rebenack Martinsburg. 

27.  Deacon  Rehman Abbotstown. 

28.  "  Riemenscbneider    .  .  Rockingbam. 

29.  "  Batis Warwick. 

30.  "  Engel Hamburg. 

31.  "  Meendsen Lecha. 

32.  "  Becker Germantown. 

33.  "  Sackman Loudon. 

34.  "  Heim  .......  Buffalo. 

35.  "  Miinnig Pine  Grove. 

36.  "  Tiedeman Somerset. 

37.  "  Hemping Lykenstbal. 

38.  "  Herbst,  Jr York  County. 

39.  Candidate  Scriba Strassburg. 

40.  "  Osterlo      ....  Cumberland. 

41.  "  Rudisill    ....  York  County. 

42.  "  Dunn 

43.  "  Reck Winchester. 

44.  "  Filbert   .  .        .    .  New  Holland. 

45.  "  Probst Forks. 

46.  "  During Jordan. 

47.  "  Morris Wrightsville. 

48.  «  Rupert Plainfield. 

49.  "  Strein Elizabetbtown. 

50.  «  Heim,  Jr.     ...  Mifflin. 

51.  "  Kurtz Hagerstown. 

52.  «  Keller Carlisle. 

53.  "  Meyerheffer      .    .  Madison. 
54  "  Cramer     ....  Franklin. 

55.  Catecbist  Schneider  ....  New  Philadelphia. 

56.  Repas Pennsborough. 

33  were  absent. 


SEVENTIETH   CONVENTION,   1817.  499 

Accredited  Delegates  were: 

1.  Mr.  Dunkel York. 

2.  "  Kurtz      Harrisburg. 

3.  "  Muhlenberg Lancaster. 

4.  "  Clark Greencastle. 

5.  ''  Geiser Tawneytown. 

6.  "  Eyster New  Lisbon. 

7.  "  Kepner Reading. 

8.  "  Jiiger    ........  Trappe. 

9.  "  Matthews Manchester. 

10.  "  Rentschler Kutztown. 

11.  "  Walter Selinsgrove. 

12.  "  Appel Springfield. 

13.  "  Conrad Mechanicstown. 

14.  "'  Engelbrecht Friedrichtown. 

15.  "  Koppenheffer McAllister. 

16.  "  Briiunig Macungy. 

17.  "  Beiitelinan Easton. 

18.  "  Trexler Falconer  Swamp. 

19.  "  Ehrle Jonestown. 

20.  "  Embig Lebanon. 

21.  "  Wallbem Tulpehocken. 

22.  "  Schenk Blooinsburg. 

23.  "  Lenz Germantown. 

24.  "  Metzger Buffalo. 

25.  "  Stein Pinegrove. 

26.  "  Kleinfelder York  County. 

27.  "  Kiefer Cumberland. 

28.  "  Roth Forks. 

29.  "  Luffe Jordan. 

30.  "  Fries Wrightsville. 

31.  ';  Wenss Mifflin. 

32.  "  Eichelberner Hagerstown. 

33.  "  Schulz Carlisle. 

34.  "  Uz Madison. 

Accordingly,  the  whole  body  was  composed  of  ninety  members. 
The  Synod  proceeded  to  the  election  of  officers  for  this  year,  and 

Pastor  Loch  man  became  President. 
Pastor  Endrcss  became  Secretary. 
Pastor  Muhlenberg  became  Treasurer. 


500  DOCUMENTARY  HISTOEY. 

All  communications  were  now  handed  in,  numbered  and  divided 
among  six  committees,  who  were  charged  to  examine  the  same,  and 
to  report  on  their  contents  during  the  afternoon.  Hereupon  Pastors 
Schaffer  and  Ulrich  and  Mr.  Renschler  were  appointed  as  a  committee 
to  audit  the  accounts  of  the  Treasurer,  and  the  session  of  this  morning 
was  closed  with  prayer. 

Monday,  3  p.m. 

The  session  was  opened  with  singing  and  prayer. 

The  committee  which  was  appointed  to  audit  the  Treasurer's  accounts 
reported  that  it  had  found  the  same  correct  in  all  particulars,  and  that 
the  balance  in  the  Treasurer's  hands  amounts  to  $173.75. 

The  committees  which  were  appointed  to  examine  the  communica- 
tions which  had  been  handed  in,  presented  their  reports.  The  Synod 
considered  them,  and  gave  the  following  communications,  indicated  by 
numbers,  particular  attention,  namely : 

1.  A  report  of  the  Special  Conference  in  the  State  of  Ohio,  enclosing 
a  petition  that  they  might  be  granted  permission  to  form  their  own 
Ministerium  in  the  State  of  Ohio. 

Whereupon  it  was  resolved,  that  permission  could  not  be  granted  to 
the  Conference  of  Ohio  to  form  a  Ministerium  of  their  own,  but  that 
the  Ministerium  might  be  commissioned  to  draw  up  a  plan  through 
which  particular  difficulties  might  be  removed. 

Further  resolved,  that  an  answer  be  sent  to  said  Special  Conference, 
to  inform  them  of  our  ratification  of  their  transactions,  and  to  make 
known  to  them  the  resolution  of  Synod  wTith  reference  to  them. 

2.  An  urgent  request  from  a  number  of  Lutherans  in  Nelson  County, 
in  the  State  of  Kentucky,  that  the  Synod  provide  for  them,  and  send 
them  a  preacher  who  can  preach  in  the  English  language. 

Resolved,  That  it  is  the  desire  of  Synod  that  a  suitable  young  preacher 
be  found,  and  if  such  an  one  is  to  be  had,  who  could  and  would  under- 
take to  journey  thither,  he  should  accordingly  make  it  known  to  the 
President,  and  that  in  case  none  could  be  found,  a  traveling  preacher 
should  be  appointed  for  that  region. 

Pastor  D.  F.  Schaffer  was  appointed  to  answer  the  communication. 

3.  A  number  of  letters  concerning  Mr.  Backy,  in  some  of  which  com- 
plaints are  made  against  him  because  of  disturbances  in  the  congrega- 
tions in  and  about  Martinsburg,  while  the  others  are  letters  from  a  part 
of  the  congregations,  asking  that  he  might  serve  them  as  pastor. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Backy  cannot  serve  the  congregations  in  and 
about  Martinsburg  with  the  approval  of  Synod,  even  though  he  be 
received  into  the  Ministerium. 


SEVENTIETH  CONVENTION,  1817.  501 

A  request  from  congregations  in  Fairview  and  Newbury  that  they 
be  permitted  to  receive  Mr.  Osterloh  as  their  preacher. 
It  was  granted. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 
This  evening  Pastor  F.  D.  Schiiffer  preached. 

Tuesday,  June  4th,  9  a.m. 

After  a  hymn  and  prayer,  the  Synod  continued  to  pass  on  the  reports 
of  the  committees  concerning  the  communications  handed  in.  The 
communications  taken  up  were : 

5.  A  letter  from  Mr.  Ziislein,  Cincinnati,  concerning  the  needy  cir- 
cumstances of  himself  and  his  congregation. 

Concerning  this  it  wag  resolved,  that  the  President  answer  this  letter 
according  to  his  own  judgment. 

6.  A  letter  from  Rev  Mr.  Timothy  Alden,  in  which  he  reports  the 
death  of  Mr.  Colson,  and  the  needy  circumstances  of  the  surviving 
family,  and  also  solicits  a  preacher  for  the  congregation. 

For  the  present  resolved  that  any  brother  of  the  Ministerium  be 
privileged  to  take  charge  of  the  congregation  in  Meadville. 

7.  A  letter  from  the  congregations  of  Mr.  Repas,  in  which  they  com- 
municate their  satisfaction  with  their  preacher  and  express  the  desire 
that  he  be  licensed,  and  also  that  four  other  congregations  in  Northum- 
berland, namely  :  Vollmer's,  Milton,  Washington,  "SVarry  Run,  be 
given  him  in  addition,  and  a  request  from  the  already-mentioned  four 
congregations  that  they  might  be  served  by  Mr.  Repas. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Repas  be  permitted  to  take  charge  of  the  said 
four  congregations. 

8.  A  letter  from  Pastor  Zunkel,  to  which  he  requests  a  reply  con- 
cerning money  which  he  forwarded  the  previous  year  to  Pastor 
Schmucker  for  magazines. 

Resolved,  That  Pastor  Schmucker  answer  the  letter. 

9.  A  call  to  Mr.  Mohler  from  congregations  in  Beaver  County. 
Resolved,  That  if  Mr.  Mohler  pass  the  examination,  he  be  permitted 

to  take  charge  of  these  congregations. 

10.  A  call  to  Mr.  Schmuck  [Schmick]  from  a  congregation  in  Centre 
County. 

Resolved,  That  if  Mr.  Schmuck  pass  the  examination,  he  be  per- 
tnitted  to  take  charge  of  the  congregation. 

11.  A  call  from  four  congregations  in  Armstrong  County,  without 
designation    r  a  person. 

Mr.  Riemenschneider  promised  to  visit  the  congregations, 


502  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

12.  A  letter  from  Green  Township,  Scioto  County,  Ohio,  containing 
a  request  for  a  traveling  preacher. 

Resolved,  That  the  Special  Conference  in  Ohio  be  charged  to  provide 
for  a  visitation  of  this  congregation,  and  that  this  action  be  communi- 
cated to  the  writer  of  the  letter. 

13.  A  letter  from  a  congregation  of  St.  Peter's  Church,  near  the 
Lebanon  congregation,  in  Cumberland  County,  requesting  that  Mr. 
Heim  might  serve  them. 

Hereupon  Candidate  Keller  announced  that  he  was  willing  to  give 
up  two  congregations,  which  could  be  served  in  connection  with  this 
one,  and  that  there  was  still  another  congregation  vacant,  in  the 
vicinity. 

Resolved,  That  permission  be  granted  to  any  one  of  our  brethren  to 
visit  and  take  charge  of  these  congregations. 

14.  Letters  from  six  congregations  in  Columbia  County,  with  the 
request  that  Mr.  Peter  Hall  (at  present  an  applicant)  might  serve  them. 

Resolved,  That  if  Mr.  Hall  pass  the  examination  he  might  serve  these 
congi*egations. 

15.  A  call  to  Mr.  Schmuck,  at  present  an  applicant,  from  congrega- 
tions in  Centre  and  Huntingdon  Counties. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Schmuck,  provided  he  pass  the  examination, 
be  permitted  to  take  charge  of  Halbrend,  Spruce  Creek,  Sinking  Val- 
ley, Tyrone,  Newry  and  Prankstown,  and  to  serve  Petersburg  and 
Alexandria  by  visitation,  until  Huntingdon  be  again  provided  with  a 
preacher. 

Resolved,  That  any  one  of  our  brethren  be  permitted  to  visit  and 
take  charge  of  the  congregations  in  Huntingdon  and  those  in  connec- 
tion with  it. 

16.  A  request  from  a  number  of  former  members  of  the  Easton  con- 
gregation, who  now  live  above  Wilkesbarre,  to  be  served  occasionally 
by  Lutheran  preachers. 

Resolved,  That  the  Rev.  Messrs.  Hecht,  Meendsen  and  Probst  each 
be  requested  to  visit  the  said  people  once  during  this  year. 

17.  Mr.  Braun's  diary  as  traveling  preacher.  The  committee  had 
carefully  read  this  through  and  found  the  same  very  fine  and  satis- 
factory 

The  President  stated  in  this  connection,  that  through  this  journey, 
Mr.  Braun  had  contracted  a  disease  of  the  lungs,  with  which  he  was 
now  laid  up,  and  from  which  he  hardly  would  ever  recover  again. 

Resolved,  That  the  report  of  the  committee  be  adopted,  and  that, 
after  deduction  of  the  money  received  during  the  journey,  $35  per 
month,  for  three  months,  be  paid  out  to  Mr.  Braun. 


SEVENTIETH  CONVENTION,  1817.  503 

The  remaining  communications,  on  which  the  committees  reported, 
were  excuses  for  absence,  recommendations  of  various  preachers  and 
others  of  the  kind,  concerning  which  it  was  found  unnecessary  to  take 
action. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

3    P.M. 

After  prayer  the  following  resolutions  were  fully  considered  and 
adopted  : 

1.  Resolved,  That  the  Ministerium  be  requested  to  consider  whether 
traveling  preachers  should  be  sent  out  this  year,  and  whether,  in  case 
it  be  found  advisable,  to  appoint  the  same. 

2.  Resolved,  That  the  magazine  be  discontinued. 

3.  Resolved,  That  each  preacher  make  it  his  duty  to  lift  a  yearly 
contribution  for  the  Synodical  Treasury  in  each  of  his  congregations. 

4.  Resolved,  That  the  proceedings  of  Synod  be  put  into  print,  and 
that  the  empty  space  which  may  be  left  in  the  form  be  filled  up  with 
an  edifying  address. 

That  our  highly  esteemed  and  venerable  Senior  be  requested  to  fur- 
nish the  addition  which  may  be  needed. 

That  500  copies  of  the  proceedings  be  printed. 

That  one  copy  be  sent  to  each  Church  Council  of  our  United  Con- 
gregations and  one  to  each  preacher. 

That  the  President  and  Secretary  of  the  Synod  provide  for  said  pub- 
lication. 

6.  Resolved,  That  in  the  future  each  preacher  who  expects  to  be  ab- 
sent from  Synod,  shall  send  to  the  preacher  of  the  place  where  the 
Synod  is  to  meet,  notice  of  his  intended  absence  for  the  time,  together 
with  his  reason  for  the  same,  and  the  number  of  his  baptized,  con- 
firmed, communicants,  buried  and  schools,  post  free. 

6.  Resolved,  That  the  notice  of  the  Jubilee  Festival,  signed  by  the 
President  and  Secretary  of  the  Synod,  be  published  at  the  proper  time 
in  the  various  newspapers,  wherever  it  may  be  necessary. 

7.  Resolved,  That  812  from  the  Synodical  Treasury  be  sent  to  each 
needy  preacher's  widow. 

The  preachers  handed  in  the  report  of  baptized,  confirmed,  commu- 
nicants, buried  and  schools  as  follows,  namely  : 

Preachers. 

Doctor  Kurz 110 

Pastor  Jiiger 125 

"     Schmucker  .    .    . 


Bap- 

Con- 

Commu- 

De- 

tized. 

firmed. 

nicants. 

ceased. 

School* 

110 

— 

209 

58 

1 

1 25 

64 

650 

34 

12 

171 

112 

502 

53 

3 

504                                  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Bap-  Con-  Commu-  De- 
Preachers,                                tized.  firmed,  nicants.  ceased.  Schools. 

Pastor  Lochman 156  120  571  32  3 

"    Endress 154  70  436  37  1 

"     Rothrauf 79  32  403  22  2 

"     Flohr 103  21  149  12  3 

"     Grob 123  93  511  9  2 

"     Graber 43  —  98  15  — 

"     Muhlenberg   ....  160  70  540  32  3 

"     Geisenhainer,  Jr.   .    .    71  64  245  12  1 

"    Herbst,  Sr 175  37  325  32  3 

"     Moller 120  36  303  31  2 

"     Knoske 285  87  1316  62  6 

"    Walter 180  61  766  19  8 

"    Mensch 80  50  317  19  4 

"     Haas 82  —  139  20  — 

"     D.  F.  Schiiffer    ...  135  51  412  19  1 

"    Melsheimer 145  127  470  35  3 

"     Heine 104  66  618  24  4 

"     Hecht 70  —  148  18  — 

"    Miiller 180  108  1155  80  6 

"    Ulrich  ....••.  118  102  1000  32  6 

"    Vanhoff 104  81  570  33  3 

"    Ernst 104  55  525  47  4 

"     Rebenack 46  —  3  7  — 

Deacon  Rehmann 165  80  542  26  — 

"      Riemenschneider  .    .    34  22  206  11  2 

"      Weigant 57  41  460  8  1 

"      Batis 169  92  641  29  6 

"      Engel 130  30  450  28  4 

"      Meendsen 140  63  740  37  4 

"      Becker 75  28  135  43  2 

"      Sackman 55  —  78  10  1 

"      Heim 133  29  225  18  4 

"      Miinnig 154  61  584  37  6 

"      Tiedeman 88  20  120  10  1 

"      Hemping 284  57  874  20  7 

"      Sbindel 137  62  780  21  4 

"      Herbst,  Jr 103  54  342  28  4 

Candidate  Scriba 36  24  48  7  1 

Osterloh    ....  115  32  295  13  3 

"        Reck 120  55  470  20  — 


SEVENTIETH  CONVENTION,   1817.  505 

Bap- 

Preachcrs.  tized. 

Candidate  Leist 276 

Filbert 116 

Probst 223 

During 169 

Morris 31 

Rupert 119 

Strein 97 

Heim,  Jr 206 

Ben.  Kurz    ...  195 

Keller 233 

Meyerheffer  ...  126 

"         Cramer 65 

Catechist  Repas 127 

The  meeting  proceeded  to  the  choice  of  the  place  and  time  of  the 
next  Convention. 

Harrisburg  was  chosen  as  the  place,  Trinity  Sunday,  a.d.  1818,  the 
time. 

The  Synodical  Meeting  was  closed  with  the  singing  of  an  appropriate 
stanza,  and  an  earnest  prayer  by  the  President. 

Moreover  this  year's  meeting  was  dominated  (thanks  be  to  Him  from 
whom  cometh  down  every  good  gift  and  every  perfect  gift)  by  entire 
concord  and  fraternal  affection. 

Deacon  Becker  preached  this  evening. 


Con- 

Commu- 

De- 

firmed. 

nicants. 

ceased. 

Schools. 

112 

645 

18 

3 

73 

599 

14 

6 

52 

794 

92 

7 

— 

73 

18 

2 

20 

158 

20 

3 

80 

209 

15 

— 

69 

410 

21 

6 

73 

300 

20 

2 

193 

725 

11 

4 

— 

159 

7 

2 

— 

69 

5 

— 

— 

— 

16 

1 

MINISTERIAL  MEETING. 


"Wednesday  Morning,  June  4,  1817. 

The  President  opened  the  Ministerial  Meeting  with  a  devout  prayer. 

The  following  young  men  announced  themselves  as  applicants  for 
reception  into  the  Ministerium,  namely :  Messrs.  Heycr,  Kehler,  Stecher, 
Trumbaur,  Hall,  Schmuck,  Mohler  and  Kessler. 

Committees  were  appointed  to  examine  the  above  gentlemen,  namely : 

To  examine  the  first  four  :  Pastors  Jiiger,  Moller  and  Ernst. 

To  examine  the  following  two,  together  with  Catechists  Schneider  and 
Repas :  Pastors  Schaffer,  Knoske  and  Hecht. 


506  DOCUMENTARY  HISTOEY. 

For  the  examination  of  the  remaining  two :  Pastors  Graber,  Roth- 
rauf  and  Grob. 

With  reference  to  the  celebration  of  the  Jubilee,  the  Ministerium 
resolved  that  the  German  Evangelical  Reformed  Synod,  the  Moravians 
(Evangelische  Briider  Gemeinde),  the  English  Episcopal  and  Presby- 
terian Churches  shall  be  invited  by  our  President  to  celebrate  the 
Reformation  Festival  with  us. 

The  diaries  and  sermons  of  the  candidates  and  catechists  were  handed 
in,  and  distributed  for  examination. 

Concerning  the  Special  Conference  in  the  State  of  Ohio,  it  was 
resolved  that  the  ordained  preachers  of  the  Special  Conference  in  the 
State  of  Ohio,  or  a  majority  of  them,  be  allowed  to  license  applicants 
as  candidates  or  catechists,  and  to  renew  their  licenses  from  year  to  year. 

Resolved,  further,  that  after  this  each  candidate  and  catechist  in  Ohio 
shall  send  his  diary  and  one  sermon  to  the  Ministerium  Meeting  each 
year. 

The  complaints  against  Mr.  Backy  were  now  given  full  consideration, 
and  it  was  resolved  that  for  the  present  the  Ministerium  can  have 
nothing  more  to  do  with  him,  and  that  the  President,  together  with 
Pastor  Schmucker,  inform  Mr.  Backy  of  this  action,  and  advise  him  in 
a  conscientious  and  affectionate  manner. 

This  morning's  session  closed  with  singing  and  prayer. 

Wednesday,  3  p.m. 

After  prayer,  it  was  resolved  that  Mr.  Sackmann  be  permitted  to 
accept  the  congregations  which  the  late  Pastor  Butler  had  served. 

The  preachers,  to  whom  the  sermons  and  diaries  of  the  candidates 
and  catechists  had  been  given  at  the  previous  year's  session  for  exami- 
nation, presented  reports  on  them,  which  commended  them,  almost 
throughout. 

The  reports  concerning  the  diaries  and  sermons  distributed  for  exami- 
nation this  morning  were  also  of  such  a  character  that  the  Ministerium 
had  good  reason  to  be  pleased  with  them. 

The  committees  which  were  appointed  to  examine  the  applicants  pre- 
sented reports,  in  accordance  with  which  it  was  resolved : 

I.  That  Mr.  Heyer  be  received  and  accepted  as  candidate,  and  that 
the  President  and  Secretary  give  him  a  letter  of  recommendation  to 
Meadville. 

II.  That  Mr.  Stecker  also,  as  candidate,  be  likewise  recommended  to 
Pittsburg. 

III.  That  Mr.  Kehler,  as  candidate,  be  put  in  charge  of  the  Poplar 
Spring  congregation. 


SEVENTIETH  CONVENTION,   1817.  507 

IV.  That  Mr.  Trumbaur,  as  candidate,  be  recommended  to  Blooms- 
burg. 

V.  That  Catechists  Schneider  and  Repas  be  advanced  to  the  grade 
of  candidate. 

VI.  That  Messrs.  Hall,  Mohler  and  Kessler  be  licensed  as  candidates. 

VII.  That  Mr.  Schmuck  be  received  as  catechist,  under  the  super- 
vision of  Pastor  Walter. 

Pastor  Muhlenberg  was  then  appointed  to  examine,  when  occasion 
offers,  two  young  men  who  were  not  present,  who  had  made  application, 
and  to  license  the  one,  young  Mr.  Geisenhainer  as  candidate  ad  interim 
for  Vincent,  if  he  be  found  capable ;  and  the  other,  Mr.  Muller,  on  the 
same  condition,  as  catechist  under  the  supervision  of  Pastor  Muller. 

Resolved,  That  the  Rev.  Mr.  Christian  Schiiffer,  who  was  ordained  in 
the  State  of  New  York,  be  acknowledged  as  an  ordained  member,  since 
there  is  no  doubt  as  to  his  capabilities. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

In  the  evening  Pastor  Muller  preached. 

Thursday,  June  5th,  6  a.m. 

After  an  earnest  prayer,  it  was  resolved  that  this  evening  in  the 
church  Candidates  Reck,  Filbert,  Probst  and  Doring  be  publicly  or- 
dained as  deacons. 

Certain  money  matters  were  settled  with  the  Treasurer  by  the  mem- 
bers of  the  Ministerium,  and  documents  were  filled  out  by  the  President 
and  Secretary,  and  then  the  session  closed  with  prayer. 

Thursday,  9  a.m. 

After  prayer,  and  more  discussion,  it  was  resolved  that  the  licenses 
of  all  candidates  who  are  not  about  to  be  advanced  to  the  grade  of 
deacon,  and  the  catechists'  licenses  of  Messrs.  Walter  and  Jiiger  be 
renewed. 

Resolved,  That  no  traveling  preachers  can  be  sent  out  this  year, 
because  of  a  lack  of  funds  in  the  treasury. 

R  'dved,  That  the  matter  of  the  Agenda  be  referred  to  a  committee 
of  twelve  pastors  to  complete  the  Agenda ;  before  they  take  final  action 
on  it,  to  hand  it  over  to  our  venerable  Senior  for  examination,  and  then 
to  conclude  the  whole  matter,  and  to  put  the  Agenda  produced  in  this 
way  through  the  press. 

The  committee  appointed  for  this  purpose  are  Messrs.  Kurtz,  D.D., 
Schiiffer,  D.D.,  Jiiger,  Schmucker,  Geisenhainer,  Sr.,  Lochmann,  En- 
dress,  Rothrauf,  Muhlenberg,  Knoske,  Heine  and  Muller. 


50S  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

This  committee  resolved,  in  the  presence  of  the  Ministerium,  to  meet 
in  Baltimore,  the  second  Thursday  of  the  coming  September. 

Finally  $3  were  granted  out  of  the  Rodelheim  legacy  to  each  of  the 
needy  preachers'  widows  in  addition  to  the  already  appropriated  $12. 

Then  the  Ministerium  was  adjourned  with  singing,  prayer  and  bene- 
diction. 

In  the  evening  the  appointed  ordinations  were  publicly  held.  A 
solemn  quiet  ruled  over  the  assembled  multitude,  as  the  President, 
together  with  the  Secretary  and  Dr.  Kurtz,  ordained  the  above  men- 
tioned gentlemen  as  deacons,  by  the  laying  on  of  hands,  and  handed 
their  licenses,  with  admonitions  and  benedictions,  to  the  candidates  and 
catechists. 

May  the  blessing  of  our  great  and  gracious  Lord  and  Head  rest  upon 
us  and  our  transactions. 

That  the  above  is  a  correct  transcript  of  the  transactions  of  the 
Synodical  and  Ministerial  Meetings  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Synod 
of  Pennsylvania  and  Adjacent  States,  for  the  year  1817,  is  hereby  cer- 
tified. 

Christian  Endress, 

Secretary. 


SEVENTY-FIRST  CONVENTION. 

1818. 


SYXODICAL  MEETING. 

Held  in  Harrisbtjrg,1  during  Trinity  Week  op  the  Year  1818. 

On  Trinity  Sunday,  May  17,  1818,  the  attending  preachers  and  dele- 
gates met  in  the  parsonage  and  went  in  procession  to  the  church.  Sec- 
retary Endress  preached.  At  the  same  time  Pastor  Rothrauf  preached 
in  the  Reformed  Church. 

In  the  afternoon  Mr.  Becker  preached  in  the  Lutheran  and  Pastor 
Schaffer  in  the  Reformed  Church. 

In  the  evening  Pastor  Muhlenberg  preached. 

Monday,  May  18th,  9  a.m. 

The  preachers  and  delegates  met  in  the  church.  The  session  was 
opened  with  singing  and  prayer. 

The  Following  Preachers  were  Present  : 

Dr.  Kurtz Baltimore. 

Pastor  Jager Allentown. 

"      Sehmucker    .    .    .  York. 

"      Geisenhainer,  Sr.  .  Muskanon. 

"      Lochman  ....  Ilarrisburg. 

"      Endress     ....  Lancaster. 

"      Rothrauf  ....  Greencastle. 

"       Graber Middletown. 

"      Muhlenberg      .    .  Reading. 

"      Geisenhainer,  Jr.  .  Pottsgrove. 

"      Herbst,  Sr.    .    .    .  Manchester. 

1  At  the  celebration  of  the  eightieth  birthday  of  the  late  Eev.  C.  W.  Schaeffer, 
D.D.,  LL.D.,  in  the  Theological  Seminary  at  Mt.  Airy,  Philadelphia,  May  5th, 
1893,  Dr.  Schaeffer  related  his  recollection  of  the  procession  of  carriages  contain- 
ing the  members  of  Synod,  that  entered  Ilarrisburg  in  a  body,  before  this  conven- 
tion. 

509 


510 


DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 


Pastor  Menscli      .    .    . 

.  Springfield. 

« 

.  Mechanicstown. 

u 

Schaffer     .    .    . 

.  Frederick. 

<< 

.  Gettysburg. 

« 

Hecht    .    .    .    . 

.  Easton. 

<< 

Mailer  .    .    .    . 

c< 

.  Tulpehocken. 

« 

.  Lebanon. 

«< 

Rebenack 

.  Huntingdon. 

Deacon  Kessler     .    . 

.  Cumberland. 

« 

Engel  .    .    .    . 

Bloomsburg. 

« 

Meendsen     . 

.  Lehigh. 

a 

Becker     .    .    . 

.  Germantown. 

a 

Miinnig    .    . 

.  Pinegrove. 

(i 

Hemping 

.  Ly  ken's  Valley. 

<< 

Schindel  .    .    . 

.  Sunbury. 

a 

Herbst,  Jr  .    . 

.  York  County. 

u 

Filbert      .    . 

.  New  Holland. 

« 

Probst      .    . 

.  Forks. 

1    ;QTlnif'fl^    ^nvi  nn 

a 

Osterloh   . 

.  Cumberland  County 

« 

Wortmann. 

.  Lehigh  County. 

u 

Ruppert  . 

.  Plainfield. 

a 

Strain  .    . 

.  Elizabethtown. 

u 

Heim    .    . 

.  Mifflin. 

« 

Kurtz  .    . 

.  Hagerstown. 

« 

Keller  .    . 

.  Carlisle. 

« 

Meyerheffer 

.  Madison. 

a 

1     ,VO  TYl£H* 

« 

Repas  .    . 

.    .  Pennsborough. 

(< 

Heyer  .    . 

.  Meadville. 

« 

Stecher     . 

.    .  Macungy. 

a 

Kobler 

.    .  Martinsburg. 

a 

Trumbauer 

.  Leacock. 

u 

tK   OCfl  I£1T* 

« 

Hall      .    . 

.    .  Catawissa. 

« 

Geisenhaine] 

:   .  Pikeland. 

« 

German    . 

.  Womelsdorf. 

Cateckist  Schmick    . 

.  Sinking  Valley. 

u 

Miiller  .    . 

.    .  Newstore. 

Forty-seven  were  absent. 


SEVENTY-FIRST  CONVENTION,    1818.  511 

Accredited  Delegates  of  the  Congregations  were: 

Mr.  Reppert Baltimore. 

"  Appel Allentown. 

"  Nes York. 

"  Kunkel Harrisburg. 

"  Kurtz Lancaster. 

"  Kisecker Greencastle. 

"  Bickel Reading. 

"  Yerger Pottsgrove. 

"  Nees Manchester.  , 

"  Muller Mechanicstown. 

"  Ebert Frederich. 

"  Barnet Easton. 

"  Breitenbach  ....  Tulpehocken. 

"  Beaver Lebanon. 

"  Wunderlich  ....  Cumberland. 

"  Kleppinger    ....  Lehigh. 

"  Duy Germantown. 

"  Lenkert Lyken's  Valley. 

"  Leissenring    ....  Sunbury. 

"  Muller    • Cumberland. 

"  Deily Plainfield. 

"  Hall Elizabethtown. 

"  Reist Mifflin. 

"  Schumann      ....  Hagerstown. 

"  Hummerich  ....  Carlisle. 

'*  Haner Pennsborough. 

"  Carr Macungy. 

"  Matter Martinsburg. 

"  Probst Catawissa. 

"  Schaffer Sinking  Valley. 

"  Freytag Pikeland. 

"  Degler Womelsdorf. 

The  last  named,  Messrs.  Freytag  and  Degler,  were  present  as  mem- 
bers, with  the  privilege  of  a  seat.  Accordingly,  the  whole  body  of 
members  having  the  right  to  vote  'was  composed  of  seventy-nine  persons. 

The  Synod  proceeded  to  the  election  of  officers  for  this  year. 

Pastor  Lochman  became  President. 
"       Endress  became  Secretary. 
"      Muhlenberg  became  Treasurer. 


512  DOCUMENTAKY  HISTORY. 

All  communications  were  called  in,  numbered  and  divided  among 
five  committees,  which  were  charged  to  examine  the  same,  and  to  re- 
port on  their  contents  during  the  afternoon. 

Pastors  Schaffer  and  Heine  and  Mr.  Breitenbach  were  appointed  a 
committee  to  audit  the  accounts  of  the  Treasurer. 

The  proceedings  of  the  meeting  of  the  previous  year  were  read. 

It  was  resolved,  that,  for  the  sake  of  convenience,  and  for  the  easier 
dispatch  of  business,  the  preachers  shall  sit  during  the  meeting,  in  front 
of  the  President,  from  his  left  to  his  right,  according  to  the  order  of 
their  seniority  in  office,  and  shall  retain  the  seats  which  they  have  once 
taken,  until  the  adjournment  of  the  Synod. 

The  session  was  closed  with  singing  and  prayer. 

Monday,  3  p.m. 

The  session  was  opened  with  singing  and  prayer. 

The  committee  to  audit  the  accounts  of  the  Treasurer  reported  that 
they  had  found  the  same  correct,  and  that  the  balance  in  the  hands  of 
the  Treasurer  amounts  to  $235. 35J,  but  that  in  this  sum  there  are  $20 
of  bad  money. 

The  committees  to  examine  the  communications  sent  in  presented 
their  reports.  The  Synod  duly  considered  them.  The  following,  in- 
dicated by  numbers,  demanded  special  notice,  namely : 

1.  A  request  from  Morlach  and  Benjamin's  Churches,  in  Maryland. 
They  desire  to  have  Mr.  Griiber,  Jr.,  as  their  preacher. 

It  was  resolved,  that  if  Mr.  Graber  pass  the  examination,  he  be  per- 
mitted to  accept  these  congregations. 

2.  A  communication  from  Cumberland,  Maryland.  The  congrega- 
tion asks  for  a  preacher,  and  promises  him  respectable  support. 

Resolved,  That  any  preacher  of  our  connection  be  allowed  to  visit 
and  accept  the  congregation. 

Resolved,  further,  That  if,  within  this  month,  there  be  no  preacher 
found  for  this  congregation,  that  the  neighboring  preachers  are  hereby 
requested  to  preach  there  for  a  time  on  a  visit 

3.  An  affectionate  and  fraternal  letter  from  our  venerable  Senior,  in 
which,  among  other  matters,  he  makes  excuse  for  the  absence  of  him- 
self and  his  congregation. 

The  letter  was  read,  and  it  was  moved  that  the  President,  in  the 
name  of  the  Synod,  answer  it. 

4.  A  letter  from  Mr.  Zentler  (printer),  in  which  he  states  that  he 
still  has  a  large  number  of  Magazines  on  hand,  and  desires  to  know 
to  whom  the  same  shall  be  delivered. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Zentler  be  requested  to  keep  these  Magazines 


SEVENTY-FIRST  CONVENTION,    1818.  513 

until  the  next  Synod,  on  the  condition  that  he  deliver  up  as  many  as 
may  be  demanded  upon  the  order  of  Mr.  Peter  Lex,  and  that  the 
preachers  who  would  like  to  have  any  of  these  Magazines  might  apply 
to  Mr.  Lex. 

5.  Mr.  Zentler's  account  with  reference  to  the  Magazine. 

Pastors  Muhlenberg,  Schiifier  and  Hecht,  and  Messrs.  Nes  and  Kurz, 
were  appointed  a  committee  to  audit  the  accounts,  and  report  on  the 
same. 

6.  A  memorial  from  a  part  of  St.  Michael's  and  Zion's  congregations 
in  Philadelphia. 

Pastors  ^Schmucker,  Geisenhainer,  Sr.,  Muhlenberg  and  Endress, 
and  Messrs.  Nes,  Appel  and  Duy,  were  appointed  a  committee  fully  to 
consider  the  whole  matter,  and  make  a  report. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

This  evening  Pastor  Jager  preached. 

Tuesday,  9  a  m. 

After  a  hymn  and  prayer,  two  letters  were  read.  They  had  been 
addressed  to  our  President  the  previous  fall,  in  reference  to  the  Jubilee 
celebration  ;  the  one  by  the  Rev.  Bishop  White,  D.D.,  of  Philadelphia; 
the  other  by  the  Rev.  Bishop  Reichel,  of  Bethlehem.  The  Synod  re- 
joiced at  the  Christian  fraternal  affection  and  the  high  regard  for  the 
fathers  of  the  Reformation  which  were  manifested  in  both  letters. 

There  now  appeared  before  the  Synod  the  Rev.  Messrs.  H.  Hofmeier, 
C.  AVack  and  W.  Hendel,  as  a  delegation  from  the  Evangelical  Re- 
formed Synod  of  this  State,  and  presented  a  communication,  the  contents 
of  which  are  as  follows  : 

"  Extract  from  the  Protocol  of  the  Evangelical  Reformed  Synod  held 
in  Yorktown,  September  9,  1817. 

"  No.  5.  On  motion  of  Mr.  Sam.  Helfenstein  that,  because  of  the 
increase  and  growth  of  our  congregations,  efforts  should  be  made  to 
provide  an  institution  for  the  education  of  young  preachers. 

"Resolved,  That  a  committee  be  appointed  to  consider  the  matter, 
and  to  lay  their  conclusions  before  the  Synod  this  afternoon. 

"And  on  September  10th: 

"  No  II.  The  committee  to  inquire  into  the  matter  of  the  erection  of 
a  Seminary  (Schulanstalt)  presented  their  conclusions,  whereupon 

"Resolved,  To  postpone  the  matter  for  closer  examination,  as  it  is  too 
important  to  be  taken  up  in  haste. 

"No    III.  The  committee  reported  further,  that  a  committee  of 
three  should  be  appointed  to  confer  with  a  committee  of  the  Lutheran 
Synod 
33 


514  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

11  Resolved,  That  Messrs.  Hendel,  Hofmeier  and  Wack,  Sr.,  be  the 
committee  to  the  Lutheran  Synod. 
"Signed, 

"  Henrich  Hofmeier,  Secretary  pro  temP 

Mr.  Hofmeier  explained  the  whole  matter  somewhat  more  in  detail 
to  the  Synod. 

Thereupon  Resolved,  That  a  committee  be  appointed  to  confer  with 
our  brethren  of  the  venerable  Reformed  Synod  concerning  the  proposed 
plan. 

Messrs.  Schmucker,  Jager  and  Muhlenberg  were  appointed  on  this 
committee. 

The  committee  appointed  yesterday  on  the  Philadelphia  business 
made  the  following  report,  namely  : 

The  undersigned  members  of  the  committee  have  the  honor  to  lay 
the  following  report  before  the  Synod  : 

1.  The  petition  of  Messrs.  Peter  Lex  and  Joh.  Lang,  and  the  com- 
munication handed  to  the  Synod  by  them,  according  to  our  opinion, 
consists  of  two  parts. 

First.  That  the  Synod  may  permit  the  preachers  of  its  connection 
occasionally  to  preach  in  the  Academy  in  the  English  language  for  the 
younger  members  of  the  Philadelphia  congregation  who  do  not  under- 
stand the  German  language. 

Second.  That  the  Synod  may,  in  general,  advise  the  English  con- 
gregation in  Philadelphia  what  the  Synod  believes,  in  the  presence  of 
Jesus  Christ,  should  be  done  in  the  Philadelphia  congregation,  in  their 
present  most  distressed  circumstances. 

2.  After  mature  consideration,  the  committee  recommends  to  the 
Synod  the  following  action  : 

(1.)  Resolved,  That  the  Synod  would  act  most  imprudently,  would 
permit  a  dangerous  innovation,  and  would  do  injustice  to  our 
esteemed  and  venerable  fathers  in  Philadelphia,  if,  without  the  consent 
of  said  fathers,  we  would  give  to  any  visiting  brother  Synodical  right 
and  authority,  under  any  circumstances,  to  preach  in  the  Philadelphia 
congregation,  or  to  perform  other  ministerial  acts. 

(2.)  Resolved,  That  the  Synod,  however,  from  time  to  time,  is  becom- 
ing more  and  more  convinced  that  the  saving  doctrine  of  our  Lord, 
according  to  the  principles  of  our  Evangelical  Church,  should  be  brought 
and  preached  to  the  younger  portion  of  the  Philadelphia  congregation 
in  the  English  language. 

(3.)  Resolved,  That  the  Synod  issue  to  the  congregation  and  Church 
Council  in  Philadelphia  an  urgent  and  earnest  request,  that  they  should 


SEVENTY-FIRST  CONVENTION,    1818.  515 

seriously  see  to  it  that,  without  injury  to  the  German  service,  the  in- 
struction aud  edification  of  the  younger  portion  of  the  congregation,  in 
the  English  language,  be  introduced,  without  causing  a  still  greater 
separation  of  the  congregation  by  continued  refusal. 

(4.)  Resolved,  That  the  Synod  would  regard  it  as  praiseworthy  if,  in 
order  to  satisfy  the  demand,  St.  Michael's  Church  would  be  appointed 
for  the  holding  of  divine  service  in  the  English  language. 

Signed  by 

J.  George  Scfimucker, 
Fr.  "W.  Geisenhainer, 
Christian  Endress, 
Henr.  A.  Muhlenberg, 

WlLHELM    NES, 

JonANN  K.  Duy. 

The  above  proposed  resolutions  were  fully  considered  in  the  Synod, 
item  by  item,  and,  the  roll  being  called,  they  were  adopted  almost 
unauimously  as  the  resolutions  of  the  assembled  Synod.  It  was  also 
resolved,  that  the  urgent  request  provided  for  in  the  above  resolutions 
shall  be  prepared  by  Pastor  Schmucker,  and,  together  with  the  resolu- 
tions, shall  be  sent  to  the  Philadelphia  congregation  and  its  Church 
Council. 

7.  From  various  reports  of  the  committees  for  the  examination  of 
the  communications  transmitted  to  the  Synod,  it  appeared  that  several 
preachers  and  congregations  have  neither  brought  nor  sent  any  contri- 
bution for  the  Synodical  Treasury  ;  whereupon, 

Resolved,  That  those  preachers  who  had  lifted  no  contribution  be 
requested  to  do  it  as  soon  as  possible,  and  to  transmit  the  same  to  the 
Treasurer. 

8.  A  memorial  from  several  congregations  in  Huntingdon  County, 
in  which  it  is  stated  that  Mr.  Schmick  is  serving  too  many  congrega- 
tions, and  is  unwilling  to  give  up  any,  in  consequence  of  which  Pastor 
Rebenack  is  unable  to  obtain  adequate  support  in  Huntingdon. 

Resolved,  That  the  investigation  of  this  matter  be  referred  to  Messrs. 
Roth rau f,  Meendsen,  Haas,  Lengert  and  Kisecker. 
This  morning's  session  was  closed  after  a  prayer. 

Tuesday,  3  p.m. 
Prayer  was  offered. 

9.  Various  communications  from  Macungy,  and  the  congregations 
connected  with  Macungy.  The  latter  have  accepted  Mr.  Steckcr  as 
their  preacher;  the  former  is  not  itself  united,  nor  does  it  agree  with 
the  other  congregations.     They  request  a  decision  of  the  Synod. 


516  DOCUMENTAKY  HISTORY. 

Resolved,  To  refer  the  closer  examination  of  tills  matter  to  Messrs. 
Schmucker,  Graber,  Meendsen,  Ruppert  and  Kurz. 

Here  the  committee  concerning  Mr.  Schmick  reported  as  follows : 

"After  sufficient  inquiry,  it  was  found  that  Mr.  Schmick  is  serving 
but  six,  and  not  eleven  congregations. 

"Resolved,  That  Mr.  Rebenack  and  Mr.  Schmick  both  preach  in  the 
Wasserstrassen  congregation,  make  arrangements  for  a  public  election, 
and  the  one  elected  by  a  majority  of  votes  shall  serve  the  charge." 

(2.)  "Resolved,  That  in  case  the  majority  of  the  Wasserstrassen  con- 
gregation decide  upon  Mr.  Schmick,  Mr.  Schmick  shall  resign  the 
Eckstown  congregation  in  favor  of  Mr.  Rcbenack." 

(3.)  "  Resolved,  That  Mr.  Rebenack  shall  visit  and  take  charge  of 
the  vacant  congregation  at  Huntingdon." 

The  resolutions  of  this  report  were  adopted. 

The  committee  on  Mr.  Zentler's  accounts  also  reported  that  the  same 
balance,  but  that  the  committee  was  unable  to  propose  definite  action 
because  it  has  not  a  full  insight  into  the  matter. 

The  day's  session  was  closed,  as  usual,  with  prayer. 

Pastor  Ernst  preached  this  evening. 

Wednesday,  8  p.m. 

Opened  with  singing  and  prayer. 

The  committee  to  examine  into  the  Macungy  matter  reported,  accord- 
ing to  which,  after  the  delegates  of  the  congregations  in  question  had 
been  heard,  the  following  resolutions  were  adopted,  viz. : 

Resolved,  That  the  congregation  in  Macungy  be  advised  to  hold  a 
new  election,  and  if  Mr.  Stecker  be  again  elected  by  a  majority  of  the 
members,  the  minority  shall  not  be  allowed  to  make  further  objec- 
tions. 

Resolved,  That  this  must  not  be  an  election  between  Mr.  Stecker  and 
some  other  preacher,  but  that  the  votes  must  be  cast  either  "  yea  "  or 
"  nay,"  whether  Mr.  Stecker  shall  or  shall  not  be  their  pastor. 

Resolved,  That  a  neighboring  preacher  be  charged  to  be  present  at 
the  election. 

Resolved,  That  Pastor  Meendsen  shall  be  the  said  preacher  who  is  to 
attend  the  election. 

Resolved,  That  the  election  be  appointed  for  next  Sunday  five  weeks, 
and  only  such  shall  be  allowed  to  vote  who  have  partaken  of  the  Holy 
Communion  with  the  congregation,  and  have  contributed  to  the  con- 
gregation, within  the  last  two  years  of  Pastor  Heine's  pastorate. 

The  committee  which  had  been  appointed  yesterday  to  confer  with 
the  committee  of  the  Evangelical   Reformed  Synod,  and  devise  ways 


SEVENTY-FIRST  CONVENTION,   1818.  517 

and  means  for  the  founding  of  a  joint  Institution  of  Learning,  in  order 
to  train  young  men  in  the  future  for  the  ministry,  presented  the  follow- 
ing report : 

1.  That  they  have  acted  according  to  their  instructions,  and  have 
ascertained  that  in  the  city  of  Lancaster  there  is  an  institution  known 
by  the  name  of  Franklin  College,  which,  in  the  year  1787,  was  given 
to  the  German  Lutheran  and  Reformed  Churches  for  this  purpose,  and 
to  which  a  present  of  10,000  acres  of  land  had  been  given. 

2.  That  the  committee  greatly  lament  that  this  institution  has  been 
so  much  neglected  thus  far,  and  thereby  the  purpose  which  the  State, 
from  the  beginning,  had  intended  it  to  serve  has  been  frustrated. 

3.  That  the  committee  has  carefully  examined  the  charter  of  this  in- 
stitution, and  has  found  it  necessary  to  recommend  that  the  President 
of  the  same  be  instructed  to  call  a  general  assembly  of  all  the  Trustees 
of  the  same. 

4.  That  Messrs.  Hofmeyer  and  Endress  shall  see  that  this  convoca- 
tion be  brought  about. 

5.  That  a  committee  shall  be  appointed  by  both  Synods  in  common, 
to  prepare  a  plan,  according  to  which  the  above-mentioned  institu- 
tion can  best  be  reconstructed  (eingerichtet)  for  the  above-mentioned 
purpose. 

This  report  was  fully  approved,  and  Messrs.  Schmucker,  Lochmann, 
Geisenhainer,  Sr.,  Endress  and  Muhlenberg  were  appointed  a  commit- 
tee, in  accordance  with  the  5th  section  of  the  report. 

The  contributions  of  the  congregations  to  the  Synodical  Treasury  were 
now  gathered.  The  whole  sum  of  the  collected  contributions,  the 
money  received  for  Magazines,  and  the  loans  paid  back  by  such  men  as 
had  been  aided  by  the  Synod  during  their  years  of  study,  amounted  to 
$585.30. 

It  was  resolved,  that  it  be  left  to  the  Ministerium  whether  a  traveling 
preacher  shall  be  appointed  this  year. 

Reso Ived,  That  the  publication  of  the  Church  Agenda  and  Ministerial 
Order  be  paid  for  out  of  the  Synodical  Treasury. 

Resolved,  That  S12  be  sent  to  each  needy  preacher's  widow  out  of  the 
Synodical  Treasury. 

Resolved,  Finally,  that  the  Synod  thinks  it  were  desirable  if  the 
various  Evangelical  Lutheran  Synods  in  the  United  States  were  to 
stand  in  some  way  or  another  in  closer  connection  with  each  other,  and 
that  the  venerable  Ministerium  be  charged  to  consider  this  matter,  to 
prepare  a  plan  for  a  closer  union,  if  the  venerable  Ministerium  deem  it 
advisable,  and  to  see  to  it  that  this  union,  if  it  be  desirable,  be  brought 
about,  if  possible. 


518 


DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 


The  preachers  handed  in  their  lists  of  baptized,  confirmed,  communi- 
cants, burials  and  schools,  as  follows : 


Preachers. 

Dr.  Helmuth 

Bap- 
tized. 

j    256 

Con- 
firmed. 

52 

Communi- 
cants. 

800 

Burials. 

88 

Schools 

5 

.     96 

41 

279 

43 

1 

.    104 

65 

618 

35 

12 

"       Sch mucker   .    . 

.    164 

74 

465 

53 

4 

"        Geisenhainer,  Sr. 

9 

16 

42 

3 

— 

"       Lochmann    .    .    . 

.    152 

46 

512 

36 

3 

.    139 

83 

439 

26 

1 

.     91 

49 

307 

16 

2 

"       Dill 

Flohr    .... 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

.     73 

50 

158 

24 

2 

"        Muhlenberg .    .    . 
"        Geisenhainer,  Jr. 

.    162 

.     75 

75 

680 
196 

26 
15 

4 
1 

.   104 

34 

256 

24 

3 

"       Moller 

.    121 

73 

350 

25 

1 

Roller 

.    147 

111 

514 

31 

— 

.    205 

175 

1197 

52 

8 

Walter  .... 

.    158 

59 

1101 

16 

12 

.     24 

12 

45 

2 

— 

.     79 

25 

228 

20 

4 

.     64 

58 

126 

19 

— 

D.  F.  Schaffer  . 

.    189 

51 

501 

33 

1 

"        Melsheimer  .    . 

.     33 

29 

200 

7 

2 

Hecht    .... 

.    .    120 

49 

197 

48 

1 

"       Muller  .... 

.   145 

123 

1050 

35 

5 

"        Ullrich  .... 

.    153 

85 

1035 

46 

6 

"        Vanhoff    .    .    . 

.     87 

— 

280 

18 

3 

.    120 

48 

488 

39 

4 

SEVENTY-FIRST  CONVENTION,   1818.  519 

Bnp-  Con-  Comniuni- 

Preachers.  tized.  firraed.  cants.  Burials.  Schools. 

Deacon  Rehmann    ....  —  —  —  —  — 

Kessler 42  31  103  12  2 

"         Riemenschneider.   .  —  —  —  —  — 

Weigandt    ....  —  —  —  —  — 

Balis 122  47  262  25  6 

Engel 106  43  419  25  6 

Mecndsen    ....  143  65  590  36  5 

Becker 49  23  220  45  2 

Sackman 43  —  20  10  1 

Heim —  —  —  —  _ 

Munnig 184  —  560  40  7 

"         Tiedcmann  ....  —  —  —  —  — 

Hemping     ....  228  66  7-15  29  6 

Schindel 117  74  746  17  3 

Herbst,  Jr 108  —  322  13  5 

Steck —  —  —  —  — 

Filbert 108  53  433  20  3 

Probst 213  165  583  24  4 

"         Doering —  —  —  —  — 

Pastor  Rebenach 33  —  22  3  1 

"       C.  F.  [F.  C  ]  Schaffer.    —  —  —  —  — 

Candidate  Scriba 45  25  83  7  — 

"         Simon —  —  —  —  — 

Osterloh  ....  112  28  206  9  — 

Merkel    ....  —  —  —  —  — 

Rndisil    ....  —  —  —  —  — 

"         Weygand    ...  —  —  —  —  — 

"         Nic.  Schmucker  .  —  —  —  —  — 

Bernhardt   ...  —  —  —  —  — 

"         Meyer —  —  —  —  — 

Huet —  —  —  —  — 

"         Leist —  —  —  —  — 

"         Maw —  —  —  —  — 

Wartmann  ...  102  118  882  45  8 

"        Morris —  —  —  —  — 

Ruppert  ....  89  34  128  16  8 

Strein 105  52  270  13  2 

I  Kim.  Jr.    .    .    .  161  35  400  28  8 

Dan.  Kurtz    .   .  165  56  360  50  3 

K.ller 190  174  742  10  2 

Meyerhcffer     .    .  151  —  158  10  2 


520 


DOCUMENTARY   HISTORY. 


Candidate. 

Candidate  Steck   . 

"         Braun1 

Cruse   . 

"         Cramer 

"         Schneider 

Kepas  , 

"         Heyer  , 

"         Steelier 

Kebler 

"         Trumbaur 

Hall     . 

"         Mohler 

Kessler 

Catechist  Walter  . 

"         Jager    . 

"  Schmick 

"         Miiller  . 

"  Geisenhainer 

"  German    .    . 


Bap-  Con-     Communi- 

tized.       firmed.      cants.      Burials.   Schools. 


68 


85 


42 


82 


5      — 


133 

34 

220 

16 

53 

— 

75 

4 

55 

33 

375 

17 

33 

68 

184 

4 

13 

— 

— 

3 

92 

98 

475 

14 

59 


174 


85        —  — 

25        —        114 


Note. — Those  preachers,  after  whose  names  there  is  a  blank  in  the  above  list, 
have  neglected  to  send  in  their  reports. 

Baltimore  was  chosen  as  the  place,  and  Trinity  Sunday,  1819,  as  the 
time  for  next  year's  Convention. 

Hereupon  the  whole  Synod  bowed  in  the  presence  of  its  Lord,  and 
gave  thanks  for  the  grace  bestowed,  and  prayed  devoutly  for  blessing 
upon  the  completed  transactions ;  and  after  an  appropriate  hymn  had 
been  sung  in  conclusion,  the  meeting  was  dismissed  by  the  President 
with  devout  benedictions. 


MINISTERIAL  MEETING. 


Wednesday,  May  20,  1818,  3  p.m. 

The  business  of  the  Ministerial  Meeting  was  opened,  as  usual,  with 
singing  and  prayer. 

Mr.  Ludwig  Walz  and  Mr.  Griibcr  appeared  as  applicants  for  recep- 

1Gone  to  Germany. 


SEVENTY-FIRST  CONVENTION,    1818.  521 

tic  m  into  the  Ministeriurn :  at  the  same  time  there  also  appeared  Messrs. 
"Wil'i.  German  and  Fried.  W.  Geisenhainer,  who  under  licence  as  can- 
didates ad  interim,  and  Messrs.  Conrad  Midler  and  H.  Schulz,  who  as 
catechista  ad  interim,  had  served  during  several  months. 

Committees  were  appointed  to  examine  the  above  applicants. 

The  sermons  and  diaries  of  the  candidates  and  catechists  were 
divided  among  the  ordained  preachers  for  examination. 

A  certain  Mr.  Vorhoff  applied  for  reception  into  the  Synod.  The 
Ministerium  postponed  action  on  the  same. 

It  was  resolved  to  renew  the  licenses  of  Messrs.  Morris  and  Due. 

Resolved,  That  hereafter  the  candidates  and  catechists  immediately 
upon  their  arrival  at  the  place  where  the  Synod  is  to  meet,  shall  hand 
over  to  the  Pastor  loci  their  sermons  and  diaries  in  a  neatly  tied  packet 
and  with  their  names  plainly  written  on  the  same,  so  that  the  President 
of  the  Ministerium  likewise  may  be  able  to  hand  them  at  once  to  the 
attending  ordained  preachers  for  examination. 

The  committee,  which  had  been  appointed  at  the  meeting  of  the  pre- 
vious year,  with  reference  to  the  Church  Agenda,  reported  that,  for 
various  reasons,  but  five  of  its  members  had  been  able  to  attend  the 
meeting  in  Baltimore  ;  that  these  five  had  not  been  willing  to  under- 
take the  complete  execution  of  the  matters,  and  that  they  had  con- 
cluded to  lay  the  work  they  had  done  before  the  whole  Ministerium. 

The  reading  of  the  work  done  by  the  said  committee  was  begun  and 
t!ie  Ministerium  approved  the  work,  part  by  part,  as  much  as  the  time 
would  allow. 

At  6  p.m.  the  Ministerium  closed  with  prayer. 

This  evening  Pastor  Hofmeier,  Evangelical  Reformed  preacher  from 
Lancaster,  preached. 

Thursday,  8  a.m. 

The  session  was  opened  with  singing  and  prayer. 

A  certain  Mr.  Zursiler  desired  counsel  and  help  from  the  Minister- 
ium, saying  that  he  wished  to  study  theology. 

After  a  short  hearing,  and  some  deliberation  following  it,  the  Minis- 
terium agreed  to  have  nothing  whatever  to  do  with  the  gentleman,  nor 
the  above-mentioned  Mr.  Vorhoff. 

The  Church  Agenda  was  taken  up  again,  but  not  finished. 

In  accordance  with  the  reports  of  the  examiners,  it  was  resolved  : 

1.  That  Mr.  Friedrich  Wilhelm  Geisenhainer  be  given  a  license  for 
Pikeland  and  Vincent  as  a  candidate 

2.  That  Mr.  Conrad  Muller  be  given  a  candidate's  license  for  the 
-tore  congregation. 


522  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

3.  That  Mr.  Graber  be  given  a  candidate's  license  for  Morlack  and 
Benjamin's  churches. 

4.  That  a  license  be  filled  out  and  handed  to  Mr.  Waltz  as  soon  as 
he  finds  a  congregation,  which  he  may  accept  with  the  consent  of  the 
President. 

5.  That  Mr.  Schulze  be  given  a  candidate's  license  for  the  congrega- 
tions in  Nittany  Valley  and  Tucker  Valley. 

6.  That  Mr.  German  be  given  a  candidate's  license,  with  the  advice 
that  he  avail  himself  of  the  counsel  and  guidance  of  Pastor  Muhlen- 
berg, and  give  himself  diligently  to  study. 

7.  That  because  of  the  special  wants  of  the  congregation  which  he  is 
serving,  Mr.  Schmick  be  given  a  candidate's  license,  but  that  at  the 
delivery  of  the  same,  the  President  shall  explain  to  him  what  was  the 
sole  reason  for  granting  it,  and  that  if  after  a  year,  he  does  not  pass  a 
better  examination,  he  will  not  be  likely  to  receive  his  license  again, 
and  that  the  Ministeriurn  also  advises  him  to  be  more  circumspect  in 
his  intercourse  with  people. 

The  reports  concerning  the  sermons  and  diaries  of  the  candidates  and 
catechists  were  handed  in. 

Resolved,  That  this  evening  at  the  public  meeting,  Messrs.  Scriba, 
Wartman,  Ruppert  and  Strein  be  ordained  deacons. 

An  earnest  prayer  closed  this  session. 

3.30  p.m. 

After  the  customary  prayer,  it  was  resolved  that  Catechist  Jager,  in 
accordance  with  the  advice  from  our  venerable  Senior,  be  given  a  can' 
didate's  license. 

The  matter  of  the  Church  Agenda  was  now  fully  concluded. 

Resolved,  That  Pastor  Kurz,  Lochman  and  Schmucker  publish  the 
Agenda,  thus  completed. 

Resolved,  That  a  copyright  for  the  Agenda  be  taken  out,  in  the  name 
of  the  committee,  in  behalf  of  the  Synod. 

Resolved,  That  the  edition  shall  not  exceed  3000  copies. 

Resolved,  That  the  officers  of  the  Synod  shall  contribute  a  corres- 
ponding committee,  to  bring  about,  wherever  practicable,  a  union  with 
the  other  Evangelical  Lutheran  Synods  in  the  United  States. 

This  evening  at  the  public  meeting,  Messrs.  Scriba,  Wartman,  Rup- 
pert  and  Strein  were  solemnly  ordained  deacons  by  the  laying  on  of 
hands,  and  the  lately  appointed  candidates  were  handed  their  licenses, 
with  appropriate  formalities,  admonitions  and  prayers. 

Thanks  be  to  our  good  and  faithful  Shepherd  for  His  grace !  Un- 
usual unanimity  and  the  most  hearty  concord  and  fraternal  affection 


SEVENTY-FIRST  CONVENTION,   1818.  523 

reigned  throughout  all  the  deliberations  of  the  Synod  and  the  Minis- 
terium.  These  are  the  fruits  of  His  Spirit  May  they  always  be  in  our 
midst  and  continually  be  produced  and  increased  in  all  our  congrega- 
tions to  the  honor  of  His  holy  name.     Amen.     Amen. 

Attest :  Christ.  Endress, 

Secretary. 


SEVENTY-SECOND  CONVENTION. 

1819. 


SYNODICAL  MEETING 

Held  in  Baltimore  during  Trinity  Week  of  the  Year  1819. 

On  Trinity  Sunday,  June  6,  1819,  the  attending  preachers  and  dele- 
gates met  in  the  parsonage,  and  went  in  procession  to  the  church.  Pastor 
Geo.  Lochman,  President  of  the  Ministerium,  preached  on  Mark  16  : 
15, 16.  In  the  afternoon  Pastor  Endress,  Secretary  of  the  Ministerium> 
preached  on  I  Tim.  1 :  15.  In  the  evening  Doctor  Schaffer  preached 
on  II  Cor.  4  :  5. 

In  the  Reformed  Church,  three  sermons  were  also  delivered  on  the 
same  day.  In  the  morning  Candidate  Keller  preached  on  Prov.  14 :  34. 
In  the  afternoon  F.  D.  Schaffer  preached  on  II  Cor.  4:1.  In  the  eve- 
ning Candidate  Cruse  preached  on  Micah  4 :  1,2. 

In  the  Otterbein  Church,  Deacon  Sackman  preached  on  Luke  1 1 : 
21-26,  in  the  morning.  Deacon  Rehman  preached  on  Acts  26 :  18,  in 
the  afternoon. 

N.  B. — On  the  previous  evening,  Pastor  Schober,  Secretary  of  the 
Ministerium  of  North  Carolina,  had  preached  in  the  Lutheran  Church 
on  John  3  :  5. 

Monday,  June  7th,  9  a.m. 

The  preachers  and  delegates  assembled  in  the  church,  and  the  session 
was  opened  with  singing  and  prayer,  conducted  by  the  President. 

The  Following  Pastors  were  Present: 

1.  Dr.  Schaffer, Philadelphia. 

2.  "  Kurz Baltimore. 

3.  Pastor  Schober  ....  North  Carolina. 

4.  "  Jager Allentown. 

5.  "  Schmucker    .    .  Yorktown. 

6.  "  Lochman    .    .    .  Harrisburg. 

7.  "  Endress   "...  Lancaster. 
524 


SEVENTY-SECOND  CONVENTION,    1819. 


525 


8.  Pastor  Rothrauff  . 


Grcencastle. 


9. 

"       Grobb     . 

.    .    .  Taueytown. 

10. 

"       Mi'ihlenbei 

•g  .    .  Reading. 

11. 

"       Moller     . 

.    .    .  Charabersburg. 

12. 

"       Roller     . 

.    .    .  Gosbenboppeii. 

13. 

"      Herbst,  Sr 

.    .  Mancliester. 

14. 

"       Haas    .  . 

15. 

"      F.  D.  Scln 

ifTer  .  Friedricbstown. 

16. 

"       Melzheime 

r    .    .  Hanover. 

17. 

"      Hecht     . 

.    .    .  Easton. 

18. 

"       Miillcr    . 

19. 

"       Ulrich     . 

.    .    .  Tulpebocken. 

20. 

"       Ernst  .    . 

21. 

"       Rebenack 

.    .    .  Huntingdon. 

Deacons. 

22. 

Mi 

23. 

« 

Meendsen   . 

.    .    .  Lecba  Township. 

24. 

« 

Rehmann    . 

.    .    .  Abbotstown. 

25. 

tt 

25. 

« 

Sackman     . 

.    .    .  Loudon. 

26. 

tt 

Tiedeman    . 

.    .    .  Somerset. 

27. 

it 

Herbst,  Jr. 

.    .    .  Gettysburg. 

28. 

a 

Jlemping    . 

.    .    .  Lyken's  Valley. 

29. 

tt 

30. 

tt 

Filbert    .    . 

31. 

tt 

Probst     .    . 

32. 

n 

33. 

tt 

Candidates. 

34. 

Mr 

.  Osterlob 

.    .    .  Median icsburg. 

35. 

•< 

Weygand    . 

.    .  Wippan  and  Northern. 

36. 

tt 

.    ,  Mifflin. 

37. 

it 

38. 

n 

Keller     .    . 

.    .  Carlisle. 

39. 

(i 

Mryerbcffer 

.    .  Madison  County,  Virginia. 

40. 

tt 

41. 

ti 

Cramer   .    . 

.    .  Franklin. 

42. 

it 

Kessler    .    . 

■    .    .  Bloomsburg. 

43. 

it 

Trumbaur  . 

.    .    .  Leacock,  Lancaster  County 

44. 

it 

Hal      .    .    . 

526 


DOCUMENTARY  HISTOEY. 


45.  Mr.  Kehler Martinsburg. 

46.  "     Steelier Macunshy. 

47.  "     Miiller Newstore. 

48.  "     Geisenhainer    .  .    .  Pikeland. 

49.  "     Germann    ....  Womelsdorf. 

50.  "     Walz Philadelphia. 

51.  "     Schulz Johnstown,  Cumberland  County. 

52.  "     Griiber Westminster. 

53.  "     ('corrected  into  "54") 

Schmuck    .    .    .  Sinking  Valley. 

Delegates  with  Credentials. 

1.  Mr.  Joh.  Schorr    .    .    .  Baltimore. 

2.  "  Joh.  Demuth      .  .  York. 

3.  "  Peter  Keller  .    .  .  Harrisburg. 

4.  "  Wilhelm  Henzel  .  Lancaster. 

5.  "  Hein.  Schmidt  .  .  Greencastle. 

6.  "  Fried.  Gelwicks  .  .  Taneytown. 

7.  "  George  Matter  .  .  Manchester. 

8.  "  Jacob  Bahrdt     .  .  Woodsbury. 

9.  "  George  Gelwicks  .  Friderichtown. 

10.  "  Daniel  Barnitz  .    .  Hanover. 

11.  "  Chr.  Jac.  Hiitter  .  Easton. 

12.  "  Leonhard  Stupp    .  Tulpehocken. 

13.  "  Georg  Engelhard  .  Mifflin. 

14.  "  Barnhard  Gilbert .  Gettysburg. 

15.  "  Joh.  Haal  ....  Elizabethtown. 

16.  "  Franz  Brotzmann  .  Hagerstown. 

17.  "  Andrew  Emminger,  Carlisle. 

18.  "  Ephraim  Frey  .    .  Madison  County,  Virginia. 

19.  "  Jacob  Schmeir   .    .  Macunshy. 

20.  "  Georg  Weiss   .    .    .  Martinsburg. 

21.  "  Samuel  Weidler  .  .  Leacock,  Lancaster  County. 

22.  "  Christof.  Kehler    .  Bloomsburg. 

23.  "  Andrew  Pues   .  .    .  Westminster. 

Accordingly,  the  whole  body  of  the  voting  members  of  the  Synod 
was  composed  of  seventy-seven  persons.  After  they  had  all  taken  their 
regular  seats  the  election  of  officers  was  taken  up. 

1  The  Secretary  made  a  mistake  in  his  count  of  members  of  Synod.  He  has 
among  the  ministers,  two  with  "  No.  25."  Hence  the  Synod  was  composed  of 
"  76  "  and  not  "  77  "  votes,  as  indicated  in  the  printed  minutes. 


SEVENTY-SECOND  CONVENTION,    1819.  527 

N.  B. — Mr.  Gottlieb  Schober,  of  North  Carolina,  and  Secretary  of 
the  Ministenum  of  that  State,  presented  his  credentials  as  a  delegate  of 
their  Synod,  and  received  a  Beat  and  vote  among  us. 

Pastor  Schmucker  was  chosen  President. 
"      Jager  was  chosen  Secretary. 
"      Muhlenberg  was  chosen  Treasurer. 

The  communications  were  handed  to  the  President,  numbered,  and 
divided  among  six  committees,  to  examine  the  contents  of  the  same  and 
to  make  reports  concerning  them. 

The  first  committee  was  composed  of  Messrs.  Dr.  Schiiffer,  Grobb, 
Strein  and  B.  Kurz  as  preachers,  and  Messrs.  Schorr  and  Keller  as 
delegates. 

The  second  committee  was  composed  of  Messrs.  Lochman,  Rothrauf 
and  Keller,  as  preachers,  and  Messrs.  Demuth  and  Hengel,  as  delegates. 

The  third  committee  was  composed  of  Messrs.  Endress,  Roller,  Hecht 
and  McierhefFer,  as  preachers,  and  Messrs.  Schmidt  and  Gelwicks,  as 
delegates. 

.The  fourth  committee  was  composed  of  Messrs.  Muhlenberg,  Mels- 
heimer,  Steeher  and  Cruse,  as  preachers,  and  Messrs.  Gelwicks  and 
Barnitz,  as  delegates. 

The  fifth  committee  was  composed  of  Messrs.  F.  D.  Schiifer,  Moller, 
Hemping  and  Probst,  as  preachers,  and  Messrs.  Christian  Jacob  Hiitter 
and  Bernhard  Gilbert,  as  delegates. 

The  sixth  committee  was  composed  of  Messrs.  Ernst,  Miiller,  Reck 
and  Herbst,  as  preachers,  and  Messrs.  Emminger  and  Schmeier,  as 
delegates. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

Monday,  3  p.m. 

The  session  was  opened  with  prayer. 

The  first  committee  made  the  following  report  on  the  communications 
submitted  to  it : 

1.  A  letter  from  Mr.  Braunsius,  who  was  formerly  a  member  of 
our  Synod,  but  is  now  in  Germany,  requesting  the  President  and  Sec- 
retary  of  this  Synod  to  send  him,  in  writing,  a  favorable  testimonial  of 
his  ministrations  in  this  country. 

Resolved,  That  his  request  be  not  granted. 

Also  a  letter  from  Dr.  Schwarz,  Professor  in  the  University  of  Hei- 
delberg, in  which  he  makes  known  his  enjoyment  of  our  "Magazin," 
which  Mr.  Braunsius  had  handed  to  him,  and  also  expresses  the  desire 
to  have  a  more  intimate  acquaintance  with  our  Synod.     As  a  mark  of 


528  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

his  love  and  esteem  for  the  Synod,  he  has  sent  to  it  the  following 
writings:  Compendium  of  Dogmatics,  a  Compendium  of  Pedagogics, 
a  Treatise  on  the  Church,  etc.,  in  three  parts,  a  Sermon,  Stil ling's 
Age,  written  by  himself ;  also  two  engravings,  one  for  Dr.  Helmuth, 
and  one  for  the  Synod. 

Resolved,  That  our  "Magazin,"  from  the  beginning,  together  with 
the  proceedings  of  this  year's  Synod,  neatly  bound,  be  sent  at  the  ex- 
pense of  the  Synod  to  Dr.  Schwarz,  of  Heidelberg,  as  a  mark  of  our 
gratefulness  for  the  present  which  he  has  made  to  the  Synod. 

Resolved,  That  in  the  name  of  the  Synod  our  Reverend  Senior,  Dr. 
Helmuth,  answer  the  letter  of  Dr.  Schwarz. 

No.  2.  A  letter  from  the  congregation  in  Berlin,  Somerset  County, 
in  which  the  congregation  gives  Mr.  Kriigler  a  favorable  testimonial, 
and  makes  request  for  his  reception  into  the  Synod.  Referred  to  the 
Ministerium. 

No.  3.  A  letter  from  Mr.  Miinnig,  in  which  he  excuses  his  absence, 
sends  $6.60  for  the  Synodical  Treasury,  and  encloses  the  lists  of  his 
baptized,  etc. 

Also  two  letters,  one  from  Mr.  Gottl.  Schober,  of  North  Carolina,  and 
one  from  Mr.  Quitmann,  of  New  York,  in  which  they  express  the  desire 
for  a  closer  union  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Synods  in  the  United 
States. 

Resolved,  That  Dr.  Schiifer,  Dr.  Kurz  and  Pastors  Lochman  and 
Endress,  from  among  the  preachers,  and  Messrs.  Demuth,  Keller  and 
Schorr,  from  among  the  delegates,  shall  constitute  a  committee  to  con- 
sider, together  with  Mr.  Gottl.  Schober,  the  matter  of  such  a  union  of 
the  Synods,  and  as  soon  as  possible  to  draft  a  plan  for  this  purpose. 

No.  4.  Letters  of  excuse  from  Messrs.  Knoske,  Flohr  and  Stauch. 
The  excuses  were  accepted,  and  as  Mr.  Stauch  also  asks  for  a  copy  of 
the  Agenda  and  several  copies  of  the  Ministerial  Order,  it  was  resolved, 
that  one  copy  of  the  Agenda,  and  twelve  of  the  Ministerial  Order,  be 
sent  to  Mr.  Stauch  as  a  present. 

No.  5.  A  letter  from  Macungy,  signed  by  three  men,  stating  that  a 
part  of  the  congregation  is  unwilling  to  acknowledge  Mr.  Stecher  as 
their  preacher,  and  that  they  believe  that  only  a  non-partisan  preacher 
can  restore  peace  and  quiet  in  their  congregation. 

The  matter  was  postponed. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

This  evening  Pastor  Muhlenberg  preached  on  I  Cor.  7 :  31. 


SEVENTY-SECOND  CONVENTION,   1819.  529 

Tuesday,  9  a.m. 

The  session  was  opened  with  singing  and  prayer. 

A  committee  was  appointed  to  audit  the  accounts  of  the  Treasurer. 

/,'  '•[red.  That  Pastor  Ernst  and  Delegates  Christian  Jac.  Hiitter 
and  Mr.  Ilempel  shall  constitute  the  committee. 

The  Macungy  matter  was  now  again  taken  up,  and  after  several 
earnest  remarks,  it  was  resolved,  that  since  Mr.  Steelier,  in  accordance 
with  the  resolution  of  the  Synod  of  the  previous  year,  had  been  lawfully 
elected  again  as  preacher  of  the  Macungy  congregation,  the  Synod  can 
now  have  nothing  more  to  do  in  the  matter  of  the  6aid  congregation, 
and  that  in  case  the  minority  of  the  congregation  (by  an  appeal  to  the 
law)  desire  to  prevent  Mr.  Stecher  from  preaching  in  the  church,  none 
of  our  other  members  can  be  given  permission  to  perform  ministerial 
acts  in  the  congregation,  so  long  as  this  thing  lasts. 

The  second  committee  reported  on  the  communications  submitted 
to  it : 

No.  1.  A  letter  from  Pastor  F.  Christian  Schiifer,  from  New  York, 
in  which  he  excuses  his  absence,  and  gives  the  assurance  that  it  would 
be  very  acceptable  to  the  Synod  in  York  State  if  our  Synod  would  send 
a  delegate  to  the  York  Synod  next  fall. 

1 1  .«>lved,  That  Secretary  Jiiger  shall  be  our  delegate  to  the  York 
Synod  this  year. 

No.  2.  A  letter  from  our  Reverend  Senior,  Dr.  Helmuth,  with  various 
contents.     It  was  referred  to  the  Ministerium. 

No.  3.  A  letter  from  Mr.  Plitt,  in  which  he  excuses  his  absence,  and 
recommends  a  young  man  by  the  name  of  Kurz  as  applicant,  Referred 
to  the  Ministerium. 

No.  4.  A  letter  from  Pastor  Walter,  in  which  he  excuses  his  absence, 
presents  the  lists  of  his  baptized,  etc.,  and  also  states  that  he  has  taken 
up  and  transmitted  a  collection  of  $18  for  the  Synodical  Treasury.  He 
desiri  a  for  the  Synod  God's  blessing  upon  its  transactions. 

No.  5.  A  letter  from  Mr.  Rupert,  in  which  he  states  that  he  has  left 
ngregations,  and  has  moved  to  Meadville.     The  Synod  is  quite 
satisfied  with  this. 

No.  6.  A  letter  from  Pastor  Carpenter,  in  which  he  excuses  his  ab- 
sence, and  recommends  a  young  man  by  the  name  of  H.  A.  Kurz  for 
further  advancement. 

It  was  referred  to  the  Ministerium. 

No    7.   Letters  from  the  congregations  in  Stumpstown,  Jonestown 
and  VV aimers,  in  which  they  express  the  desire  to  have  Mr.  Joh.  Stein 
as  their  preacher. 
34 


530  DOCUMENTARY  HISTOEY. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Joli.  Stein  be  permitted  to  accept  them,  provided 
he  pass  the  examination. 

No.  8.  A  letter  from  Cumberland  County,  Allegheny,  Maryland,  in 
which  the  congregation  announces  its  satisfaction  with  Mr.  Heyer,  at 
which  the  Synod  sincerely  rejoices. 

No.  9.  A  letter  from  Mr.  Heyer  himself,  in  which  he  excuses  his  ab- 
sence, and  states  that  widows  Colson  and  Buttler  thank  the  Synod  for 
its  aid  and  ask  for  continued  assistance.  Since  he  owes  Mr.  Lochman 
$2.50  and  Mr.  B.  Kurz  $1.00,  he  requests  that  they  may  be  paid  out  of 
this  year's  appropriation  to  Widow  Buttler,  and  promises  to  pay  the 
said  sum  to  Widow  Buttler  again.  He  also  has  collected  $5  for  the 
Synodical  Treasury.  These,  with  the  above  amounts,  make  $8.50.  He 
also  asks  for  the  renewal  of  his  license,  and  transmits  his  lists  of  bap- 
tized, etc. 

Resolved,  That  his  request  be  granted. 

No.  10.  A  letter  from  Mr.  Schulz,  in  which  he  states  that  he  has  ac- 
cepted the  congregation  in  Jonestown,  Cambria  County.  The  Synod  is 
satisfied  with  this. 

No.  11.  A  request  from  Jefferson  County,  in  the  State  of  Kentucky, 
in  which  an  appeal  is  made  for  aid  in  the  building  of  a  new  church. 

Resolved,  That  their  request  cannot  be  granted,  because  of  the  pres- 
ent depleted  condition  of  our  treasury. 

No  12.  A  letter  from  H.  A.  Kurz.  He  reports  his  ministrations, 
asks  for  a  candidate's  license,  and  states  that  he  has  collected  $10.75  on 
his  journey  for  the  Synodical  Treasury,  but  which  do  not  cover  his 
traveling  expenses,  which  amount  to  $80.  He  puts  several  questions 
to  the  Synod  for  reply,  concerning  the  division  of  the  Ten  Command- 
ments and  concerning  certain  expressions  used  by  some  in  the  distribu- 
tion of  the  Holy  Communion. 

Resolved,  That  the  Synod  could  not  at  present  attend  to  the  answer- 
ing of  the  questions. 

No.  13.  A  letter  from  the  congregation  in  Jefferson  County,  State  of 
Kentucky,  in  which  it  thanks  the  Synod  that  it  has  sent  Mr.  H.  A. 
Kurz  to  it,  and  desires  that  a  candidate's  license  be  given  him,  Re- 
ferred to  the  Ministerium. 

No.  14.  A  letter  from  the  congregation  in  Nelson  County,  in  the 
State  of  Kentucky,  in  which  the  congregation  voices  its  satisfaction 
with  Mr.  H.  A.  Kurz,  excuses  his  absence  and  asks  for  renewal  of  his 
license. 

Referred  to  the  Ministerium. 

The  Protocol  of  the  previous  year's  Synod  was  then  read,  and  the 
session  closed  with  prayer. 


SEVENTY-SECOND  CONVENTION,   1819.  531 

Tuesday,  3  p.m. 

The  session  was  opened  with  prayer. 

The  third  committee  made  its  report  concerning  the  communications 
submitted  to  it. 

No.  1.  A  very  beautiful  letter  from  Mr.  C  A.Morris,  in  which  he 
announces  that  for  important  reasons  he  has  laid  down  his  office. 

Resolved,  That  his  letter  be  read  to  the  Synod,  and  that  the  Presi- 
dent, in  the  name  of  the  Synod,  answer  the  same. 

No.  2.  A  letter  from  Pastor  Geisenhainer,  in  which  he  excuses  his 
absence,  and  reports  that  he,  with  his  son,  is  now  serving  the  congrega- 
tions of  Vincent  and  Pikeland.  He  asks  for  one  or  two  copies  of  the 
Agenda. 

Resolved,  That  they  be  sent  to  him. 

No.  3.  Letters  from  the  Church  Council  of  St.  John's  Church  in 
Lyken's  Valley,  in  which  they  request  that  the  Synod  take  the  neces- 
sary steps  to  divide  the  congregations,  which  hitherto  were  united  with 
this  congregation,  into  two  charges. 

Resolved,  To  postpone  the  matter  until  the  report  of  the  fourth  com- 
mittee. 

No.  4.  A  communication  from  the  Blue  Mountain  congregation,  in 
which  they  make  excuse  for  not  sending  a  delegate,  and  heartily  com- 
mend their  preacher,  Mr.  German.  The  Synod  has  no  action  to  take 
in  the  matter,  but  is  well  satisfied. 

No.  5.  A  request  from  the  congregation  in  Greenfield  that  the  Min- 
isterium  should  allow  Mr.  Schmick  to  administer  the  Holy  Communion 
to  them. 

N.  B. — At  this  point  a  verbal  report  was  made  by  Mr.  Ri  benack 
concerning  Huntingdon,  and  by  the  President  concerning  Williams- 
burg and  the  congregations  in  the  neighborhood.  Mr.  Schmick  de- 
clared that  he  was  unwilling  to  accept  the  congregations. 

The  fourth  committee  reported  on  the  communications  submitted  to  it. 

No.  1.  A  letter  from  Mr.  Jager,  of  Philadelphia,  in  which  he  gives 
sickness  in  the  family  as  his  chief  reason  for  absence,  and  asks  for  the 
renewal  of  his  license.     The  excuse  was  accepted. 

No.  2.  A  letter  from  the  congregation  in  Hummelstown,  in  which 
they  request  that  several  preachers  appointed  by  the  Synod  might 
preach  to  them,  and  in  connection  with  the  Bindnagel  and  Maxe  con- 
gregations, desire  a  new  election  for  a  preacher,  so  that  the  division  of 
the  congregations  might  be  prevent*  d. 

Resolved,  To  postpone  the  matter  until  the  report  of  the  sixth  com- 
mittee. 


532  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

No.  3.  A  letter  from  several  congregations  in  Schuylkill  County,  in 
which  they  voice  their  satisfaction  with  Mr.  Gottlieb  Jager,  and  desire 
to  have  him  as  their  pastor. 

Referred  to  the  Ministerium. 

No.  4.  A  letter  from  the  seven  congregations  of  Mr.  Hemping,  in 
which  they  announce  their  satisfaction  with  their  preacher,  and  declare 
that  they  can  enter  into  no  connection  with  St.  John's  church,  since  they 
fear  a  division  of  the  congregations  would  result. 

Resolved,  That  a  communication  be  sent  to  St.  John's  church  in 
Lykens  Valley,  admonishing  it  to  unite  with  the  seven  other  congre- 
gations. 

No.  5.  A  letter  from  Mr.  Joh.  Goeseman,  of  Somerset,  in  which  he 
states  that  he  is  inclined  towards  the  ministry,  and  desires  to  have  a 
place  as  schoolmaster,  and  with  it  an  opportunity  to  continue  his  studies 
with  a  preacher. 

Referred  to  the  Ministerium 

The  fifth  committee  reported  on  the  communications  submitted  to  it. 

No.  1.  A  letter  from  the  congregations  of  Hilltown,  etc.,  in  which 
they  express  their  satisfaction  with  their  preacher,  Mr.  "Wyand.  The 
Synod  was  pleased  with  this. 

No.  2.  A  letter  from  Candidate  Stock,  in  which  he  complains  of  his 
great  poverty,  fears  a  lack  of  food,  and  asks  for  assistance  from  the 
Synodical  Treasur}T. 

Resolved,  That  $5  shall  be  given  to  Mr.  Stock  out  of  the  Synodical 
Treasury,  and  as  he  desires  the  consolation  and  the  good  advice  of  the 
Synod  as  to  how  he  shall  conduct  himself  in  his  hard  circumstances,  it 
was  resolved,  that  in  the  name  of  the  Synod,  Pastor  Lochman  shall  give 
him  the  same. 

No  3.  A  favorable  testimonial  from  three  congregations  for  Mr. 
Schmick,  with  which  the  Synod  was  pleased. 

No.  4.  A  request  from  Candidate  Schulz,  that  the  Synod  would  ad- 
vance him  $60,  as  he  is  in  very  needy  circumstances,  and  promises  to 
pay  back  the  same  into  the  Synodical  Treasury  in  yearly  amounts  of  $20. 

The  matter  was  postponed. 

No.  5.  A  letter  from  Mr  Repas,  in  which  he  excuses  his  absence,  and 
reports  that  he  is  serving  eight  congregations,  and  asks  to  have  a  preacher 
in  the  same  region  who  could  relieve  him  of  some  of  his  congregations 
and  serve  them.  He  also  transmits  his  lists  of  baptized,  etc. ,  makes 
excuse  for  Mr.  Schindel's  absence,  and  also  transmits  his  lists  of  bap- 
tized, etc. 

Resolved,  That  if  any  preacher  wishes  to  go  there,  he  shall  first  make 
it  known  to  the  President. 


SEVENTY  SECOND   CONVENTION,    1819.  533 

The  committee  appointed  to  audit  the  accounts  of  the  Treasurer 
made  the  following  report :  That  they  have  found  the  same  correct,  and 
that  at  present  there  is  a  balance  in  the  Treasury  of  $465.90,  of  which, 
however,  $20  in  bank  notes  are  bad  money,  and  also  $11.50  of  unpas- 
lable  notes.  The  $20  of  bad  money  should  no  longer  be  kept  in  the 
Treasury,  and  then  the  correct  balance  would  be  $445.90. 

Resolved,  That  the  Secretary  destroy  at  once  the  bad  notes,  which 
was  done. 

The  sixth  committee  reported  on  the  communications  submitted  to  it. 

No.  1.  A  letter  from  Pastor  Molther,  in  wThich  he  states  his  pleasure 
at  being  present  at  the  Synod,  and  asks  for  reception  into  the  Synod, 
and  a  congregation  among  us. 

Inferred  to  the  Ministerium. 

No.  2.  Several  letters  from  four  congregations  in  Cumberland  County, 
in  the  neighborhood  of  Newville,  in  which  they  ask  for  a  preacher,  and 
promise  him  adequate  support. 

Resolved,  To  provide  for  them. 

No.  3.  Several  letters  from  various  congregations  in  Brothers  Valley, 
Somerset  County,  in  which  they  express  the  desire  to  have  Mr.  Kriigler 
as  preacher. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Kriigler  be  permitted  to  accept  them,  provided  he 
pass  his  examination. 

No.  !•  A  letter  from  seven  congregations  in  York  County,  signed  by 
Mr.  Ilerbst,  Jr.,  in  which  they  ask  for  a  preacher,  and  promise  him 
ample  support. 

Resolved,  That  the  congregations,  Krcutz  Creek,  Schocholy,  Stehlis 
and  Frey's  be  advised  to  accept  Pastor  Graber  as  their  preacher,  and 
that  some  other  preacher  of  our  connection  be  permitted  to  accept  the 
remaining  congregations. 

No.  5.  A  request  from  Middletown,  and  the  congregations  belonging 
thereto,  resigned  by  Mr.  Graber,  asking  for  Mr.  Kehler,  or  in  case  they 
cannot  have  him,  for  some  other  preacher. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Kehler  be  permitted  to  accept  the  said  congrega- 
tions. 

No.  6.  A  letter  from  Milford  Township,  in  which  the  congregation 
to  have  Mr.  Kriigler  as  preacher.     This  has  reference  to  No.  3. 

No.  7.  A  letter  from  Mr.  Carl  Demme,in  which  he  states  that  he  has 
studied  theology  at  the  Universities  of  Halle  and  Gottingcn,  mentions 
his  present  condition,  and  asks  for  reception  into  our  body. 

Resolved,  That  a  committee  be  appointed  consisting  of  Messrs.  Roth- 
rauf,  Grob,  Muller  and  Ernst  as  preachers,  and  Messrs.  Brotzmann, 
Gelwicks  and  Bahrdt  as  delegates. 


534 


DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 


No.  8.  A  letter  from  the  Bindnagel's  congregation  in  Londonderry 
Township,  Lebanon  County,  in  which  the  congregation  makes  request 
for  the  services  of  Mr.  German. 

No.  9.  A  letter  from  Pastor  Henkel.  On  motion  of  the  committee, 
it  was  read.  Since  he  makes  a  complaint  in  it  against  Mr.  Meierheffer 
without  specifying  the  same,  it  was  resolved  that  the  President  inform 
Mr.  Henkel  that  Synod  could  not  consider  his  complaint  against  Mr. 
Meierheffer,  because  he  did  not  specify  the  same. 

No.  10.  A  letter  from  Abbotstown,  in  which  the  congregation  com- 
plains of  being  without  a  preacher,  and  earnestly  asks  for  the  services 
of  Pastor  Melsheimer. 

The  Synod  will  be  fully  satisfied  if  Pastor  Melsheimer  will  accept  the 


congregation. 


The  Treasurer  now  gathered  up  the  money 
ury,  and  the  preachers  gave  in  the  report  of 
sum  of  $618.19  was  received  for  the  treasury. 


for  the  Synodical  Treas- 
their  baptized,  etc.     The 


Congre- 

Bap- 

Con- 

Communi- 

De- 

Preachers.          gations. 

tized. 

firmed. 

cants. 

ceased. 

Schools. 

Dr.  Kurz    .... 

1 

98 

— 

220 

72 

1 

"    Schafer    .    .    . 

1 

247 

49 

846 

97 

5 

Pastor  Jager  .    .    . 

4 

168 

102 

670 

57 

12 

a 

Schmucker  . 

3 

172 

173 

546 

60 

6 

a 

Lochman    . 

5 

149 

73 

484 

26 

3 

it 

Endress  .    . 

1 

140 

53 

367 

48 

1 

a 

Stauch    .    . 

- 

122 

20 

259 

15 

6 

<( 

Rothrauf    . 

4 

125 

51 

308 

24 

4 

It 

Herbst,  Sr.  . 

4 

118 

— 

— 

— 

— 

tt 

Grob  .    .    . 

o 
o 

98 

45 

700 

4 

— 

it 

Muhlenberg 

4 

165 

102 

625 

28 

4 

d 

Moller    .    . 

4 

152 

39 

367 

34 

1 

it 

Poller     .    . 

5 

149 

59 

532 

33 

3 

it 

Walter   .    . 

8 

230 

60 

628 

38 

12 

it 

Rebenack  . 

4 

52 

14 

144 

6 

— 

it 

Haas  .    .    . 

4 

82 

58 

298 

23 

— 

it 

D.F.  Schafer  4 

196 

51 

497 

29 

1 

tt 

Mensch  .    . 

4 

104 

45 

304 

16 

4 

<( 

Melsheimer . 

4 

125 

245 

607 

47 

4 

tt 

Hecht     .    . 

2 

124 

— 

203 

37 

1 

a 

Miiller    .    . 

3 

137 

68 

660 

24 

5 

tt 

Flohr      .    . 

- 

164 

28 

301 

27 

3 

«( 

Knosky  .    . 

7 

230 

52 

1092 

33 

— 

« 

Ullerich 

6 

155 

73 

950 

31 

6 

tt 

Ernst      .    . 

5 

152 

40 

381 

36 

4 

SEVENTY-SECOND  CONVENTION,   1819. 


535 


Congre- 

Bap- 

Con- 

Communi- 

De- 

Preachers. 

gations. 

tized. 

firmed. 

cants. 

ceased. 

Schools 

Mi 

Rehman  . 

.    .    4 

140 

113 

571 

15 

4 

« 

Engel  .    . 

.    .    7 

100 

64 

480 

33 

8 

■« 

Meendsen 

.    7 

162 

102 

853 

82 

6 

«< 

Becker    . 

.    3 

117 

62 

250 

35 

2 

u 

Kessler   . 

.    - 

68 

19 

161 

14 

3 

II 

Sackman 

.    3 

65 

42 

153 

10 

— 

l( 

Miinig 

.    - 

191 

141 

692 

60 

8 

■« 

Heim  .    . 

.    7 

212 

63 

464 

25 

9 

a 

Tiedeman 

.    5 

99 

72 

120 

23 

— 

" 

Hemping 

.    7 

238 

70 

907 

25 

7 

i. 

Scbindel 

.    - 

136 

92 

924 

16 

3 

i< 

Herbst,  Jr. 

.    5 

196 

49 

454 

31 

3 

« 

Filbert    .    . 

.    6 

118 

6Q 

502 

43 

3 

ic 

Reck   .    . 

.    5 

150 

126 

815 

18 

— 

<< 

Probst     . 

.    4 

219 

Q5 

516 

43 

4 

i. 

Strein  .    . 

.    5 

102 

38 

350 

14 

4 

u 

During    .    . 

.    6 

171 

78 

825 

37 

8 

Candid. 

^TES. 

Mr 

Scriba     .    . 

.    4 

47 

— 

83 

11 

3 

<( 

Osterloh 

.    4 

94 

20 

185 

8 

1 

i« 

Weyand 

.    3 

60 

19 

338 

12 

1 

« 

Heim,  Jr    . 

.    8 

246 

83 

507 

17 

8 

.< 

B.  Kurz  .    . 

.    5 

149 

112 

600 

30 

3 

<( 

Keller     .    . 

.    8 

213 

84 

761 

30 

2 

ti 

Meierbeffer 

.    1 

163 

55 

251 

12 

3 

<( 

Cruse  .    .    . 

.    1 

7 

33 

43 

1 

— 

<< 

Repns  .    .    . 

.    - 

147 

35 

205 

21 

5 

<« 

( Iramer    .    . 

.    1 

31 

— 

— 

1 

— 

(i 

Heyer     .    . 

.    - 

60 

60 

250 

7 

1 

■« 

Stecher    .    . 

.    4 

92 

78 

579 

17 

3 

■« 

Kehler    .    . 

.    3 

49 

— 

120 

5 

— 

« 

Trumbaur  . 

.    2 

56 

46 

136 

9 

3 

.< 

Haal   .    .    . 

130 

30 

420 

16 

4 

«i 

Kessler   .   . 

.    2 

165 

43 

234 

4 

2 

<i 

ahaine 

r  .    2 

45 

52 

250 

8 

3 

« 

German  .    . 

.    3 

113 

20 

134 

7 

3 

<< 

Schulz     .    . 

.    2 

42 

5 

15 

2 

1 

<< 

Scbmick     . 

.    5 

77 

138 

373 

4 

2 

536  DOCUMENTARY  HISTOEY. 


Mr. 


Preachers. 
Miiller    .    . 

Congre- 
gations. 

.    3 

Bap- 
tized. 

130 

Con- 
firmed. 

65 

Communi- 
cants. 

650 

De- 
ceased. 

23 

Schools. 
2 

Griiber    .    . 

.    4 

47 

37 

316 

9 

3 

H.  A.  Kurz 

.    - 

52 

— 

— 

4 

— 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

This  evening  Mr.  Reck  preached  in  the  Lutheran  Church  on  Gal. 
6  :  14,  and  Mr.  Hecht  in  the  Reformed  Church  on  I  Pet.  2  :  21,  and 
Mr.  Herbst,  Sr.,  in  the  Otterbein  Church  on  John  14  :  23  . 

Wednesday,  9  a.m. 

The  session  was  opened  with  singing  and  prayer. 

The  committee  which  had  been  appointed  to  examine  into  the  matter 
of  Mr.  Demme  and  the  three  congregations  of  Hummelstown,  Maxe 
and  Bindnagel's,  made  the  following  report :  After  receiving  the  writ- 
ten and  verbal  testimonies,  it  appeared  that  the  congregations  of  Bind- 
nagel's is  so  taken  up  with  Mr.  German,  and  the  others  with  Mr.  Demme, 
that  they  would  rather  separate  than  either  give  up  their  preacher.  The 
committee  had  done  everything  it  could  to  unite  the  congregations 
again,  but  prayer  and  everything  were  in  vain.  The  committee  recom- 
mends that  the  matter  be  left  as  it  is  at  present,  particularly  as  it  ap- 
pears that  it  is  the  desire  of  the  preachers  and  congregations  that  mat- 
ters shall  stand  as  they  are.  The  Synod  would  consequently  have  no 
blame  if  things  would  not  turn  out  for  the  congregations  according  to 
their  wishes. 

Resolved,  That  the  report  of  the  committee  be  accepted. 

Concerning  the  question,  What  shall  be  done  with  the  Magazines  left 
over  ?  it  was  resolved  that  they  shall  all  be  sent  to  Harrisburg  to  Mr. 
Lochman,  in  order  that  he  may  have  them  sorted  at  the  cost  of  the 
Synod. 

As  Messrs.  G.  Schafer  and  Maund  desire  to  transfer  their  copyright 
of  the  Agenda  to  the  Synod,  it  was 

Resolved,  That  notice  should  be  given  of  this  in  the  minutes  of  this 
year's  Synod. 

Resolved,  That  an  order  shall  be  given  to  Mr.  G.  Schafer  on  the 
Treasurer  of  the  Synod,  to  pay  to  him  $510.59$  out  of  the  Synodical 
Treasury,  for  1475  copies  of  the  Agenda  and  for  the  expenses  con- 
nected therewith. 

Hereupon  Messrs.  G.  Schafer  and  Maund  transferred  their  copyright 
on  the  Agenda  in  the  following  words  : 

"  We  the  undersigned,  do  certify,  that  after  having  received  the  full 
"  value,  we  have  transferred  the  copyright  on  the  'Agenda '  to  the  Rev. 


SEVENTY-SECOND  CONVENTION,   1819  537 

"J.  G.  Schmucker,  President  of  the  German  Evangelical  Lutheran 
■•  Synod  in  Pennsylvania  and  adjacent  States,  and  to  his  successors,  for 
•'  the  entire  use  and  profit  of  said  Synod.  This  we  do  certify.  Schiiffer 
"and  Maund.     Done  in  Baltimore,  June  8,  1819." 

Further  Resolved.  That  a  copy  of  our  ''Agenda"  be  given  free  of 
charge  to  each  preacher,  and  each  congregation  of  our  connection. 

Further  Resolved,  That  at  the  expense  of  the  Synod,  the  Secretary 
shall  provide  two  books  in  which  to  enter  the  names  of  the  preachers, 
the  congregations,  and  what  they  pay  yearly  into  the  treasury. 

On  the  question,  what  shall  be  done  with  the  remaining  "Agenda,"  it 
was 

Resolved,  That  they  shall  be  put  into  the  hands  of  Mr.  G.  SchafFer, 
bookseller  in  Baltimore,  to  sell  them  for  the  Synod  at  fifty  cents  per 
copy. 

Pastor  Endress  now  made  a  verbal  report,  in  the  name  of  the  com- 
mittee, appointed  the  previous  year,  to  confer  with  a  committee  of  the 
Reverend  Reformed  Synod  concerning  the  matter  of  Franklin  College 
at  Lancaster. 

Resolved,  That  one  hundred  dollars  shall  be  paid  out  of  our  treasury 
towards  the  support  of  the  College  at  Lancaster,  provided  the  Reverend 
Synod  of  the  Reformed  does  the  same. 

Further  Resolved,  That  a  committee  on  our  part  be  appointed  to  meet 
at  the  next  Reformed  Synod  at  Lancaster,  with  a  committee  of  the  same, 
to  prepare  a  plan  for  a  Theological  Seminary. 

Resolved,  That  Pastors  Schmucker,  Endress,  Lochman,  Muhlenberg 
and  Ernst  shall  constitute  the  committee. 

Further  Resolved,  That  through  Mr.  Endress,  fifty  copies  of  the  trans- 
actions of  our  Synod  of  this  year,  shall  be  presented  to  the  Reverend 
Reformed  Synod,  which  is  to  meet  the  next  time  at  Lancaster. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

Wednesday,  3  p.m. 

The  session  was  opened  with  prayer. 

It  was  resolved,  that  the  Secretary  shall  have  five  hundred  copies  of 
the  transactions  of  this  year's  Synod  printed,  and  that  each  preacher 
and  each  congregation  shall  receive  a  copy. 

The  committee  which  had  been  appointed  to  prepare  a  plan  for  a 
General  Synod,  reported.  But  it  was  resolved  to  postpone  the  matter 
until  to-morrow. 

On  the  question  :  Shall  traveling  preachers  be  appointed  ?  it  was 
]   solved  to  refer  the  matter  to  the  Ministerium. 

N.  B. — This  point  was  also  resolved,  that  the  President  shall  earn- 


53S  DOCUMENTAKY   HISTORY. 

estly  reruiud  the  gentlemen  who  absent  themselves  altogether  too  much 
from  the  session  of  the  Synod.     This  was  done. 
The  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

Thursday,  6  a.m. 

The  session  was  opened  with  singing  and  prayer. 

The  postponed  matter  of  the  General  Synod  was  taken  up. 

Resolved,  To  put  the  matter  to  a  vote.  The  votes  were  gathered,  and 
it  was  found  there  were  forty-two  for  the  General  Synod,  and  eight 
against  the  same. 

Then  upon  motion  of  the  committee,  it  was  resolved,  that  the  Plan 
shall  be  handed  over  to  Mr.  Endress  for  revision,  who  shall  have  six 
hundred  copies  of  it  printed,  and  shall  then  transmit  them  to  the  Presi- 
dent, so  that  he  may  send  each  preacher  and  each  congregation  a  copy. 
Further  Resolved,  That  Dr.  Kurz  shall  send  fifty  copies  to  Mr.  Gottlieb 
Schober,  in  North  Carolina. 

Further  Resolved,  That  each  preacher  shall  send  to  the  Secretary  his 
name,  residence,  the  names  and  number  of  his  congregations. 

Resolved,  That  each  of  our  widows  shall  receive  sixteen  dollars. 

With  reference  to  the  request  of  Mr.  Schulz,  it  was  resolved  that  his 
wish  cannot  be  granted. 

The  election  of  the  time  and  place  for  the  next  Synod  was  held. 
Lancaster  was  chosen  as  the  place,  and  Trinity  Sunday  as  the  time. 

The  President  closed  the  Synodical  Meeting  with  singing  and  prayer, 
and  dismissed  the  same  with  devout  benediction. 

MINISTERIAL  MEETING. 

The  business  was  begun  in  the  morning. 

The  candidates  handed  in  their  papers  through  the  preachers,  to 
whom  they  were  submitted  for  examination. 

The  following  applicants  were  present,  namely:  Messrs.  Gottlieb 
Jager,  Michael  Wachter,  Carl  Demme,  Carl  Kraut,  [Chas.  Phil.  Krauth] 
Jacob  Kriigler,  George  Stein,  L.  H.  Meier  and  Heinrich  Kurz. 

Committees  were  appointed  to  examine  the  candidates. 

The  first  committee  was  composed  of  Messrs.  Dr.  SchiifFer,  Lochman, 
Endress  and  Muhlenberg.  Messrs.  Wachter,  Kraut,  Jiiger  and  Demme 
were  assigned  to  them.  The  second  committee  was  composed  of  Messrs. 
Rothrauff,  Hecht,  Ernst  and  Steck\  To  them  were  assigned  Messrs. 
Kriigler,  Stein,  Meier  and  Kurz.  The  candidates  and  applicants  now 
withdrew,  and  the  Ministerium  went  to  work. 

No.  1.  The  matter  of  Mr.  Cramer  was  first  taken  up.     The  Minis- 


SEVENTY-SECOND  CONVENTION,   1819.  539 

terium  heard  the  complaints  with  deep  regret,  and  believed  that  the 
same  were  fully  substantiated. 

Resolved,  That  his  license  shall  not  be  renewed. 

The  committees  appointed  to  examine  the  applicants  gave  to  the 
Ministerium,  with  several  exceptions,  a  favorable  testimonial  for 
them. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Demme  shall  receive  a  candidate's  license ;  Mr. 
Kraut  also,  as  soon  as  he  receives  a  call.  Also  resolved,  that  Mr. 
Wachter  shall  receive  a  candidate's  license  on  condition  that,  at  his 
own  expense,  he  journey  to  Bedford  County,  in  the  State  of  Tennessee, 
as  traveling  preacher.  Kriigler  and  Stein  shall  receive  a  candidate's 
license.  Gottlieb  Jager  shall  receive  a  catechist's  license  in  the  congre- 
gations which  have  given  him  a  call,  under  the  supervision  of  Mr, 
Engel. 

With  reference  to  Applicant  Kurz,  it  was  resolved  that  Applicant 
Kurz  be  directed  to  place  himself  under  a  suitable  instructor,  in  order 
to  continue  his  studies,  and  if,  meanwhile,  he  receive  congregations,  the 
officers  of  the  Ministerium  shall  grant  him  a  catechist's  license. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

Thursday,  3  p.m. 

The  session  was  opened  with  prayer. 

Upon  motion  of  Mr.  Schober,  it  was  now 

/.' Dived,  That  the  Synod  henceforth  will  receive  no  foreigner  into 
its  connection,  except  he  has  resided  for  three  years  in  the  United  States, 
unless  he  be  recommended  to  us  as  an  ordained  preacher  on  good  written 
evidence  from  worthy  men  in  Europe. 

No.  2.  A  letter  from  Berlin,  in  which  the  congregation  asks  for  Mr. 
Kriigler  as  preacher,  was  read,  and  their  request  was  granted. 

No.  3.  A  letter  from  our  venerable  Senior,  Dr.  Helmuth,  was  read, 
and  considered  in  all  its  points.  Resolved,  That  the  President  answer 
the  same. 

>«"o.  4.  Mr.  Plitt's  letter  was  read,  and  his  excuse  for  absence  was 
accepted. 

No.  5.  The  letter  of  Mr.  Carpenter  was  read  and  listened  to  with 
great  attention  and  much  sympathy.  The  Ministerium  regrets  that 
our  worthy  Mr.  (  arpenter  is  also  troubled  by  the  English  in  his  con- 
gregation, and  advisee  him  to  act  in  accord  with  the  majority  of  his 
congregation. 

No  6.  Mr.  Goeseman'a  letter  was  rend,  and  the  Ministerium  advised 
him  to  put  himself  under  any  suitable  pastor  of  our  connection,  in  order 
to  continue  his  studies. 


540  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

No.  7.  Mr.  Molther's  letter  was  read,  and  it  was 

Resolved,  That  he  shall  be  received  by  us  as  a  member,  in  case  the 
President  of  the  York  Synod  give  our  President  a  favorable  testimonial 
in  his  behalf,  that  he  was  a  member  of  their  Ministerium,  and  as  a 
preacher  had  conducted  himself  among  them  in  an  irreproachable 
manner. 

The  preachers  to  whom  the  writings  of  the  candidates  had  been  given 
for  examination  now  reported  on  them.  Their  judgment  was,  for  the 
most  part,  favorable  to  the  candidates.  Bat  it  was  remarked  that 
several  ought  to  practice  orthography  more. 

Resolved,  That  the  candidates'  licenses  shall  be  renewed,  with  the 
exception  of  Mr.  Cramer's. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  H.  A.  Kurz  shall  receive  a  candidate's  license 
as  soon  as  he  has  received  a  call  from  a  congregation. 

Resolved,  That  Messrs.  Osterloh,  Meierheffer,  Keller,  Kurz  and 
Heim,  Jr.,  shall  be  ordained  as  deacons  to-night  in  the  church,  and 
that,  at  the  same  time,  the  President  shall  read  their  duties  to  the  can- 
didates and  catechists. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

This  evening,  according  to  the  resolution,  the  following  gentlemen 
were  ordained  deacons  by  the  officers  and  those  assisting,  namel)',  Dr. 
Schiifer,  Dr.  Kurz  and  Pastor  Muhlenberg,  namely:  Mr.  Osterloh, 
Meierheffer,  Keller,  Kurz  and  Heim,  Jr.  As  candidates,  were  licensed, 
1.  Mr.  Wachter ;  2.  Mr.  Kraut ;  3.  Mr.  Kriigler ;  4.  Mr.  Stein,  and 
5.  Mr.  Demme.     Mr.  Gottlieb  Jager  was  licensed  as  catechist. 

Friday,  a.m. 
Several  matters  were  disposed  of. 

1.  Mr.  Osterloh  was  given  permission  to  visit  the  congregations  which 
Mr.  K,epas  desires  to  have  visited. 

2.  Mr.  Stein  was  given  permission  to  accept  the  congregations  at 
Jonestown,  Stumpstown  and  Wellmers. 

3.  Mr.  Steelier  was  given  permission  to  preach,  on  his  way  home,  to 
the  congregations  in  York  County,  which  Mr.  Herbst  resigned,  and, 
in  case  they  call  him,  permission  to  accept  them. 

After  the  business  had  been  completed,  a  hymn  was  sung,  and  the 
President  closed  with  an  earnest  prayer.  The  merciful  God  and  Saviour 
be  thanked  devoutly  for  the  assistance  of  His  grace  given  for  the  accom- 
plishment of  so  much  business,  and  for  the  precious  peace  which  he  has 
maintained  among  us  May  all  our  doings  redound  to  His  honor,  and 
to  the  great  blessing  of  His  church,  for  Christ's  sake.     Amen. 

Attest:  Joet.  Con.  Jager, 

President  pro  tern. 


PLAN  FOR  A  GENERAL  SYNOD. 

Proposed  by  the  Ministerium  of  Pennsylvania. 
1819. 


[Partial  translation  in  "Lutheran  and  Missionary,"  Nov.  9, 1865;  also  "  Luth- 
eran Church  Review,"  Vol.  XL,  Art.  III.,  p.  64-67.  The  present  translation  is 
based  upon  these  two,  the  latter  of  which  is  almost  complete.  The  German  edition 
used  is  that  of  Henkel.] 

A   Proposed  Plan  (Plan  Extwukf)   for  a  Central,  Union   (zu  einer 

CENTRAL-VEKKINDtNCi)     OF   THE    EVANGELICAL    LUTHERAN    ClIURCH    IN 

the  United  States  of  North  America,  Baltimore,  1S19. 

Whereas,  under  the  guidance  of  God,  the  Evangelical  Lutheran 
Church  has  spread  itself  over  the  greater  part  of  the  United  States  of 
North  America,  and  the  members  thereof  are  earnestly  striving  to  live 
together  in  the  spirit  of  love  and  harmony  under  one  rule  of  faith,  it 
has  l>een  customary  heretofore  for  the  ministers,  and  in  most  cases  also 
for  the  lay  delegates  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  congregations  to  meet 
annually  in  Synods,  or,  as  others  call  it,  Ministeriums,  in  order  to  keep 
the  bond  of  love  and  unity,  and  amicably  to  settle  any  differences  that 
might  arise.  But  inasmuch  as  the  number  of  particular  Synods  or 
Ministeriums  has  increased  from  time  to  time,  on  account  of  the  wide 
extension  of  said  church,  and  the  continued  and  increasing  operation  of 
tli.'  same  cause  will  probably  lead  to  the  still  further  increase  of  the 
number  of  Synods  and  Ministeriums,  and  this  might  in  the  end  be  the 
means  of  bringing  about  unnecessary  and  injurious  divisions  and  depar- 
tures from  the  end  and  object  hitherto  pursued  in  common  by  said 
church  ;  it  appears  to  be  the  almost  universal  wish  of  the  existing 
Synods  or  Ministeriums,  that  a  fraternal  union  of  the  whole  Evangelical 
Liu  lit  ran  Church  in  these  United  States  may  be  effected  by  means  of 
a  cent  nil  organization. 

How  such  a  union  and  organization  might  be  effected  was  ;i  principal 
topic  of  consideration  at  the  meeting  of  the  Synod  of  Pennsylvania  and 
th"  Adjacent  State-,  which  was  held  during  Trinity  week  of  the  year 
1819,  at  Ealtimore,  and  this  so  much  the  more,  inasmuch  as  the  Rev. 

541 


542  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

and  highly  esteemed  Pastor  Schober,  of  the  Synod  of  North  Carolina, 
attended  this  meeting  as  a  special  delegate  in  reference  to  this  particular 
subject.  The  -whole  subject  was  placed  in  the  hands  of  a  special  com- 
mittee, with  instructions  to  prepare  with  the  concurrence  of  Rev.  Mr. 
Schober  a  plan,  which,  if  found  acceptable,  might  be  submitted  for 
adoption  to  all  the  other  Synods  or  Ministeriums  in  the  United  States. 
The  committee  appointed  for  this  purpose  reported  the  following : 

Proposed  Plan  (Plan  Entwurf). 

1.  This  central  union  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church  in  these 
United  States  shall  be  carried  into  effect  and  maintained  by  an  organi- 
zation to  be  called  The  General  Synod  of  the  Evangelical  Luth- 
eran Church  in  the  United  States  of  North  America. 

2.  This  General  Synod  shall  be  composed  of  delegates  from  all  the 
Synods  now  existing  in  the  United  States,  and  of  such  as  may  be 
organized  in  future,  which  join  this  union,  in  the  following  ratio  of 
representation,  viz. : 

Every  Synod  composed  of  six  ministers  may  send  one  ;  of  fourteen, 
two ;  of  twenty-five,  three  ;  of  forty,  four ;  of  sixty,  five  ;  and  of  eighty- 
six,  six  clerical  delegates  to  the  General  Synod,  and  for  every  two 
clerical  one  lay  delegate.  In  case,  however,  a  Synod  is  entitled  to  only 
one  clerical  delegate,  such  Synod  shall  also  have  the  right  to  send  with 
him  one  lay  delegate. 

All  delegates  appearing  in  the  General  Synod  in  accordance  with  the 
above  ratio  shall  have  equal  privileges  and  equal  votes  as  members  of 
the  body.  The  manner  of  electing  delegates,  as  well  as  the  mode  of 
meeting  their  expenses,  is  left  to  the  discretion  of  each  Synod. 

3.  The  General  Synod  elects  its  own  officers,  whose  [term  of]  office 
continues  until  the  next  General  Synod  ;  and  fixes  the  time  and  place 
of  the  next  meeting,  in  such  manner,  however,  that  at  least  one  General 
Synod  is  held  in  three  years. 

4.  The  General  Synod  has  the  exclusive  right  with  the  concurrence 
of  a  majority  of  the  particular  Synods  to  introduce  new  books  for  gen- 
eral use  in  the  public  church  service  as  well  as  to  make  improvements 
in  the  Liturgy;  but  until  this  be  done  the  hymn-books  or  collections  of 
hymns  now  in  use,  the  Small  Catechism  of  Luther,  the  Agenda  already 
adopted,  and  such  other  books  as  have  been  adopted  by  the  existing 
Synods  shall  continue  in  public  use  at  pleasure.  But  the  General  Synod 
has  no  power  to  make  or  demand  any  change  whatever  in  the  doctrines 
(Glaubens  lehren)  hitherto  received  among  us. 

5.  If  twenty-five  ministers  living  in  close  proximity  in  a  fixed  district, 
of  whom,  however,  at  least  fifteen  must  be  ordained  ministers,  make 


PLAN  FOR  A  GENERAL  SYNOD,   1819.  543 

application  to  the  General  Synod  to  be  permitted  to  form  a  Synod  by 
themselves,  and  the  Synod  to  which  they  have  hitherto  belonged  having 
received  formal  notice  of  their  intention  to  make  the  application,  which 
notice  must  first  be  given  in  every  instance,  presents  no  weighty  reasons 
to  the  contrary,  the  General  Synod  has  authority  to  grant  their  appli- 
cation. And  if  there  should  be  no  separate  Synod  in  an  entire  State, 
and  six;  ordained  ministers  living  in  it  should  make  application  for  that 
purpose]  the  General  Synod  shall  permit  the  formation  of  a  new  Synod 
in  that  State.  But  until  the  consent  or  permission  of  the  General  Synod 
has  been  formally  given  to  it,  no  newly-organized  body  shall  be  recog- 
nized as  a  Ministerium  among  us,  and  no  ordination  performed  by  it 
shall  be  recognized  as  valid  by  us. 

6.  Those  Synods  now  existing,  as  well  as  those  formally  recognized  or 
organized  by  the  General  Synod,  shall  never  be  hindered  in  the  appoint- 
ing and  ordaining  of  ministers  at  their  own  discretion  within  their  own 
bounds.  They  also  retain  forever  the  privilege  of  establishing  rules  and 
regulations  with  regard  to  the  internal  arrangement  and  control  of  the 
affairs  of  their  own  districts;  provided,  however,  that  such  rules  and 
regulations  are  not  in  conflict  with  these  fundamental  articles  of  the 
general  organization  ;  and  only  in  cases  of  appeal  can  the  General  Synod 
have  anything  to  do  with  such  internal  rules  and  regulations  of  the 
particular  Synods. 

7.  The  General  Synod  is  authorized  by  and  with  the  approval  of  a 
majority  of  the  particular  Synods  or  Ministeriums  proper,  to  fix  grades 
in  the  ministry  which  are  to  be  generally  recognized.  But  until  this  be 
done,  the  grades  at  present  established  by  the  particular  Ministeriums 
shall  continue  as  now  in  force. 

8.  If  by  reason  of  human  frailty  dissension  or  division  in  regard  to 
doctrine  or  discipline  should  arise  in  any  Ministerium,  such  dissensions 
or  divisions  shall  be  brought  before  the  General  Synod  for  decision  only 
when  a  full  third  of  the  members  of  such  Ministerium  present  appeal 
to  it  for  that  purpose. 

9.  Every  minister  who  is  not  satisfied  with  the  decision  of  his  Synod 
witli  reference  to  himself  personally,  his  conduct  or  his  administration 
of  his  office,  has  the  right  to  appeal  to  the  General  Synod. 

10.  Each  Synod  retains  the  right  of  granting  to  visiting  ministers 
from  other  Synods  voice  and  vote.  But  no  minister  shall  have  the  right 
to  go  from  one  Synod  to  another  as  a  full  member,  unless  be  present  a 
certificate  in  which  the  officers  of  the  Synod  to  which  he  belonged  set 
forth  his  grade  in  office,  attest  his  good  character  to  the  best  of  their 
knowledge  and  declare  their  consent  to  his  transfer. 

11.  This  proposed  plan  is  to  be  sent  to  all  Evangelical  Lutheran 


544  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Synods  or  Ministeriums  in  these  United  States  as  a  proposal  fur  a  gen- 
eral organization.  Those  Synods  or  Ministeriums  which  adopt  the 
same  at  least  in  its  spirit  and  substance,  are  to  notify  the  President  of 
the  Synod  of  Pennsylvania  and  adjacent  States  as  soon  as  possible. 
And  if  it  be  found  that  three-fourths  of  the  Synods  or  Ministeriums 
aforesaid  have  adopted  it,  as  already  set  forth,  then  he,  the  President 
aforesaid,  shall  make  the  same  known  to  all  the  Synods  or  Ministeriums 
who  have  adopted  it.  At  the  same  time  he  shall  designate  the  place 
where  and  the  time  when  the  first  General  Synod  is  to  be  held,  and 
communicate  that  also  to  the  afore-mentioned  Synods  or  Ministeriums. 
These  then  elect  their  delegates,  who  in  their  convention  may  act  as 
General  Synod,  and  frame  a  constitution  for  themselves,  as  much  as 
possible,  however,  in  agreement  with  the  above-mentioned  "  Plan-Ent- 
wurf." 

Note. — Where  the  word  "Synod"  is  found  in  the  above  "Proposed 
Plan  "  with  the  addition  "  or  Ministerium,"  it  stands  for  Synod  or  Min- 
isterium  according  to  the  name  in  use  by  the  bodies  of  which  the  Pro- 
posed Plan  actually  speaks.  But  when  the  word  "  Ministerium  "  stands 
alone,  or  "  Ministeriums "  proper  are  spoken  of,  this  word  denotes  a 
body  consisting  of  preachers  alone,  which  might  use  the  right  of  ordi- 
nation. 

The  above  Proposed  Plan  was  in  substance  adopted  in  the  Synod  of 
Pennsylvania  and  adjacent  States  by  a  large  majority  of  votes,  as  a 
proposition  for  a  central  union  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Church  in 
the  United  States  of  North  America. 

Attested.  J.  Georg  Schmucker, 

President. 

Conrad  Jager, 

Secretary. 


SEVENTY-THIRD   CONVENTION. 

1820. 


On  Trinity  Sunday,  May  28,  1820,  the  attending  preachers  and  del- 
egates assembled  in  the  parsonage,  in  the  city  of  Lancaster,  and  at  10 
a.m.,  went  in  procession  to  the  church.  Pastor  Schmucker,  President 
of  the  Ministerium,  preached  on  II  Cor.  5 :  14,  at  3  p.m.  Pastor 
Jager,  Secretary  of  the  Ministerium,  preached  on  John  21 :  15-17.  In 
the  evening  Pastor  Miihlenberg,  Treasurer  of  the  Ministerium  and 
Synod,  preached  on  I  Pet.  4:  5. 

In  the  Kelbnned  Church,  Pastor  Knoske  preached  in  the  morning  on 
Rom.  6:  14.  In  the  afternoon  Pastor  D.  F.  Schiiffer  preached  on 
Rom.  7  :  24,  25.  In  the  evening  Candidate  Krusy  [Cruse1]  preached 
in  the  Moravian  Church  in  the  English  language  on  Isa.  57 :  15. 


FIRST  SESSION 

Monday  9  a.m. 

(The  reverend  preachers  and  the  delegates  met  in  the  church,  and 
the  session  was  opened  with  singing  and  prayer,  conducted  by  the  Pres- 
ident). 

The  Following  Preachers  were  Present. 

I.  Pastors. 

Mr.  Daniel  Kurz,  D.D.   .  .    .  Baltimore. 

"  Job..  Conrad  Jager  .    .    .  Allentown. 

"  Georg  Schmucker    .    .    .  Yorktown. 

"  Georg  Lochman,  D.D.  .  .  Harrisburg. 

"  "Willi.  Geisenhainer,  Sr.   .  Vincent  (Pikeland). 

"  Christian  Endress,  D.D. .  Lancaster. 

"  (Johannes)  Rothrauf  .    .  Greencastle. 

"  Heinrich  Geisenhainer    .  Pottsgrove. 

[  l  AfterwanLs  successively  Assistant  Professor  in  the  University  of  Pennsylvania 
and  Librarian  of  the  General  Theological  Seminary  of  the  Episcopal  Church,  New- 
York  ;  Translator  from  the  Greek  of  the  Ecclesiastical  History  of  Ehudrius} 
35  545 


546  DOCUMENTAEY  HISTORY. 

Mr.  Heinrich  Muhlenberg  .    .  Beading. 

"  George  Griiber     ....  York  County. 

"  Herbst,  Sr Manchester. 

"  Moller Chambersburg. 

"  Roller Alt  Goshenhoppen. 

"  Knoske Coatstown  (Kutztown). 

"  Mensch Springfield. 

"  D.  F.  Schiiffer Friederichtown. 

"  Hecht Easton. 

"  Miller Falconer  Swamp. 

"  Ulrich Tulpehocken. 

"  Ernst Lebanon. 

"  Rebenack Somerset  County. 

II.  Deacons. 

Mr.  Rehmann Abbotstown. 

«  Batis Warwick,  Lancaster  County, 

"  Engel Hamburg. 

"  Meendsen Lecha  Township. 

"  Heim,  Sr Union  County. 

"  Miinnich Orwigsburg. 

"  Hemping Lyken's  Valley. 

"  Schindel Sunbury. 

"  Herbst,  Jr Gettysburg. 

"  Reck Winchester. 

"  Filbert New  Holland. 

"  Probst Forks  Township. 

"  Doring Jordan. 

"  Strein Columbia. 

"  Scriba Strasburg,  Franklin  County. 

"  Meyerhofer Madison  County  (Va.) 

"  Keller Carlisle. 

"  B.  Kurz Hagerstown. 

"  Heim,  Jr Mifflin  County. 

"  Osterlo Huntingdon  County. 

III.  Candidates. 

Mr.  Schnee Middletown. 

"  Kruse Philadelphia. 

"  Rebaa Centreville. 

"  Heyer Cumberland,  Maryland. 


SEVENTY-THIRD  CONVENTION,  1820.  547 

Mr.  Stecker York  County. 

"  Kohler (Middletowu,  Maryland). 

"  Trumbauer Leacock,  Lancaster  County. 

"  Haal Newville. 

"  Kessler Bloomsburg. 

"  Jiiger Philadelphia. 

"  Schmick Sinking  Valley,  Huntingdon  Co. 

"  Geisenhaincr,  Jr.      .    .    .  Vincent  (Pikeland). 

"  Miller Neustore. 

"  Germann Womelsdorf. 

"  Schulze Johnstown,  Cambria  County. 

'•  Graber Westminster  (Maryland). 

"  Demme Hummelstown. 

"  Kraut  [Krauth]  ....  Martinsburg,  Va. 

"  "Wachter Traveling  Preacher. 

"  Kriigler Berlin,  Somerset  County. 

"  Stein Jonestown. 

"  H.  A.  Kurz Beardstown,  Nelson  Co.,  Kentucky. 

IV.  Catechists. 
Mr.  Gottlieb  Jiiger  .    .  Jacksonville,  Berks  (Lecha)  County. 
"    Heinrich  Kurz  .    .  Plainfield. 

The  absent  preachers,  some  of  whom  presented  excuses,  and  others, 
not,  were : 

Rev.  J.  H.  Ch.  Helmuth,  D  D.,  Senior  of  the  Ministerium.1 
"    F.  D.  Schafer,  D.D.1  Mr.  Haas.2 

Mr.  Carpenter.2  "    Riemenschneider,1 

"    Henkel.2  "    Becker.1 

"    Grab.2  "    Sackmann.1 

«    Plitt.1  "    Stock.1 

"    Melsheimer.2  "    "Wartmann.1 

"    Vanhofi:1  "    Rupert.1 

"    Ilgen.1  ,(    Kessler,  Sr.1 

"    Flohr.1  "    Weyand.1 

Mr.  Walz.1 

The  following  delegates  presented  credentials  (and  were  given  a  seat 
and  a  vote) : 

Mr.  Peter  Lich  ten  waiter Allentown. 

"    Joh.  Hew Yorktown. 

1  With  excuse.  2  Without  excuse. 


548  DOCUMENTAKY  HISTOEY. 

Mr.  Ch.  Kuukel Harrisburg. 

"  Wilhelm  Henzel  and  \  [Lancaster, 

"  George  Kouig  j  I  with  but  one  vote. 

"  Benjamin  Rener Pikeland. 

"  Samuel  Clark Greencastle. 

"  Johannes  Becker York  County. 

"  Peter  Stichter Reading. 

"  Ch.  Gerber Manchester. 

"  Michael  Hubly Chambersburg. 

"  Jacob  Hill  ....*•...  Kutztown. 

"  Peter  Raub Springfield. 

"  Joh.  Fessler Friedrichstown. 

"  Joh.  Trumbauer Falckner  Schwamm. 

"  Andreas  Graf Tulpehocken. 

"  Joh.  Endress Lebanon. 

"  Wilhelm  Trostel Abbotstown. 

"  Jacob  Galentin Warwick. 

"  Joh.  Bentemann Hamburg. 

"  J.  W.  Schmidt Sunbury. 

"  Michael  (Wilhelm)  Strein    .    .  Gettysburg. 

"  Friedrich  Seger  (Siiger)    .    .    .  New  Holland. 

"  Joseph  Emmerich Forks  Township. 

"  Friedrich  Bauer Elizabethtown. 

"  Ephraim  Frey  (Fray)  ....  Madison  County. 

"  Jacob  Wormly  . Carlisle. 

"  Conrad  Hiltebrand Hagerstown. 

"  George  Stiiber Mechanicsburg. 

"  Joh.  Bieber Penn's  Valley. 

"  George  Kleinfelder York  County, 

"  Adam  Reuzahn Middletown. 

"  Joh.  Bart Leacock. 

"  Peter  Blaser Newville. 

"  Joseph  Brotzmann Bloomsburg 

"  Jonathan  Kiister Newstore. 

"  Jacob  Biel Westminster. 

"  Nikolaus  Allemann  (Altemann)  Hummelstown. 

"  Joh.  Matter Scheppertstown. 

"  Philip  Gerbering Jonestown. 

"  Joh.  Stein Berks  County. 

"  Heinrich  Lehr Plainfield. 

Accordingly  the  Synod  was,  at  this  time,  composed  of  107  members. 


SEVENTY-THIRD  CONVENTION,  1820.  549 

The  Rev.  Mr.  Wackerhagen,  Secretary  of  the  venerable  Lutheran 
Synod  of  the  State  of  New  York,  presented  bis  credentials  as  a  delegate 
of  the  said  Synod,  and  was  given  a  seat  and  vote  in  our  midst. 

The  Rev.  Mr.  Schaffner,  delegate  of  the  reverend  Reformed  Synod, 
took  his  seat  as  an  advisory  member. 

After  all  had  taken  their  regular  seats,  the  election  of  officers  was 

held. 

Pastor  Schmucker  was  again  elected  President. 
Pastor  Jiiger  was  again  elected  Secretary. 
Pastor  Muhlenberg  was  again  elected  Treasurer. 

The  communications  were  called  in  by  the  President,  numbered  and 
divided  among  six  committees  to  examine  the  contents  of  the  same,  and 
to  report  on  them  at  the  proper  time. 

On  the  first  committee  were  appointed  :  Dr.  Kurz,  Pastor  Geisen- 
hainer,  Sr.,  Deacon  Biitis  and  Candidate  Kruse,  as  preachers,  and 
Messrs.  Lichtenwalter  and  Heu  [Hay]  as  delegates. 

On  the  second  committee  were  appointed  :  Doctor  Lochman,  Pastor 
Miller,  Deacon  Engel  and  Candidate  Heyer,  as  preachers,  and  Messrs. 
Kunkel  and  Konig,  as  delegates. 

On  the  third  committee  were  appointed :  Pastors  Rothrauf  and 
Ernst,  Deacon  Meendsen  and  Candidate  Steelier,  as  preachers,  and 
Messrs.  Reuer  and  Michael  Hubly,  as  delegates. 

On  the  fourth  committee  were  appointed :  Pastors  Moller  and  Roller, 
Deacon  Hemping  and  Candidate  Jiiger,  as  preachers,  and  Messrs. 
Stichter  and  Fessler,  as  delegates.1 

On  the  fifth  committee  were  appointed :  Pastor  Knoske,  Deacons 
Schindel  and  Reck,  as  preachers,  and  Messrs.  Seger  and  Stein,  as 
delegates. 

On  the  sixth  committee  were  appointed  :  Pastors  D.  F.  Schafer  and 
TJlrich,  Deacons  Herbst  and  Filbert,  as  preachers,  and  Messrs.  Bente- 
mann  and  Matter,  as  delegatea. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 


SECOND  SESSION. 

Monday,  3  p.m. 

The  session  was  opened  with  singing  and  prayer. 

Pastor  Moller  moved  that  the  next  Synod  be  held  at  Chambersburg. 

Resolved,  To  leave  the  matter  until  the  impending  election. 

1  Tli is  was  omitted  at  its  proper  place,  and  inserted  under  the  report  of  the  first 
committee. 


550  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

The  first  committee  reported  on  the  communications  submitted  to  it: 

No.  1.  Mr.  Sackman's  excuse  for  absence  and  a  list  of  his  baptized,  etc. 

Resolved.  To  accept  his  excuse. 

No.  2.  Mr.  Weyand's  excuse  for  absence  and  the  information  that 
he  has  transmitted  his  sermon,  diary,  the  list  of  his  baptized,  etc.,  as 
well  as  his  license  for  renewal ;  but  the  committee  did  not  find  the  said 
papers  with  his  letter  of  excuse. 

Resolved,  to  accept  his  excuse. 

No.  3.  The  excuse  of  the  Rev.  Dr.  Helmuth,  Senior  of  the  Minister- 
ium,  for  his  absence  (who  also  wishes  for  the  Synod  all  divine  blessings). 
Also  a  similar  excuse  (and  wish)  from  Dr.  Schafer.  Resolved,  To 
accept  his  excuse.  The  rest  of  his  letter,  in  the  opinion  of  the  com- 
mittee, belongs  to  the  Ministerium. 

No.  4.  A  letter  of  Mr.  Ilgen,  in  which  he  makes  excuse  for  his  ab- 
sence and  transmits  the  list  of  his  baptized,  etc.  He  states  that  through 
his  sons  he  has  handed  to  Mr.  Schindel  the  following  sums  of  money 
for  the  Synodical  Treasury,  namely  :  63.21  for  the  year  1819  and 
$11.10  for  the  year  1820.  He  also  asks  for  a  copy  of  certain  docu- 
ments in  our  Archives  concerning  Ferdinand  Cramer. 

Resolved,  That  as  (according  to  our  Constitution),  each  member  of 
our  Synod,  in  case  of  necessity,  has  free  access  to  the  Archives,  he  is 
also  free,  if  it  is  necessary,  to  make  copies  of  said  documents. 

No.  5.  A  letter  from  Mr.  Stock,  in  which  he  asks  for  aid  in  his  needy 
circumstances. 

Resolved,  to  refer  the  matter  to  the  Ministerium. 

Also  an  excuse  for  absence  from  Mr.  Walz,  and  a  request  for  a 
license. 

Resolved,  to  refer  the  matter  to  the  Ministerium. 

No.  6.  A  letter  from  a  number  of  the  members  of  the  congregation 
in  Augusta  County,  Virginia,  in  which  they  pray  that  permission  might 
be  given  to  Mr.  Meyerhoffer  to  administer  the  Holy  Communion  to 
them. 

Resolved,  To  postpone  the  matter  until  the  report  of  the  fourth  com- 
mittee. 

No.  7.  A  letter  from  Frey's  and  Stehles'  congregations,  in  York 
County,  in  which  they  ask  that  the  Synod  may  make  provision  so 
that  their  congregations  might  again  be  supplied  with  a  pastor. 

Resolved,  That  a  committee  be  appointed  carefully  to  consider  the 
letters  from  Frey's  and  Stehlis'  congregations  in  York  County. 

Resolved,  That  the  committee  shall  consist  of  Pastors  Geisenhainer 
and  Mensch  and  Deacon  B.  Kurz  as  preachers,  and  Messrs.  Henzel 
and  Bentemann  as  delegates. 


SEVENTY  THIRD  CONVENTION,  1820.  551 

Also  a  report  of  a  Special  Meeting  which  was  held  in  Friedrichtown 
Mar  viand.  In  it  a  (special)  request  i3  made  for  permission  to  organize 
a  new  Synod  on  the  west  side  of  the  Susquehanna. 

Resolved,  That  the  matter  be  postponed  until  the  matter  of  the  Gen- 
eral Synod  will  come  up. 

The  second  committee  reports  the  following  concerning  the  commu- 
nications submitted  to  it : 

No.  8.  The  accounts  of  Messrs.  Schaefer  and  Maund,  in  Baltimore, 
concerning  the  printing  of  the  Liturgy  and  of  the  "  Plan-Entwurf," 
according  to  which  we  owe  them  $10.90.  But  it  is  well  to  notice  in 
this  connection  that  they  still  have  on  hand  976  copies  of  the  Liturgy 
for  sale  for  the  Synod,  which,  according  to  their  account,  are  valued  at 
$390.40. 

Resolved,  That  their  account  be  approved. 

No.  9.  A  letter  from  Rev.  Mr.  Jacob  Reily  (Reformed  preacher),  in 
which  he  states  that  he  has  sent  to  the  Lutheran  Synod  fifty  copies  of 
the  proceedings  of  the   Reverend  Reformed  Synod  of  last  year. 

No.  10.  A  letter  from  Pastor  Plitt,  in  which  he  excuses  his  absence 
and  asks  for  a  copy  of  the  Agenda  and  raises  the  question  :  Whether 
tiif  names  of  the  absent  members,  together  with  their  excuses,  should 
not  he  entered  upon  the  Protocol  ? 

Resolved,  That  his  excuse  be  accepted  and  a  copy  of  the  Agenda  be 
sent  to  him. 

No.  11.  A  letter  from  Pastor  Flohr,  of  Virginia,  in  which  he  gives 
an  excuse  for  his  absence,  and  sends  a  list  of  his  baptized,  etc. 

Resolved,  That  his  excuse  be  accepted. 

No.  12.  A  letter  from  the  Scherrer's  congregation,  near  Strasburg, 
which  states  that  it  dismissed  and  paid  its  pastor,  Mr.  Scriba,  nearly 
two  years  ago,  and  desires  and  requests  that  the  Synod  permit  Mr. 
Haal  to  accept  their  congregation. 

Resolved,  That  the  matter  be  postponed  until  the  report  of  the  sixth 
committee. 

13.  A  letter  from  the  Rev.  Dr.  Quittmann,  of  the  State  of  New 
York.    It  is  the  opinion  of  the  committee  that  the  letter  should  be  read. 

Resolved,  That  the  reading  of  the  same  be  postponed  until  the  matter 
of  the  General  Synod  comes  up. 

No.  14.  A  letter  from  Rev.  Mr.  Stanch,  in  which  he  reports  concern- 
ing the  proceedings  of  their  Synod,  especially  with  reference  to  the 
General  Synod. 

It  is  the  opinion  of  the  committee  that  this  letter  should  also  be  read. 
Ived,  That  the  reading  be  postponed. 

No.  15.  A  letter  from  Rev.  Mr.  Schober,  from  North  Carolina,  in 


552  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

which  he  reports  that  the  majority  of  the  members  of  their  Synod  have 
adopted  the  so-called  "  Plan-Entwurf,"  and  expresses  the  desire  that  the 
formation  of  the  General  Synod  might  be  accomplished. 

Resolved,  That  the  reading  of  his  letter  also  be  postponed  until  the 
matter  of  the  General  Synod  comes  up. 

In  this  session  the  three  following  resolutions  were  also  adopted  : 

First :  Resolved,  That  fifty  copies  of  the  proceedings  of  this  year's 
Synod  be  sent  to  the  Reverend  Reformed  Synod. 

Second,  that  a  committee  be  appointed  to  audit  the  accounts  of  the 
Treasurer  and  report  to  the  Synod.  Deacon  Probst  and  Delegates 
Heu  and  Kunkel  were  appointed  as  the  committee. 

Third  :  Resolved,  That  the  Synod  meet  to-morrow  morning  at  8 
o'clock. 

The  session  was  closed  with  a  hymn  and  prayer. 

This  evening  Rev.  Mr.  Wackerhagen,  Secretary  of  the  Reverend 
Synod  of  New  York,  preached  on  II  Cor.  3  :  4-11. 


THIRD  SESSION. 
Tuesday,  8  a.m. 


The  session  was  opened  Avith  singing  and  prayer. 

The  third  committee  reported  on  the  communications  submitted  to  it. 

No.  16.  A  second  letter  from  Rev.  Mr.  Stauch,  in  which  he  makes 
known  that  some  members  of  the  Ohio  Synod  are  unwilling  to  accept  the 
(so-called)  "Plan-Entwurf"  for  a  General  Synod. 

Resolved,  That  it  be  postponed  until  the  matter  of  the  General 
Synod  be  taken  up. 

No.  17.  A  letter  from  Mr.  Riemenschneider,  in  which  he  presents  an 
excuse  for  his  absence  and  asks  for  a  copy  of  the  Agenda  and  several 
copies  of  the  proceedings  of  last  year's  Synod. 

Resolved,  That  his  excuse  be  accepted  and  the  copies  asked  for  be 
sent  to  him. 

Also  an  excuse  from  Mr.  Flohr  on  account  of  his  absence  of  last  year 
and  this  year.     Resolved,  That  his  excuse  be  accepted. 

No.  18.  The  proceedings  of  the  Ohio  Synod  of  the  year  1819. 

Resolved,  That  for  want  of  time,  the  whole  of  the  proceedings  cannot 
be  read. 

No.  19.  A  printed  paper,  in  which  certain  members  of  the  Ohio 


SEVENTY-THIRD  CONVENTION,  1820.  553 

Synod  express  their  doubts  .and  give  their  reasons  why  they  are  unwill- 
ing to  accept  the  "  Plan-Entwurf." 

Jv  solved  That  this  communication  cannot  be  taken  into  considera- 
tion, because  it  was  sent  in  without  any  signatures. 

No.  20.  Several  letters  from  the  congregations  in  Somerset  County, 
in  which  they  express  their  satisfaction  with  Mr.  Kriigler  and  also  the 
desire  to  retain  him  as  their  preacher. 

Resolved,  That  the  Synod  is  pleased  to  hear  this  report. 

No.  21.  A  petition  from  Berlin  and  Warrington  congregations,  ask- 
ing for  the  services  of  Mr.  Speck,  student  of  theology,  as  their  preacher. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Speck  shall  become  their  preacher,  provided  he 
pass  the  examination. 

No.  22.  A  report  concerning  the  reasons  for  the  dissatisfaction  exist- 
ing between  the  Lutherans  and  Reformed  in  and  about  Greencastle. 
The  document  is  signed  by  four  congregations,  in  which  they  complain 
of  the  unbecoming  conduct  of  some  of  the  Reformed,  and  earnestly 
request  the  Synod  to  decide  whether  in  certain  points  concerning 
church  discipline  and  the  teachings  of  the  New  Testament,  their  pastor, 
Mr.  Rothrauf,  has  done  right  or  wrong,  in  accordance  with  or  contrary 
to  them.  They  ask  for  a  written  answer.  It  is  the  opinion  of  the  com- 
mittee that  the  letter  should  be  read  before  the  whole  Synod. 

Resolved,  That  the  whole  matter  be  put  into  the  hands  of  a  committee. 

Resolved,  That  the  committee  shall  consist  of  three  pastors  and  two 
delegates. 

Resolved,  That  Drs  Kurz  and  Lehman  and  Pastor  Schafer  (as 
preachers)  and  Messrs.  Stichter  and  Kunkel  as  delegates  shall  consti- 
tute this  committee. 

During  this  session  the  Rev.  Mr.  Hendel,  delegate  from  the  Reverend 
Reformed  Synod,  took  his  seat  as  an  advisory  member. 

After  the  postponed  letters  of  Messrs.  Stauch,  Quittman  and  Schober, 
all  of  Avhich  have  reference  to  the  General  Synod,  had  been  read,  and 
much  had  been  said  for  and  against  the  General  Synod,  the  following 
resolutions  were  finally  adopted  : 

(1st.)  Resolved,  That  it  is  the  opinion  of  this  Synod  that  a  General 
Synod  should  be  organized  in  accordance  with  the  spirit  of  the  "Plan- 
Entwurf,"  but  upon  this  additional  provision  that  the  Constitution  pro- 
posed in  the  11th  section  of  the  same,  be  submitted  to  the  different 
Synods  for  adoption,  amendment  or  entire  rejection. 

(2nd.)  Resolved,  That  delegates  be  elected  who,  together  with  the 
delegates  of  the  other  Synods  that  desire  a  General  Synod,  shall  formu- 
late a  ( lonstitution. 

(3rd.)  Resolved,  That  when  three-fourths  of  the  existing  Synods  (in- 


554  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

eluding  this  Synod)  accept  the  Constitution,  it  shall  be  considered  as 
binding. 

As  to  the  request  of  certain  preachers  to  organize  a  Synod  on  the 
west  side  of  the  Susquehanna,  it  was  now  resolved  that  this  Synod  will 
make  no  objection  whatever  if  a  new  Synod  be  organized  on  the  west 
side  of  the  Susquehanna.1     [Maryland  and  West  Virginia]. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 


FOURTH  SESSION. 
Tuesday,  3  pm. 


The  session  was  opened  with  singing  and  prayer. 

The  committee  appointed  to  audit  the  accounts  of  the  Treasurer  re- 
ported as  follows  : 

That  they  have  found  the  same  correct,  and  that,  including  $8  of 
unpassable  money,  a  balance  of  $448.28  is  found  in  the  Treasury  to  the 
credit  of  the  Synod.     Done  (at  Lancaster)  May  30,  1820. 

The  fourth  committee  reported  as  follows  concerning  the  communi- 
cations submitted  to  it : 

No.  23.  A  letter  from  Rev.  Mr.  Vonhof,  in  which  he  excuses  his  ab- 
sence because  of  an  accident  which  recently  befell  him,  and  transmits  a 
list  of  his  baptized,  etc. 

Resolved,  That  his  excuse  be  accepted. 

No.  24.  A  letter  from  the  congregations  in  McConnelsville,  asking 
that  the  Synod  might  confirm  Mr.  Schulze  as  their  preacher. 

Resolved,  That  the  matter  be  given  into  the  hands  of  a  committee, 
and  that  the  same  shall  consist  of  the  preachers,  Messrs.  Knoske, 
Mensch  and  Roller,  and  of  the  delegates,  Trostel,  Galentin  and  Endre?s. 

No.  25.  A  letter  from  the  Somerset  and  neighboring  congregations, 
in  which  they  complain  that  Mr.  Kriigler,  and  a  company  of  members 
of  the  congregations  in  Somerset  and  Stoystown,  had  made  propositions 
in  the  above-named  congregations  for  the  organization  of  a  new  con- 
gregation, in  consequence  of  which  the  said  congregations  are  afraid 
that  they  will  suffer  great  damage,  with  the  additional  request  that  the 
Synod  might  disapprove  of  the  said  project,  and,  if  possible,  prevent  it. 

Resolved,  That  the  said  congregations  be  earnestly  advised  by  the 
Synod  not  to  separate  themselves  from  one  another. 

Corrected  in  Protocol  of  1821.     See  page  572. 


SEVENTY-THIRD  CONVENTION,  1820.  555 

N<>  20.  An  extensive  paper  from  Mr.  Riemenschneider  which,  among 
many  other  matters,  contains  a  request  that  the  Synod  should  forbid 
Mr.  Meierhofer  to  preach  and  to  administer  the  Holy  Communion  in 
the  so-called  Salem's  Church. 

Resolved,  That  permission  be  given  Mr.  Meierhofer  to  administer 
the  Holy  Communion  in  said  congregation.  (See  No.  6,  first  com- 
mittee.) 

No.  27.  A  recommendation  from  the  congregation  in  Jungmanstown 
for  their  preacher,  Mr.  Heim,  and  an  excuse  for  not  sending  a  delegate 
or  a  contribution  to  the  Synodical  treasury  this  year. 

Resolved,  That  the  Synod  heartily  rejoices  over  the  first  part.  The 
second  point,  however,  occasioned  a  very  sharp  and  extensive  discussion. 
Finally  it  was  resolved  that  no  further  action  be  taken  in  the  matter 
of  Mr.  Heim,  of  Jungmanstown,  concerning  the  neglect  to  contribute 
to  the  Synodical  treasury. 

No.  28.  A  letter  from  several  congregations  in  Schuylkill  County, 
in  which  they  express  their  great  satisfaction  with  their  present  pastor, 
Mr.  Miinnieh  ;  but  also  make  a  bitter  complaint  against  a  man  by  the 
name  of  Johann  Heinrich  Becky,  who  professes  to  be  a  minister,  and 
is  making  efforts  to  gather  a  congregation,  causing  much  disturbance 
in  the  congregations.  They  ask  the  Synod  for  assistance  in  checking 
this  trouble  as  much  as  possible. 

R(  solved,  That  it  be  announced  through  our  Protocol  that  the  men, 
Mr.  Johann  Heinrich  Becky  and  his  brother,  Peter  Becky,  are  not 
members  of  our  Synod,  and  that  the  Synod  does  not  consider  them  fit 
to  exercise  the  office  of  the  Holy  Ministry. 

No.  29.  A  letter  from  the  congregations  of  Mr.  Hemping,  in  which 
they  recommend  their  preacher  very  highly,  and  excuse  themselves  for 
not  having  sent  a  delegate  this  year. 

Resolved,  That  their  excuse  be  accepted. 

No.  30.  A  letter  from  the  congregation  in  Winchester,  in  which  they 
give  their  preacher,  Mr.  Reck,  a  favorable  testimonial,  and  excuse  them. 
selves  for  not  having  sent  a  delegate. 

tlved,  That  their  excuse  be  accepted. 

No,  31.  A  letter  from  the  congregations  of  Mr.  "Wilhelm  Heim,  in 
Mifflin  County,  in  which  they  excuse  themselves  for  not  having  sent  a 
delegate  this  year,  and  make  known  that  they  have  sent  $7.G7  into  the 
Synodical  treasury. 

Resolved,  That  the  Synod  accept  their  excuse,  and  expresses  its 
pleasure  because  of  their  contribution  to  the  treasury 

The  fifth  committee  reports  as  follows  concerning  the  documents  sub- 
mitted to  it : 


556  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

No.  32.  A  call  from  Nescopeck  and  neighboring  congregations  in 
Centre  County  for  a  preacher. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Rebenack  be  permitted  to  accept  the  call. 

No.  33.  Several  English  and  German  letters  from  Nelson  and  Jeffer- 
son County,  in  the  State  of  Kentucky,  in  which  application  is  made  for 
the  loan  of  a  sum  of  money  for  the  purchase  of  a  plantation  for  a 
preacher's  residence,  and  for  a  collection  in  our  congregations  to  cover 
the  expenses  for  building  a  new  church  in  the  same  region. 

Resolved,  That  this  Synod  is  disposed  to  send  a  traveling  preacher 
into  this  region  at  its  own  expense. 

No.  34.  A  call  from  Macungie  and  the  congregations  belonging 
thereto,  for  Mr.  Germann. 

Resolved,  That  the  Synod  is  fully  satisfied  if  Mr.  Germann  accepts 
the  said  call. 

No.  35.  A  letter  from  the  congregation  in  Martinsburg,  Virginia,  in 
which  the  congregation  cordially  thanks  the  Synod  that  it  sent  them 
Mr.  Kraut  as  its  pastor,  and  expresses  its  entire  satisfaction  with  him. 

Resolved,  That  the  Synod  heartily  rejoices  over  the  favorable  recep- 
tion of  Mr.  Kraut  by  those  congregations. 

No.  36.  A  letter  from  the  congregations  in  Hummelstown  and  Maxe 
Church,  in  which  the  congregations  thank  the  Synod  that  it  sent  them 
Mr.  Demme  as  their  pastor,  and  signify  their  entire  satisfaction  with 
him. 

Resolved,  That  the  Synod  likewise  rejoices  over  the  favorable  recep- 
tion of  Mr.  Demme  in  those  congregations. 

The  election  of  delegates  to  the  General  Synod  was  now  held.  Six 
preachers  and  three  delegates  from  congregations  were  elected. 

Resolved,  That  the  Synod  now  adjourn,  to  meet  again  to-morrow  at 
8  o'clock. 

The  session  was  closed  with  singing  and  prayer. 

This  evening  Mr.  Samuel  Schmucker,  student  of  theology,  preached 
in  the  English  language  on  Jer.  9  :  23,  24. 


FIFTH  SESSION. 

Wednesday,  8  a.m. 

The  session  was  opened  with  singing  and  prayer. 

The  election  of  delegates  to  the  General  Synod  was  now  completed. 
The  following  preachers  and  delegates  (from  the  congregations)  were 
elected  by  a  majority  of  votes  : 


SEVENTY-THIRD  CONVENTION,  1S20.  557 

Preachers.  Delegates. 

Dr.  Kurtz,  Mr.  Kunkel, 

"    Lochmann,  "    Stichter, 

"    EudresB,  "     Heuzel. 

Pastor  Geisenhainer,  Sr., 
,;       Schinucker, 
"       Muhlenberg. 

(Action  was  also  taken  with  regard  to  the  time  of  meeting  ) 

Resolved,  That  the  General  Synod  shall  be  held  on  the  fourth  Sunday 
of  October  next,  at  Hagerstown,  Maryland. 

Resolved,  That  if  any  of  the  elected  delegates  cannot  be  present,  he 
shall  have  the  right  to  appoint  and  send  some  one  else. 

The  committee  which  was  appointed  to  investigate  the  condition  of 
the  congregations  at  Greencastle  and  the  neighboring  congregations 
reported,  that  it  is  the  desire  of  those  congregations  that  the  Ministerium 
should  give  a  written  decision  and  answer  concerning  the  following 
cptestions :  "  "Whether  it  accords  with  the  teaching  of  the  New  Testa- 
ment, with  church  discipline,  and  with  Christian  love,  that  immoral 
men  and  such  as  live  in  open  sin  be  called  to  account  and  admonished 
to  better  their  lives  before  the  Holy  Sacraments  be  administered  to  them? 
And  whether  their  pastor,  the  Rev.  Mr.  Rothrauf,  does  wrong  in  that 
he  insists  upon  this  in  his  congregation?"  The  committee  declares  that 
it  is  the  duty  of  the  Evangelical  pastor  to  admonish  the  wicked  of  every 
sort  to  repent  and  better  their  lives,  before  he  administer  to  them  the 
Holy  Sacraments,  and  that  the  Rev.  Mr.  Rothrauf  is  certainly  right 
when  he  dues  this  in  his  congregation.  This  declaration,  however,  is 
made  without  regard  to  the  troubles  that  exist  in  the  above-mentioned 
congregations. 

Resolved,  That  the  report  of  the  committee  be  accepted. 

jR<  voiced,  That  the  reverend  Reformed  Synod  be  requested  to  appoint 
a  committee,  which,  in  connection  with  a  committee  appointed  by  this 
Synod,  shall  carefully  investigate  the  controversy  between  Mr.  Rothrauf 
ami  his  opponent. 

II-  solved,  That  the  petition  of  the  congregation  at  McConnelsville  be 
granted,  and  permission  be  given  Mr.  Schulze  to  accept  the  congregation. 

The  committee  which  was  appointed  to  consider  the  circumstances  of 
the  Stehle's  and  Frey's  congregations,  in  York  County,  report  as  follows : 
"  We  have  the  honor  to  report  to  the  Synod  that  we  have  read  the 
letters  of  the  said  congregations  and  carefully  considered  their  contents. 
"We  move  that  the  reverend  Synod  advise  Mr.  Stecher  to  6erve  said 
congregations,  provided  they  furnish  him  regular  support." 


55S  DOCUMENTARY   HISTORY. 

Resolved,  That  the  report  of  the  committee  be  accepted. 

The  sixth  committee  finally  reported  concerning  the  documents  sub- 
mitted to  it,  as  follows : 

No.  37.  A  call  from  several  congregations  in  Franklin  County  for 
Mr.  Haal.  The  congregations  desire  that  the  Synod  might  confirm  him 
as  their  pastor. 

Resolved,  That  Synod  give  permission  to  Mr.  Haal  to  accept  the  con- 
gregations of  Strasburg  and  Schener's  in  Franklin  County. 

No.  38.  A  letter  from  the  congregations  of  Mr.  Gottlieb  Jager,  in 
which  they  give  him  a  favorable  testimonial  with  reference  to  his  doc- 
trine and  life,  and  ask  for  his  promotion  in  office. 

Resolved,  To  refer  the  matter  to  the  Ministerial  Meeting. 

No.  39.  A  call  from  the  congregations  of  Briar  Creek,  Mifflinsburg, 
Catawissa  and  Keller's  school-house,  for  Mr.  Kessler. 

Resolved,  That  permission  be  given  Mr.  Kessler  to  accept  said  con- 
gregations. 

No.  40.  A  favorable  testimonial  for  Mr.  (Heinrich)  Kurz,  from  the 
congregations  of  Plainfield,  etc.  They  also  desire  his  promotion  in 
office. 

Resolved,  That  this  matter  (likewise)  be  referred  to  the  Ministerial 
Meeting. 

No.  41.  A  letter  from  several  congregations  which  before  now  were 
served  by  the  deceased  Walter,  in  which  they  ask  for  a  young  man  by 
the  name  of  Jacob  Schmidt,  a  student  of  theology,  to  serve  their  con- 
gregations as  a  catechist  under  the  supervision  of  Mr.  Schindel. 

Resolved,  That  a  committee  be  appointed  to  carefully  investigate  the 
condition  of  the  congregations  of  the  deceased  Walter,  and  the  congre- 
gations in  that  neighborhood,  and  to  report  to  the  Synod. 

Resolved,  That  the  committee  shall  consist  of  the  preachers,  Dr.  En- 
dress,  Geisenhainer  and  Rothrauf,  and  of  the  delegates  Brotzmann  and 
Bieber. 

No.  42.  A  favorable  testimonial  for  Mr.  Heyer,  from  his  congrega- 
tions in  Cumberland,  Allegheny  County,  Maryland. 

Resolved,  That  the  Synod  heartily  rejoices  at  the  favorable  testimonial 
(for  Mr.  Heyer). 

Here  it  was  also  resolved,  that  Dr.  Endress  shall  prepare  for  the 
Synod  the  books  ordered  at  Baltimore. 

Resolved,  That  Messrs.  D.  F.  Schiiffer  and  Geisenhainer,  Sr.,  be  our 
delegates  to  the  next  meeting  of  the  Synod  of  New  York,  because  they 
have  offered  to  go  at  their  own  expense. 

Resolved,  That  here  the  lists  of  baptized,  etc.,  be  handed  in. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 


SEVENTY-THIRD  CONVENTION,  1820.  559 

SIXTH  SESSION. 
Wednesday,  3  r.M. 

The  session  was  opened  with  singing  and  prayer. 

After  the  report  of  the  committee  concerning  No.  41,  it  was 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Schindel  he  permitted  to  accept  Selinsgrove  and 
Ran  en's  church. 

Resolved,  That  the  letter  concerning  Mr.  Schmidt  be  referred  to  the 
Ministerium. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Heim  be  permitted  to  accept  the  Langstown 
congregation. 

The  President  now  made  a  verbal  report  to  the  Synod  of  the  com- 
mittee appointed  to  prepare  and  have  printed,  in  connection  with  a 
committee  of  the  Reverend  Reformed  Synod,  a  plan  for  a  common  semi- 
nary ;  the  committee  met  last  September  at  Lancaster. 

From  his  report  it  appeared  that  the  members  of  our  committee  had 
not  all  attended ;  that  the  joint  committee  actually  did  prepare  a 
plan  ; 1  that  the  provision  for  the  printing  of  the  same  had  been  left 
to  Doctor  Endress  and  Pastor  Hofmeier,  but  that  the  printing  of  the 
same  had  been  neglected  altogether,  which  the  Synod  greatly  lamented. 

Dr.  Endress  arose  and  made  a  long  speech  defending  himselt.  He 
presented  to  the  Synod  several  local  matters  and  certain  misunder- 
standings, which  had  caused  the  neglect  of  the  printing  of  the  plan  on 
his  part. 

On  the  other  hand  it  was  maintained  that  the  reasons  given  by  him 
were  not  sufficient  entirely  to  excuse  him. 

Candidate  Schnee  arose  and  gave  the  Synod  a  report  of  an  institu- 
tion in  Middletown,  Pennsylvania,  known  under  the  name  of  the 
"Freyische  Waisenhaus."  He  held  out  to  the  Synod  the  pleasing 
prospect  that  under  the  guidance  of  God,  the  same  might  be  built  up 
in  the  future,  perhaps,  as  a  Theological  Seminary  for  the  Lutheran 
Church  in  this  country. 

Dr.  Lochman  arose  and  made  an  earnest  appeal  to  the  Synod  for  the 
founding  of  a  Theological  Seminary,  and  for  the  support  of  the  College 
at  Lancaster. 

Resolved,  That  a  committee  be  appointed  which  shall  engage  with  the 
Trustees  of  the  Frey  Institution,  in  a  careful  examination  and  inquiry 
concerning  the  Frey  Institution  at  Middletown,  between  this  and  the 
next  Synod. 

Resolved,  That  the  committee  shall  be  composed  of  Doctor  Endress 
Doctor  Lochman,  Pastors  Schmucker,  Muhlenberg  and  Ernst. 

[  '  Plan  in  full  in  handwriting  of  S.  S.  Schmucker  in  Archives]. 


560  DOCUMENTAEY  HISTOBY. 

Resolved,  That  these  gentlemen  shall  themselves  appoint  a  time  for 
meeting. 

Resolved,  That  the  money  be  gathered  into  the  Synodical  Treasury, 
and  after  this  had  been  done,  it  was  found  that  $564.23  had  been  taken 
in. 

Resolved,  That  the  names  of  the  preachers  shall  be  printed  in  the 
Minutes  and  also  the  respective  sums  which  they  either  themselves  or 
through  their  delegates  have  contributed  to  the  Synodical  Treasury. 

(On  motion)  it  was  now 

Resolved,  That  the  Synod  request  the  Ministerium  to  insist  more 
strictly  upon  the  observance  of  its  regulations. 

The  session  was  closed  with  singing  and  prayer. 

This  evening  Doctor  Lochman  preached  on  Jude  3. 


SEVENTH  SESSION. 
Thursday,  6  a.m. 

The  session  was  opened  with  singing  and  prayer. 

Resolved,  That  a  committee  be  appointed  to  attend  the  reverend 
Reformed  Synod  which  soon  meets  in  Hagerstown. 

Resolved,  That  the  preachers,  D.  F.  Schaffer  and  B.  Kurz,  shall  con- 
stitute the  committee. 

Resolved,  That  Messrs.  D.  F.  Schaffer  and  Moller  shall  also  be  a 
committee,  in  connection  with  a  committee  of  the  Reformed  Synod 
carefully  to  investigate  the  matter  of  Mr.  Rothrauf  and  his  opponent, 
on  the  28th  of  next  September  at  Hagerstown,  and  to  report  to  our 
Synod  next  year. 

Resolved,  That  the  Secretary  shall  have  five  hundred  copies  of  the 
proceedings  of  this  year's  Synod  printed,  and  that  the  expenses  of  the 
same  shall  be  paid  out  of  the  Synodical  Treasury. 

Resolved,  That  each  of  our  preachers'  widows  shall  receive  fifteen 
dollars  this  year. 

The  election  for  time  and  place  of  the  next  Synodical  Meeting  was 
held.  Chambersburg  was  chosen  as  the  place  and  Trinity  Sunday  as 
the  time. 

After  the  business  had  been  finished,  a  hymn  was  sung.  Thereupon 
the  whole  Synod  bowed  in  the  presence  of  our  Lord  and  Master.  The 
President  offered  an  earnest  prayer,  and  dismissed  the  meeting  with 
wishes  for  every  blessing. 

This  time,  the  preachers,  in  addition  to  the  number  of  their  baptized, 
confirmed,  communicants,  buried  and  schools,  gave  in  the  names  and 


SEVENTY-THIRD  CONVENTION,  1820.  5G1 

number  of  their  congregations.  But  since  the  names  of  their  congre- 
gations are  to  be  entered  in  a  special  book  provided  by  the  Synod,  only 
the  number  of  their  congregations  follows  here  in  connection  with  those 
items. 

N.  B. — The  preachers  who  have  nothing   after  their  names  have 
neglected  to  send  in  their  report. 

Con-  Com- 

grega-    Bap-    Con-  muni-  De- 

tions.    tizer}.  firmed,  cants,  ceased.  Schools. 

1.  Dr.Helmuth \l    m       41  753  123       5 

2.  •■    bcharer ) 

3.  «    Kurtz 1     103      23  280  76       1 

4.  Pastor  Carpenter —       —       —  —  —  — 

5.  ■       Henkel —       —      —  —  —  — 

6.  «       Jager 4     139       89  578  35  12 

7.  Dr.  Lochman 3     187       85  481  52       3 

8.  Pastor  Schmucker 3     173     100  483  53       5 

9.  Dr.  Endress 1     151       70  363  35       1 

10.  Pastor  Rothrauf 4       66       19  347  8       1 

11.  "       Grob ___  _  __ 

12.  "      Graber 4      66      61  262  19       2 

13.  "      Muhlenberg 4     170     101  610  23      4 

14.  -       Geisenhainer,Sr.,andj    g       57       25  m                  g 

(his)  Son  .    .    .    .   j 

15.  "      H.  Geisenhainer  ...    2       82        6  198  19       1 

16.  «      Herbst,  Sr 4     180      83  353  25      2 

17.  "      Mdller 4    196      93  408  29      1 

18.  "       Roller 5     167       94  443  29       3 

19.  "      Knoske 7     203     126  1103  58       6 

20.  "      Mensch 5     122      20  293  34  — 

21.  "       Haas —      —      —  —  —  — 

22        "       D.  F.  Schafer  ....    1     198       50  491  27       1 

23.  "       Melzheiraer —      —      —  —  —  — 

24.  "      Hecht 2     105      56  299  14       1 

25.  "       Miller 3     119       93  696  26       3 

26.  "       Ulrich 6     125     106  1110  38       6 

27.  "      Vanhoff —      56      —  46  6  — 

28.  "       Ernst 5     136       77  671  33      4 

29.  "       Ilgen —     122       16  487  12  — 

30.  "       Rebenack 3       51       14  130  17       4 

31.  "      Flohr —      76      —  142  8      2 

36 


562  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Deacons. 

Con-  Com- 

grega-    Bap-  Con-  muni-  De- 

tions.   tized.  firmed,  cants,  ceased.  Schools. 

32.  Mr.  Rehmann 3       45  20  165  4  3 

33.  "    Batis .    5     165  98  586  27  6 

34.  "     Engel 7      82  95  476  20  7 

35.  "     Meendsen 6     185  69  780  24  6 

36.  "     Heim,  Sr 7     217  72  435  40  9 

37.  "     Mlinnich 6     152  20  551  32  7 

38.  "     Hemping 9     245  65  799  25  — 

39.  "     Schindel 8     280  183  1685  44  8 

40.  "     Herbst,  Jr 5       66  44  414  10  4 

41.  "     Reck 6     106  36  560  7  1 

42.  "    Filbert 6     112  75  562  20  3 

43.  «     Probst 4     234  72  847  19  4 

44.  "     Dorinjc  and    .... 


8  148  97  1202  49 

45.  '•  Wartmann 

46.  "  Strein 5  130  76  293  23  4 

47.  "  Rupert —  —  —  —  —  — 

48.  "  Scriba .3  23  13  45  11  — 

49.  «  Meyerhofer 1  185  —  295  12  2 

50.  "  Keller 4  142  74  549  24  3 

51.  "  B.  Kurz 5(4)  219  174  956  29  3 

52.  «  Heim,  Jr 7  222  88  566  15  8 

53.  "  Osterloh 5  86  32  136  4  1 

54.  u  Riemenschneider  ....  —  —  —  —  —  — 

55.  "  Becker —  —  —  —  —  — 

56.  "  Kessler,  Sr 4  54  34  134  6  — 

57.  "  Stock —  —  —  —  —  — 

Candidates. 

58.  Mr.  Sclmee — '  —  —  —  —  — 

59.  "  Krusy(Kruse) 1  8  12  47  —  — 

60.  "  Weiand -..—  —  —  —  —  — 

61.  "  Rebas 8  152  66  317  20  5 

62.  "  Heyer    ........    8  81  87  530  8  2 

63.  "  Stecher —  —  —  —  —  — 

64.  "  Kohler ,  .    4  60  37  86  19  — 

65.  "  Trumbauer 2  55  —  59  2  — 

66.  «  Haal 5  133  62  453  8  2 

67.  "  Kessler,  Jr 6  227  93  577  25  — 

68.  "  Jager 1  8  —  35  —  — 


SEVENTY  THIRD  CONVENTION,  1820. 


563 


69. 
70. 

71. 
72. 
to. 
74. 
75. 
76. 
77. 


79 
80 
81 
82 
83 
84 


Mr. 


Con- 

Com- 

grega 

-    Bap- 

Con- 

muni- 

De- 

tions 

tized. 

firmed 

cants. 

ceased. 

Schools 

,     4 

74 

— 

320 

2 

3 

Geisenhainer, 

under  his 

) 

father's  name.  .    .    . 

i 

,     fi 

129 

47 

259 

8 

5 

.Miller.  .    .    . 

3 

165 

16 

716 

28 

5 

Walz  .... 

— 

— 

— 

— 

— 

fi 

70 

38 

525 

9 

7 

9, 

106 

52 

261 

15 

4 

.    8 

28 

21 

128 

7 

— . 

Wachter,  was 

traveling 

}- 

fi 

174 

165 

624 

10 

3 

4 

101 

16 

335 

23 

3 

4 

53 

62 

145 

— 

— 

Gottlieb  Jiiger 

.    4 

46 

10 

— 

10 

3 

4 

— 

— 

— 

16 

4 

fi 

103 

32 

90 

12 

2 



71 

35 

112 

11 



[Gottlieb  Jiiger  and  H.  Knrz  stand  last  in  the  printed  minutes  as 
catechists.] 

Here  follow  the  names  of  the  preachers  who  in  their  own  person  or 
through  their  delegates  paid  money  into  the  Synodical  Treasury  : 


Dr.  Kurz  .  .  . 
Pastor  Jiiger  .  . 
Mr.  Sehmucker 
Dr.  Lochmana  . 
Pastor  Wilhelm 
hainer  .  .  . 
Dr.  Endress  .  . 
Pastor  Rothrauf 
Mr.  Muhlenberg 

"    Graber   .    . 

"    Herbst,  Sr. 

"     M.'iller    .    . 

••     Roller     .    . 

"     Knoske  .    . 

•'     TIecht     .    . 

"     Mciisch  .    . 

"     D.  F.  Sclmfer 


Ge 


lsen- 


810.00  Mr.  Becker 10.00 

14  00  "  Probst 12.00 

45.12  "  B.  Kurz 5.00 

24.00  "  Strein 9.22 

"  Scriba 2.00 

6.00  "  Keller 28.00 

20.00  "  Kessler,  Sr 18.12 

5.00  "  Krusy 4.00 

10.00  "  Meyerhofer    ....  5.00 

12.25  "  Rebas 8.75 

5.00  "  Hcyer 5.00 

24.34  "  Trumbauer    ....  5.25 

4.00  "  Kessler,  Jr 7.00 

5.00  "  Stein 5.00 

8.00  "  Miller 5.00 

4.00  "  Haal 8.00 

5.00  "  Schmick 2.00 


564 


DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY 


Mr.  Miller 7.00        Mi 

"  Ulrick 8  00 

"  Rebenack 3.00 

"  Rehmann 12.37  i         " 

"  Batis 21.07 

"  Engel 4.00 

"  Meendsen 10  98 

"  Heim,  Sr 6.00 

"  Reck 5.00  " 

«  Schindel 8.00 

"  Hemping 7.50 

"  Ugen 19.31 

"  Herbst,  Jr 15.00 

"  Heim,  Jr 8.00 

The  whole  sum  amounted  to  $564.23. 


16.48 


Schulze 0.63 

H.  Graber     ....  6.00 

Demme 8.20 

Kraut 5.00 

Kriigler 15.76 

Doring  and 

Wartman 

Gottlieb  Jiiger   ...  3.00 

Kohler 5.00 

H[einrich]  Kurz  .    .  7.29 

Germaun 8.00 

Ernst 12.00 

H.  Geisenhainer    .    .  5.00 


The  names  of  the  preachers  who  paid  nothing  into  the  Synodical 


Treasury  this  year  : 

Dr.  Helmuth,  Sr. 

"    Schafer. 
Pastor  Carpenter. 
"       Henkel. 
"       Grob. 

"       H.  Geisenhainer. 
"       Haas. 
"       Melzheimer. 
"       Vonhof. 
Mr.  Riemen Schneider. 
"     Sackmann. 
"    Munich. 
"    Stock. 


Mr.  Filbert. 

"  Rupert. 

"  Osterloh. 

"  Schnee. 

"  Weiand. 

"  Stecher. 

"  Jager  (Philadelphia). 

"  Geisenhainer,  Jr. 

"  Walz. 

"  Wachter. 

"  H.  A.  Kurz. 

"  Flohr. 


MINISTERIAL  MEETING. 


FIRST  SESSION. 
Thursday,  9  a.m. 

The  session  was  opened  with  singing  and  prayer. 
The  following  applicants  were  present  and  requested  to  be  received  : 
Samuel  Schmucker,  Johannes  Speck,  Carl  Strein  and  Jacob  Albert. 
Two  committees  were  appointed  to  examine  the  applicants. 


BEVENTY-THIBD  CONVENTION,  1820.  505 

The  first  committee  was  composed  of  Doctor  Lochinann  and  Doctor 
Endress.     Mr.  Samuel  Schmucker  was  assigned  to  them. 

The  second  committee  was  composed  of  Doctor  Kurz  and  Pastors 
Geisenhaiuer,  Muhlenberg  and  Ernst.  Messrs.  Speck,  Strcin  and 
Albert  were  assigned  to  them. 

The  Ministerium  now  took  up  the  following  matters  referred  to  it : 

1.  The  request  of  Mr.  Stock  for  assistance. 
Resolved,  Tbat  no  notice  shall  be  taken  of  his  request. 

2.  The  request  of  Mr.  Walz  for  a  new  license. 
Resolved,  That  a  new  license  shall  be  given  to  him. 

A  committee  was  appointed  to  examine  the  two  catechists,  Jiiger  and 
Kurz. 

Messrs.  Knoske,  Rothrauf,  Ulrich  and  Miller  were  the  committee. 

A  very  important  question  was  now  put,  namely  : 

Whether  it  is  right  and  wmether  it  can  be  allowed,  that  candidates 
prepare  young  persons  for  the  ministry,  except  in  the  necessary  pre- 
liminary knowledge  ?  The  question  was  unanimously  answered,  "  No." 

Resolved,  That  it  is  highly  necessary  to  send  traveling  preachers  to 
Kentucky  and  Tennessee  this  year. 

Resolved,  That  Messrs.  Heyer  and  Wachter  shall  be  the  traveling 
preachers  for  that  region. 

Resolved,  That  $12  shall  be  given  Mr.  Heyer,  out  of  the  Synodical 
Treasury,  in  order  to  purchase  1000  copies  of  little  books  (known  as 
"  Tracts  "),  to  take  the  same  along  on  his  missionary  travels.  He  shall 
buy  500  of  them  in  the  German  and  500  in  the  English  language. 

Resolved,  That  if  the  circumstances  of  Mr.  Reck  permit  it,  he  also 
shall  be  a  traveling  preacher  this  year. 

Resolved,  That  Dr.  Lochmann,  Pastors  Schmucker  and  Geisenhainer^ 
Sr.,  shall  constitute  a  committee  to  prepare  the  testimonials  (creditiv) 
and  instructions  for  the  traveling  preachers  in  the  English  and  German 
languages. 

Resolved,  That  the  traveling  preachers  shall  travel  this  year,  at  least 
three  months,  and  that  the  Synod  is  willing  to  allow  them  $40  per  month. 

Resolved,  That  the  following  deacons  be  advanced  to  the  grade  of 
pastors  at  this  meeting,  and  be  publicly  declared  as  pastors  : 


1. 

Mr. 

Batis. 

2. 

(< 

Engel. 

3. 

«< 

Meendsen. 

4. 

u 

Becker. 

5. 

u 

Hem  ping. 

6. 

a 

Schindel. 

7. 

u 

Herbst,  Jr. 

8. 

Mr. 

Reck. 

9. 

■  < 

Filbert, 

10. 

a 

Probst. 

11. 

<< 

Doring. 

12. 

<< 

Wartmann 

13. 

<< 

Strein. 

566  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Resolved,  That  the  following  candidates  be  ordained  deacons : 

1.  Mr.  Krusy,  4.  Mr.  Stecher, 

2.  "    Rebas,  5.     "    Geisenhainer,  Jr., 

3.  "    Heyer,  6.     "    Miller,  Jr. 

It  had  always  been  customary  to  hold  an  examination  before  ordina- 
tion, but  because  of  a  lack  of  time,  and  other  urgent  business,  it  was 
omitted  at  this  time. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 


SECOND  SESSION. 
Thursday,  3  p.m. 

The  session  was  opened  with  singing  and  prayer. 

At  the  request  of  the  congregation  at  Zion's  church,  in  Berks  County, 
to  have  Mr.  Miinnich  as  preacher,  it  was  now 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Miinnich  be  permitted  to  serve  the  same. 

The  committee  which  had  been  appointed  to  examine  Mr.  Samuel 
Schmucker,  reported  that  they  were  entirely  satisfied  with  his  examina- 
tion, and  that  they  have  no  hesitation  in  proposing  him  as  a  candidate. 

Resolved,  That  a  candidate's  license  shall  be  given  to  Mr.  Samuel 
Schmucker. 

The  committee  appointed  to  examine  the  two  catechists,  Jager  and 
Kurtz,  reported  that  they  had  found  the  same  competent  to  fill  the  office 
of  candidate. 

Resolved,  That  a  candidate's  license  shall  be  given  to  both  catechists 
Jager  and  Kurtz. 

The  committee  appointed  to  examine  Messrs.  Speck,  Strein  and 
Albert,  reported  that  they  found  them  satisfactory,  and  that  a  candi- 
date's license  could  be  given  to  them  without  hesitation. 

Resolved,  That  candidates'  licenses  be  given  to  them,  as  soon  as  they 
receive  congregations. 

The  preachers  to  whom  the  sermons  and  diaries  of  the  candidates  had 
been  submitted  to  examine  and  pass  judgment  on  the  same,  reported 
that: 

1.  Mr.  "Weiand's  diary  was  good,  but  his  Themata  were  not  correct. 

2.  Stein's  diary  and  sermons  were  good. 

3.  Rebas'  and  Heyer's  sermons,  very  good. 

4.  Stecher's  sermon  and  diary,  good. 
5  Catechist  Jager's  diary,  good. 

6.  Kohler's  sermon,  good,  but  his  diary  was  kept  indifferently. 


SEVENTY-THIRD  CONVENTION,  1820.  567 

7.  Candidate  Jiiger's  sermon,  good. 

8.  Haal's  sermon  and  diary,  good. 

9.  Kessler's  sermon  and  diary,  good. 

10.  Schmick's  sermon  and  diary,  pretty  good. 

11.  Geisenhainer's  sermon,  good,  but  too  long,  and  his  diary,  good. 

12.  Kraut's  sermon,  sound  in  doctrine. 

13.  Miller's  sermon,  good  in  doctrine;  the  diary  is  also  good. 

14.  Schulze's  sermon  and  diary,  good. 

15.  Demme's  sermon  and  diary,  very  good. 

16.  Walz  submitted  nothing. 

17.  From  Wachter,  Kriigler  and  Stein  there  was  nothing  presented. 

18.  H.  A.  Kurtz's  sermon  and  diary,  good,  the  contents  very  evan- 
gelical. 

Resolved,  To  renew  the  licenses  of  all  the  candidates  who  are  not  to 
be  ordained,  and  that  this  evening  the  President  shall  again  publicly 
read  to  them  their  duties. 

Resolved,  That  the  candidates  proposed  for  ordination  be  publicly 
ordained  this  evening. 

Resolved,  That  the  deacons  proposed  as  pastors  be  also  publicly  de- 
clared as  such  this  evening,  with  the  right  hand  of  fellowship  (durch 
einen  Handschlag). 

After  the  business  had  been  completed,  a  hymn  was  sung,  and  the 
whole  Ministerium  humbly  bowed  before  its  Shepherd,  thanking  Him 
for  His  gracious  assistance,  which  He  had  thus  far  vouchsafed,  and 
earnestly  and  humbly  imploring  His  further  blessing,  in  a  prayer  which 
the  President  offered. 

This  evening,  about  candle-light,  the  preachers  and  congregation 
assembled  in  the  church.  The  exercises  commenced  with  singing  and 
prayer.  After  prayer,  the  ceremonies,  as  previously  arranged,  were 
conducted  by  the  officers  of  the  Ministerium  and  their  assistants,  in  the 
presence  of  God  and  our  Saviour,  in  a  solemn,  devout  and  touching 
manner. 

Another  hymn  was  sung,  and  after  the  singing,  Dr.  Endress,  pastor 
loci,  delivered  a  touching  address  to  the  congregation.  Thereupon  he, 
in  the  name  of  all  the  preachers,  thanked  the  congregation  for  the  kind 
and  liberal  entertainment  they  had  enjoyed.  In  behalf  of  all  the 
preachers,  he  wished  for  the  congregation  all  temporal  and  eternal 
blessings  from  the  Giver  of  all  good,  and  requested  the  congregation  to 
bow  in  the  presence  of  God,  offered  prayer,  and  pronounced  the  bene- 
diction. 

To  the  Great  Shepherd  of  His  church  be  given  hearty  thanks  that 
He  has  not  departed  from  the  same.    May  He  continue  to  be  her  Light, 


568  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

her  Strength,  her  Defence,  Comfort  and  Salvation,  to  His  glory  and 
through  Him,  to  the  glory  of  the  Father.     Amen. 
That  the  above  is  correct  is  certified  by 

Joh.  Con.  Jager, 
Secretary  of  the  Ministerium. 


SEVENTY-FOURTH  CONVENTION 

1821. 


SYNODICAL  MEETING, 

Held  in  Chambersburg,  in  Trinity  Week,  1821. 

In  accordance  with  the  resolution  of  last  year's  Synod,  the  preachers 
and  the  delegates  of  their  congregations  assembled  on  Trinity  Sunday, 
June  17, 1821,  in  the  residence  of  Pastor  Moller,  in  Chambersburg,  and 
at  about  10  o'clock  in  the  morning  went  in  procession  to  the  church. 
Pastor  Schmucker,  President  of  the  Ministerium,  preached  on  I  Cor. 
3:9.  At  the  same  time,  Pastor  Schindel  preached  in  the  Reformed 
church,  on  I  Chron.  29  :  9  ;  Pastor  Becker  in  the  Presbyterian  church, 
in  the  English  language,  on  Acts  3;  19,  and  Candidate  Kriigler  in  the 
Methodist  church,  also  in  the  English  language,  on  I  Tim.  1  :  15. 

In  the  afternoon  Pastor  Jiiger,  Secretary  of  the  Ministerium,  preached 
in  the  Lutheran  church,  on  Matt.  11 :  26-30 ;  Pastor  Knoske,  in  the 
Reformed  church,  on  Matt.  6  :  33,  and  Pastor  Ernst  in  the  Presbyterian 
church  in  the  English  language  on  Luke  19 :  41,  42. 

In  the  evening  Deacon  Keller  preached  on  Luke  23 :  34. 


Monday,  June  18th,  9  a.m. 

The  preachers  and  delegates  assembled  in  the  church, 
was  opened  with  singing  and  prayer  by  the  President. 
The  following  preachers  were  present : 


Pastors. 

Dr.  Kurtz  . 
Jiiger  .  .  . 
Schmucker  . 
Dr  Loch  man 
Geisenhainer 
Dr.  Endress . 
Rothrauf  .  . 
Muhlenbenr 


Place. 

Baltimore. 

Allentown. 

York  town. 

Harrisburg. 

Peikland. 

Lancaster. 

Greencastle. 

Reading. 


Pastors. 


The  session 


Place. 


Griiber  .  . 

Moller  .  . 

Knoske.  . 

Mensch  . 
Melzheimer 

Hecht  .  . 

Ullrich  . 

Ernst    .  . 


.  York  County. 
.  Chambersburg. 
.  Kutztown. 
.  Springfield. 
.  Hanover. 
.  Easton. 
.  Tulpehocken. 
.  Lebanon. 
569 


570 


DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 


Pastors.  Place. 

Rebenack    .    .    .  Somerset  Co. 

Batis Warwick. 

Becker Germantown. 

Heniping ....  Lykens  Valley. 
Sckindel  ....  Sunbury. 
Herbst,  Jr.  .    .    .  Gettysburg. 

Filbert New  Holland. 

Probst Forks  Township. 


DlACONI. 

Heim 

Rupert 

Scriba 

Keller 

B.  Kurtz .  .  .  . 
Heim,  Jr.  .  .  . 
Riernensclmeider. 

Repas 

Heyer 


Union  County. 
Meadville. 
Strasburg. 
Carlisle. 
Hagersstadt. 
Mifflin  County. 
Virginia. 
Centreville. 
Cumberland, 
Maryland. 

The  following  were  absent : 

Pastors. 

Dr.  Helmuth,  Sen- 
ior of  the  Minis- 
terium    ,    .    .    .  With  excuse. 

Dr.  Schaffer    .    .      " 

Carpenter.    ...      "         " 

Henkel    ....  Without  excuse. 

Grob 

H.  Geisenhainer .         "  " 

Herbst 

Roller 

D.  F.  Schaffer  « 

Miller 

Vanhoff  ....  With  excuse. 

Ilgen " 

Flohr Without  excuse. 

Engel With  excuse. 

Meendsen     .    .    .  Without  excuse. 


DlACONI. 

Stecher .  .  . 
Geisenhainer 
Miller  .    .    . 


Candidates. 
Trumbauer  .   . 


Haal  .  . 
Kessler,  Jr. 
Schmick  . 
German  . 
Schultz .  . 
Demme  . 
Kriigler    . 


Stein     .    . 
H.  Kurtz 
Schmucker,  Jr 
Speck  .    .    . 


York  County. 

Peikland. 

Oley. 


Leacock  Twp., 
Lancaster  Co. 

Newville. 

Bloomsburg. 

Sinking  Valley. 

Macungie. 

Johnstown. 

Hummelstown. 

Berlin,  Somerset 
County. 

Jonestown. 

Plainfield. 

Virginia. 

Berlin,  Adams 
County. 


Pastors. 

Reck  _ With  excuse. 

Doring  and  j 
Wartman.    j 

Strein " 

Plitt Without  excuse. 


Deacons. 
Rehman  .  . 
Miinnig  .  . 
Meierhoffer  . 
Osterloh  .  . 
Kessler  .  . 
Stock  .  .  . 
Cruse   .    .    . 


Without  excuse. 
With  excuse. 
Without  excuse. 
With  excuse. 
Without  excuse. 


Candidates. 

Schnee With  excuse. 

Weiand    .    .    .    .      " 


SEVENTY-FOURTH  CONVENTION,  1821. 


en 


Candidates. 
Kdhler     ....  Without  excuse. 
Jiiger,  Jr.    ...  With  excuse. 

Walz " 

Kraut Without  excuse. 


Candidates. 
Wachter  ....  Without  excuse. 
Sackman ....        " 
G.  Jiiger  ....  With  excuse. 
Strein " 


The  following  gentlemen  were  recognized  as  delegates  from  the 
congregations  attached  to  their  names,  and  as  voting  members  of  the 
Synod  : 


1'IXEGATE. 

Wilhelm  Johnston, 
Peter  Brua  .... 
Christian  Romig  .  . 
Geo,  Ludwig  Mayer, 
Joh.  Rothbautsch  . 
Geo.  Mitschel  .  .  . 
Theobald  Bieber  .  . 
Carl  Barnitz  .  .  . 
Samuel  Rex  .  .  . 
Ernst  Felde  .  .  . 
George  Eister  .  .    . 

Valentin  Flohr  .  . 
Wilhelm  Wagner  . 
Friedrich  Scharrets, 


PLACE. 

Yorktown. 

llarrisburg. 

Pottstown. 

Lancaster. 

Chambersburg 

Greencastle. 

Kutztown. 

Hanover. 

Warwick. 

German  town. 

Lykens  Yal- 

ley. 
Gettysburg. 
Ost  Buffalo. 
Carlisle. 


DELEGATE.  TLACE. 

Plein.  Zimmermann,  Mifflin. 
Geo.  Oehler  .    .    .  Rockingham, 

Virginia. 
Joh.  Fuchs    ,    .    .  Centreville. 
Carl  Diehl     .    .    .  York  County. 
Heinr.  Achinbach,  Newville. 
Conrad  Fleck    .    .  Sinking  Val- 
ley. 
Thomas  Fox  .    .    .  Hummelstown. 
Joh.  Koleman  .    .  Berlin,  Somer- 
set County. 
David  Traxel        \  McConnels- 
Michael  Lehman)     burg,  one  vote 
Jacob  Bohn    .    .    .  Berlin, 

Adams  County. 


This  year's  Synod  thus  consisted  of  seventy-four  members. 

Dr.  Kurtz  reported  that  the  preachers  in  Maryland  and  Virginia 
had  made  use  of  the  permission  given  in  the  last  Synodical  Meeting, 
and  had  formed  a  separate  Synod  for  those  States,  and  that  Pastor  B. 
Kurtz  had  been  named  delegate  by  that  Synod  to  attend  this  year's 
session  of  the  Pennsylvania  Synod.  The  President  hereupon  stated, 
that  in  accordance  with  our  Synodical  Constitution,  Pastor  Kurtz  is 
recognized  as  delegate  of  the  Synod  in  Maryland  and  Virginia,  and  is 
entitled  to  a  seat  and  vote. 

Pastors  Hoffman  and  Rahauser,  delegates  of  the  Reverend  High 
German  Reformed  Synod,  took  their  seats  as  advisory  members. 

The  Synod  proceeded  to  the  election  of  its  officers  for  this  year,  and 

Pastor  Schmucker  was  elected  President. 
"       Miihlenberg  wTas  elected  Secretary. 
Dr.  Endress  was  elected  Treasurer. 


572  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

The  communications  were  now  called  in  by  the  President,  numbered 
and  handed  over  to  eight  committees,  who  should  investigate  their  con- 
tents and  report. 

The  first  committee  consisted  of  Dr.  Kurtz,  Pastor  Schindel,  Deacon 
Heim,  Candidate  Trumbauer  and  the  delegates  Messrs.  Johnston  and 
Zimmerman. 

The  second  committee  consisted  of  Pastors  Jager  and  Melzheimer, 
Deacon  Ruppert,  Candidate  Haal  and  the  delegates,  Messrs.  Brua  and 
Oehler. 

The  third  committee  consisted  of  Dr.  Lochman,  Pastor  Hecht,  Dea- 
con Keller,  Candidate  Kessler  and  the  delegates,  Messrs.  Mayer  and 
Scharrets. 

The  fourth  committee  consisted  of  Pastors  Geisenhainer  and  Ullrich, 
Deacon  Kurtz,  Candidate  Germann  and  the  delegates,  Messrs.  Romig 
and  Mitchell. 

The  fifth  committee  consisted  of  Pastors  Rothrauf  and  Ernst,  Deacon 
Heim,  Jr.,  Candidate  Demme  and  the  delegates,  Messrs.  Rothbautsch 
and  Bieber. 

The  sixth  committee  consisted  of  Pastors  Gruber  [Griiber]  and 
Rebenack,  Deacon  Riemenschneider,  Candidate  Kriigler  and  the  dele- 
gates, Messrs  Barnitz  aud  Rex. 

The  seventh  committee  consisted  of  Pastors  Knoske  and  Becker, 
Deacon  Repas,  Candidate  Schmucker  and  the  delegates,  Messrs.  Felde 
and  Eister. 

The  eighth  committee  consisted  of  Pastors  Mensch,  Herbst,  Jr., 
Hemping,  Filbert  and  Probst,  Deacons  Stecker  and  Geisenhainer  and 
the  delegates,  Messrs  Flohr  and  Wagner. 

The  Protocol  of  last  year's  meeting  was  read,  as  is  customary. 

Resolved,  That  the  expression, "  On  the  west  side  of  the  Susquehanna  " 
(page  12  of  the  printed  copy)  be  cancelled  as  incorrect,  and  the  words 
"  in  Maryland  and  Virginia  "  be  inserted. 

Resolved,  That  it  shall  be  noted,  that  Pastor  H.  Geisenhainer  paid 
five  dollars  into  the  treasury  last  year. 

The  session  was  closed  Avith  prayer,. 

Monday  Afternoon,  3  o'clock. 

The  session  was  opened  with  singing  and  prayer. 

The  first  committee  made  the  following  report  on  the  papers  handed 
to  it : 

No.  1.  Is  a  letter  from  Rev.  Mr.  Riemenschneider,  in  which  he 
accuses  Rev.  Mr.  Meierhofer  of  having  administered  the  Holy  Com- 
munion in  one  of  his  congregations,  which  he,  it  is  true,  had  for  certain 


SEVENTY-FOURTH  CONVENTION,  1821.  573 

reasons  given  up  ;  also  of  endeavoring  to  keep  this  congregation  in  a 
state  of  unrest. 

Resolved,  That  all  papers  referring  to  this  matter  he  given  to  a  special 
committee  to  he  carefully  examined  and  judgment  passed. 

Doctors  Kurtz  and  Lochman,  Pastor  Geisenhainer  and  Messrs.  John- 
ston and  Brua  were  appointed  as  this  committee. 

No.  2.  A  petition  signed  by  members  of  six  congregations  in  Union 
County,  that  Mr.  Jacob  "W.  Schmidt,  who  until  now  has  studied  under 
Pastor  Schindel,  be  appointed  their  preacher. 

Resolved,  To  refer  this  matter  to  the  Ministerium. 

No.  3.  A  letter  from  Mr.  Wackerhagen,  Secretary  of  the  New  York 
Synod,  in  which  he  laments  the  fact,  that  the  delegate  named  by  the 
Pennsylvania  Synod,  Pastor  F.  "W.  Geisenhainer,  could  not  attend  their 
meeting  because  of  unfavorable  circumstances.  Also  expresses  the 
desire  that  he  may  receive  information  concerning  the  division  of  the 
Pennsylvania  Synod,  its  geographical  extent  and  the  number  of  mem- 
bers of  both  Synods. 

The  President  reports  that  he  has  already  answered  the  letter.  The 
Synod  regrets  that  Pastor  Geisenhainer  could  not  undertake  the  journey 
to  New  York  State. 

No.  4.  A  letter  from  Deacon  Heyer,  in  which  he  makes  report  of 
his  journey  in  the  States  of  Kentucky  and  Indiana  assigned  to  him  by 
the  Synod.  Upon  motion  the  entire  letter  was  read.  The  Synod 
rejoices  to  see  the  diligence  and  faithfulness  with  which  Traveling 
Preacher  Heyer  performed  the  work  assigned  to  him,  and  hopes  that 
through  the  blessing  of  the  Father  of  mankind  it  may  not  remain 
fruitless. 

A  letter  from  Jefferson  County,  Kentucky,  which  was  received  only 
a  few  hours  ago,  was  read.  The  congregation  in  that  place  expresses 
thanks  that  the  Synod  has  provided  for  them  and  sent  traveling  preach- 
ers into  their  neighborhood.  They  report  that  they  sent  eleven  dollars 
and  a  half  for  the  Synodical  Treasury  through  the  Lutheran  Traveling 
Preacher,  Mr.  Heyer,  and  ask  that  the  Synod  also  provide  for  their 
brethren  in  the  State  of  Indiana,  and  send  traveling  preachers  to  that 
place.  Another  letter  from  Nelson  County,  Kentucky,  was  read.  The 
congregations  there  also  express  thanks  for  the  love  which  the  Synod 
showed  them  in  sending  a  traveling  preacher.  They  report  the  sending 
of  a  contribution  of  seven  dollars  for  the  Synodical  treasury  through 
Mr.  Heyer,  and  mention  that  a  traveling  preacher  could  accornpli-h 
much  good  in  the  State  of  Indiana. 

/,'  ulved,  To  refer  the  more  careful  consideration  of  this  matter  to 
the  appointment  of  the  traveling  preachers. 


574  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

No.  5.  A  letter  from  Pastor  Carpenter,  in  which  he  reports  that  the 
precious  peace  which  had  for  a  time  been  broken  because  of  the  intro- 
duction of  the  English  language,  was  again  restored  in  his  congrega- 
tions;  that  he  now  works  without  any  cares  (ganz  ohne  Sorgen),  and 
has  begun  to  write  a  popular  work  (fur  den  gemeinen  Mann)  on  the 
most  important  truths  of  the  Christian  religion.  He  desires  to  know 
whether  the  brethren  consider  the  publication  of  such  a  work  necessary 
or  not. 

Resolved,  To  refer  the  matter  to  the  Ministerium. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

This  evening  Pastor  Ulrich  preached  on  I  Cor.  1 :  23,  24. 

Tuesday,  8  a.m. 

The  session  was  opened  with  singing  and  prayer. 

The  second  committee  made  the  following  report  on  the  papers  given 
to  it : 

No.  6.  A  letter  from  Dr.  Schaffer,  of  Philadelphia,  in  which  he 
excuses  his  absence  this  year,  and  wishes  the  Divine  blessing  upon  the 
Synod ;  personally  sends  $5  to  the  Synodical  treasury,  and  encloses  a 
list  of  baptized,  etc. 

On  motion  the  letter  was  read,  and  the  President  was  commissioned 
to  reply. 

No.  7.  A  letter  from  Candidate  "W.  Jager,  of  Philadelphia,  in  which 
he  excuses  his  absence,  commends  himself  to  the  prayers  of  the  Synod, 
reports  the  number  of  baptized,  etc.,  and  asks  for  the  renewal  of  his  license. 

Resolved,  To  accept  the  excuse,  and  to  refer  the  consideration  of  the 
renewal  of  the  license  to  the  Ministerium. 

A  letter  from  Deacon  Kruse,  of  Philadelphia,  in  which  he  asks  that 
his  absence  this  year  be  excused. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Kruse  shall  be  excused. 

No.  8.  A  letter  from  Pastor  Strein,  in  which  he  excuses  his  absence, 
and  wishes  the  Synod  the  Divine  blessing  ;  also  states  that  he  sends 
$6.50  for  the  treasury  through  Dr.  Endress,  and  encloses  the  number 
of  baptized,  etc 

The  excuse  was  accepted. 

No.  9.  A  letter  from  Pastor  D.  F.  Schaffer,  Secretary  of  the  Evan- 
gelical Lutheran  Synod  in  Maryland  and  Virginia,  in  which  it  is 
reported  that  the  said  Synod  named  the  Rev.  B.  Kurtz  as  its  delegate 
to  the  Synod  of  Pennsylvania;  that  their  Synod  meets  in  Friederich- 
stadt  on  the  first  Sunday  in  September,  and  he  [B.  Kurtz]  has  been 
commissioned  fraternally  to  invite  the  preachers  of  the  Pennsylvania 
Synod  to  attend  it. 


SEVENTY-FOURTH   CONVENTION,  1821.  575 

Resolved,  That  Pastors  Moller  and  Herbst,  Jr.,  shall  be  the  delegates 
of  this  Synod  to  attend  the  Synod  of  Maryland  and  Virginia. 

Resolved^  That  the  President  answer  the  letter  of  the  Maryland 
Synod,  and  in  his  reply  report  that  Ave,  with  respect  and  love,  recognize 
ii  aa  a  sister  Synod,  have  received  their  delegate  in  accordance  with  our 
Constitution,  and  have  appointed  Pastors  Moller  and  Herbst,  Jr.,  dele- 
gates to  attend  their  session. 

No.  10-  A  paper  from  Candidate  Schnee,  in  which  he  reports  that 
he  does  not  attend  the  Synod  because  he  has  no  congregations,  also  has 
performed  no  ministerial  acts  during  the  past  year  ;  he  hopes,  however, 
soon  to  receive  congregations  again,  and  therefore  desires  the  renewal 
of  his  license. 

Resolved,  To  refer  the  matter  to  the  Ministerium. 

The  committee  appointed  to  investigate  the  accusations  of  Mr.  Rie- 
menschneider  against  Mr.  Meierhofer  made  written  report,  whereupon 

Resolved,  That  the  report  of  this  committee,  together  with  all  papers 
referring  to  the  matter,  be  handed  over  to  the  Synod  of  Maryland 
through  our  delegate,  with  the  explanation  that  this  Synod  could  not 
decide  in  this  matter,  and  regards  it  as  a  case  belonging  to  the  Mary- 
land [Synod]. 

The  third  committee  made  the  following  report  on  the  papers  handed 
to  it: 

No.  11  contains  a  reply  of  the  Trustees  of  the  Frey  Institution  to 
certain  questions  put  by  a  committee  of  this  Synod. 

The  committee  is  of  the  opinion  that  this  document  should  he  read 
in  the  Synod,  and  hopes  that  a  new  committee  may  be  appointed  to 
urge  the  matter  on  without  delay. 

Resolved,  That  such  a  committee  be  named,  and  that  it  be  com- 
missioned to  strive  that  the  will  of  the  deceased  Mr.  George  Frey  be 
carried  out. 

The  Synod  hereupon  named  the  following  men  on  this  committee : 
Pastors  Schmucker  and  Endress,  Messrs.  Geo.  L.  Mayer,  and  Amos 
Ellmacker,  of  Lancaster,  and  Mr.  Carl  Barnitz,  of  Yorktown. 

No.  12.  A  letter  from  Mr.  Mannhardt,  of  Philadelphia,  together 
with  several  lists  of  books  which  he  recommends  to  the  members  of  the 
Synod.  In  a  postscript  to  the  letter  the  worthy  Senior  of  the  Minis- 
terium recommends  Candidate  Walz  Superintendent  of  the  Frankean 
Institute  (Aufseher  des  Frankischen  Instituts). 

N.i.  13  contains  a  favorable  testimonial  for  Candidate  Speck;  like- 
wise a  favorable  testimonial  for  Candidate  Stein,  together  with  a  notice 
that  he  will  pay  $6.22  to  the  Synodical  treasury,  and  a  petition  that  his 
congregations  be  excused  for  not  sending  a  delegate. 


576  DOCUMENTAKY  HISTOKY. 

The  Synod  rejoices  at  each  favorable  testimonial,  and  accepts  the 
excuse,  because  of  the  great  distance. 

No.  14  contains  a  recommendation  of  the  applicant,  Mr.  Eister,  and 
a  favorable  testimonial  for  Pastor  Hemping. 

Resolved,  That  at  the  proper  time  Mr.  Eister  shall  be  examined. 

No.  15.  A  letter  of  excuse  from  Pastor  Engel,  together  with  a  notice 
that  he  sends  $7.34  for  the  Synodical  treasury,  through  Pastor  Muh- 
lenberg. 

The  Synod  accepts  the  excuse. 

Contains  further  a  complaint  of  Rev.  Knoske  against  the  Mosellem 
congregation. 

Resolved,  That  a  committee  of  two  preachers  and  two  congregational 
delegates  be  named,  whose  duty  it  shall  be  to  visit  this  congregation, 
carefully  to  investigate  the  matter,  and  to  take  such  action  as  they 
approve. 

On  this  committee  Pastors  Geisenhainer  and  Hecht  were  appointed, 
with  the  privilege  of  choosing  the  congregational  delegates  from  their 
Church  Councils. 

On  motion  it  was  Resolved,  That  a  committee  be  named  to  examine 
the  Protocol  of  the  General  Synod  of  the  High  German  Reformed 
Church,  which  was  sent  to  this  Synod,  and  to  report  whether  there  is 
anything  in  it  concerning  which  it  is  necessary  to  take  action  in  this 
meeting. 

Pastors  Jager  and  Becker  were  appointed  on  this  committee. 

After  prayer  the  session  was  closed. 

Tuesday,  3  p.m. 

The  session  was  opened  with  singing  and  prayer. 

On  motion  of  last  year's  Treasurer,  it  was  resolved,  that  a  committee 
be  named  to  audit  his  accounts. 

The  President  appointed  for  this  work  Pastor  Ernst  and  Messrs.  G. 
L.  Mayer  and  F.  Scharrets. 

The  fourth  committee  made  the  following  report : 

No.  16.  A  petition  of  some  members  of  the  Church  Council  of  the 
Wennrich's.  congregation,  in  Dauphin  County,  in  which  the  Synod  is 
requested  to  permit  Mr.  Demme  further  to  serve  them  as  preacher,  with 
an  appended  note,  from  which  it  is  to  be  concluded  that  the  debt  they 
owe  to  the  Harrisburg  congregation  shall  be  settled. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Demme  be  at  liberty  to  act  in  this  matter  as  he 
thinks  best. 

No.  17.  A  letter  from  a  congregation  in  Jefferson  County,  Kentucky, 
in  which  it  is  stated  that  Candidate  H  A.  Kurtz  again  arrived  there, 


SEVENTY-FOURTH  CONVENTION,  1821.  577 

that  the  congregation  is  satisfied  with  him  and  desires  the  renewal  of 
his  license. 

Resolved,  To  refer  the  matter  to  the  Ministerial  Meeting. 

No.  18.  A  petition  signed  by  twenty-seven  members  of  the  Bind- 
nagel's  congregation,  in  which  the  Synod  is  requested  to  allow  Candi- 
date Stein  to  serve  this  congregation. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Stein  be  allowed  to  accept  it. 

No.  19.  A  document  from  Mr.  G.  F.  Jiiger,  in  which  he  asks  that  his 
absence  be  excused  ;  declares  his  dissatisfaction  and  that  of  his  congre- 
gation with  the  establishment  of  a  General  Synod ;  states  that  Mr. 
Knoske  refused  to  take  his  diary  along,  but  will  pay  87  into  the  Syn- 
odical  Treasury  for  him,  and  also  encloses  the  number  of  baptized,  etc. 

Resolved,  Because  of  the  great  distance,  to  accept  the  excuse  of  Mr. 
Jiiger. 

No.  20.  A  letter  in  which  three  congregations  which  are  served  by 
Candidate  Jiiger  protest  against  the  establishment  of  a  General  Synod. 

Resolved,  That  the  majority  must  decide  in  this  matter,  and  that  after 
a  decision  it  is  the  duty  of  the  minority  to  yield. 

The  fifth  committee  made  the  following  report  on  the  papers  en- 
trusted to  it. 

No.  21  is  an  urgent  request  from  the  congregation  in  Lebanon,  that 
the  next  Synodical  Meeting  be  held  there,  with  the  assurance  of  friendly 
entertainment. 

Resolved,  That  in  accordance  with  our  Constitution  (Synodal-Ord- 
nung),  the  matter  must  be  decided  by  a  vote. 

No.  22.  A  paper,  in  which  Mr.  Osterloh  begs  that  his  absence  be  ex- 
cused ;  gives  the  number  of  baptized,  etc.  ;  reports  that  he  sends  $2  for 
the  Synodical  treasury,  and  complains  of  the  fact  that  so  little  church 
discipline  is  found  in  our  congregations. 

Resolved,  To  excuse  the  absence  of  Mr.  Osterloh. 

No.  23.  Petition  of  a  congregation  in  York  County  to  have  Mr. 
Ludolf  H.  Meyer  as  their  preacher. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Meyer  be  permitted  to  accept  the  congregation, 
if,  after  due  examination  in  doctrine  and  life,  he  be  found  fit  for  the 
ministry. 

No.  24.  A  letter  from  Elizabethtown,  Lancaster  County,  in  which 
the  wish  is  expressed  that  the  Synod  advise  their  preacher,  Pastor 
Strein,  to  move  to  that  place. 

Resolved,  That  Pastor  Muhlenberg  be  commissioned  to  talk  with  Mr. 
Strein  in  a  friendly  way  on  this  subject,  and  to  give  him  fatherly  coun- 
sel, according  to  circumstances. 

No.  25.  Contains  the  sermons,  diary  and  license  of  Candidate  Schulze. 
37 


678  DOCUMENTARY    HISTORY. 

The  sixth  committee  made  the  following  report  on  the  papers  handed 
to  it : 

No.  26.  Contains  the  sermon,  diary  and  license  of  Candidate  Demme ; 
also  the  sermon  and  diary  of  the  candidate,  Mr.  Jacob  Albert. 

Nos.  27  and  29  are  letters  in  which  Mr.  Meierhofer  complains  of 
the  conduct  of  Mr.  Riemenschneider.  They  were  handed  to  the  com- 
mittee appointed  to  investigate  this  matter. 

No.  28.  A  letter  from  Candidate  Weiand,  in  which  he  asks  that  his 
absence  be  excused  and  his  license  renewed  ;  also  gives  the  number  of 
baptized,  etc. 

Resolved,  To  accept  his  excuse. 

No.  30.  A  letter  from  Mr.  Ferdinand  Cramer,  in  which  he  com- 
plains of  treatment  formerly  experienced,  and  asks  that  the  Synod  to 
some  extent  restore  his  honor  by  a  written  declaration  that  because  of 
his  usefulness  in  his  office  he  is  considered  a  friend.  A  report  of  his 
ministerial  acts  in  the  previous  year  is  enclosed. 

The  seventh  committee  reports  as  follows  : 

No.  31.  A  letter  from  Mr.  Heinrich  Heine,  in  which  he  petitions  to 
be  again  received  into  the  Ministerium. 

Resolved,  To  refer  the  matter  to  the  Ministerial  Meeting. 

No.  32  A  letter  from  Mr.  H.  Heine  to  Pastor  Schmucker  on  the 
same  subject. 

No.  33.  A  letter  of  the  Church  Council  of  the  Frieden's  Church,  in 
Rockingham  County,  Virginia,  to  Mr.  Riemenschneider,  in  which  he  is 
notified  that  he  can  be  their  preacher  no  longer  than  to  the  end  of  his 
year.  Further,  a  favorable  testimonial  for  Mr.  Riemenschneider,  signed 
by  twenty-two  members  of  the  Frieden's  Church,  with  the  wish  ap- 
pended that  he  remain  their  pastor. 

Both  documents  were  handed  to  the  special  committee  appointed  to 
investigate  this  matter. 

No.  34.  A  favorable  testimonial  for  Candidate  Samuel  Trumbauer, 
signed  by  the  Church  Councils  of  his  congregations. 

The  Synod  rejoices  at  the  praiseworthy  conduct  of  Mr.  Trumbauer. 

No.  35.  A  favorable  testimonial  for  Candidate  Peter  Kes.<ler,  signed 
by  many  members  of  his  congregations. 

At  this  also  the  Synod  rejoices. 

No.  36.  A  letter  from  Messrs.  Doring  and  Wartman,  in  which  they 
ask  that  their  absence  be  excused,  and  express  their  dissatisfaction  and 
that  of  their  congregations  with  the  establishment  of  a  General  Synod. 
They  send  $14.10  for  the  Synodical  treasury,  through  the  applicant, 
Mr.  J.  F.  Abele,  whom  they  highly  recommend  for  admission.  A  list 
of  baptized,  etc. ,  is  enclosed. 


SEVENTY-FOURTH  CONVENTION,  1821.  579 

Resolved,  That  at  the  proper  time  Mr.  Abele  shall  be  examined  as  to 
doctrine  and  life. 

The  eighth  committee  made  the  following  report  on  the  papers 
handed  to  it : 

No.  37.  A  favorable  testimonial  for  Candidate  Germann  from  all 
his  congregations. 

The  Synod  rejoices  at  it. 

No.  38.  Several  fine  (schone)  testimonials  for  Candidate  Kriigler. 

The  Synod  rejoices,  also,  at  these  testimonials. 

No.  39.  A  letter  from  Deacon  Mennig,  in  which  he  asks  that  his 
absence  be  excused,  gives  the  number  of  baptized,  etc.,  and  reports  that 
he  sends  86.75  for  the  Synodical  treasury. 

Resolved,  To  accept  the  excuse. 

No.  40.  A  request  from  the  Little  Cove  congregation,  in  Warren 
County,  that  Mr.  Schultz  be  permitted  to  serve  them  in  Mr.  Scriba's 
place;  also,  a  notice  that  their  delegate,  Mr.  Traxler,  could  report  con- 
cerning the  condition  of  the  congregation. 

After  the  report  of  Mr.  Traxler,  and  the  fraternal  explanations  of 
Messrs.  Scriba  and  Schultz  were  heard,  it  was  Resolved,  That  the  Synod 
fraternally  advise  the  congregation  in  Little  Cove  to  keep  Mr.  Scriba 
as  their  pastor. 

No-  41.  A  favorable  testimonial  for  Candidate  Heinrich  Kurtz,  and 
a  request  that  his  congregations  be  excused  for  not  sending  a  dele- 
gate. 

The  Synod  rejoices  at  the  favorable  testimonial,  and  accepts  the 
excuse  of  the  congregations. 

No  42.  Petition  of  a  congregation  in  Lattimore  Township,  Adams 
County,  that  Candidate  Speck  be  allowed  to  serve  them. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Speck  be  allowed  to  accept  the  congregation. 

On  motion,  Resolved,  That  Pastor  Denney,  preacher  of  the  Presby- 
terian congregation  in  Chambersburg,  be  recognized  as  an  advisory 
m<  tuber  of  this  Synodical  Meeting. 

The  consideration  of  the  report  of  the  eighth  committee  was  continued. 

No.  43.  A  call  for  Mr.  J.  W.  Schmidt  from  *ix  congregations  which 
had  formerly  been  served  by  Mr.  Walter. 

Resolved,  To  refer  the  matter  to  the  Ministerial  Meeting. 

No.  44.  A  call  for  Mr.  J.  W.  Schmidt  from  the  congregation  in 
Longstown,  with  the  explanation  that  they  had  been  unable  to  follow 
the  advice  of  the  Synod  to  accept  Mr.  Heine. 

]!c.«ili;d,   To  refer  it  to  the  Miiiisterium. 

No.  45.  A  petition  from  Mr.  J.  F.  Abele  for  admission  into  the 
Miiiisterium,  and  a  position  as  traveling  preacher. 


580  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY.    ' 

Resolved,  That  the  Synod  allow  the  Ministerium  to  appoint  traveling 
preachers,  if  it  considers  it  necessary. 

Resolved,  To  refer  the  consideration  of  Mr.  Abele's  position  to  the 
Ministerial  Meeting. 

No.  46.  A  letter  from  Pastor  Ilgen,  in  which  he  asks  that  his  absence 
be  excused,  and  that  a  candidate's  license  be  granted  his  son.  A  list 
of  baptized,  etc.,  is  enclosed,  also  a  notice  that  he  sends  a  contribution 
to  the  Synodical  treasury. 

Resolved,  To  accept  his  excuse,  and  to  examine  his  son  at  the  proper 
time. 

No.  47  contains  the  transactions  of  the  Special  Conference  held  at 
Kutztown,  August  27,  1820. 

These  transactions  were,  on  motion,  read  before  the  Synod  and 
approved. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

This  evening  Deacon  Heyer  preached  on  Matt.  22 :  5. 

Wednesday,  9  a.m. 

The  session  was,  as  usual,  opened  with  singing  and  prayer. 

The  committee  appointed  to  examine  the  Protocol  of  the  reverend 
Reformed  General  Synod  reported  :  That  they  had  examined  the  Pro- 
tocol given  them,  and  found  the  following  points  which  it  might  per- 
haps be  necessary  to  discuss  in  this  meeting : 

1.  That  the  delegates  to  the  Reformed  Synod  appointed  by  us  in 
last  year's  meeting,  Messrs.  Schafer  and  Kurtz,  were  received  as  ad- 
visory members  of  the  Reformed  Synod. 

Resolved,  That  this  Synod  sees  in  this  a  proof  of  the  love  of  those 
whom  we  recognize  as  brethren,  and  is  always  ready,  as  heretofore,  to 
return  this  favor. 

2.  That  Pastors  Hoffman  and  Rahauser  were  appointed  by  the  Re- 
formed Synod  as  delegates  to  attend  our  Synodical  Meeting  this  year. 

Resolved,  That  Pastors  Muhlenberg  and  Knoske,  as  delegates  of  this 
Synod,  attend  the  next  session  of  the  reverend  High  German  Reformed 
General  Synod,  which  is  to  be  held  in  Reading. 

3.  That  the  resolution  of  the  Evangelical  Lutheran  Synod  in  refer- 
ence to  Messrs.  Scholl  and  Rothrauf  be  read,  and  the  further  consider- 
ation be  postponed  indefinitely. 

It  was  stated  that  the  matter  had  been  peaceably  settled,  at  which 
the  Synod  rejoiced  heartily. 

4.  That  twenty-five  copies  of  the  Transactions  of  the  reverend  Re- 
formed Synod  should  be  sent  to  the  Lutheran  Synod  of  Pennsylvania  as 
a  token  of  friendship. 


SEVENTY-FOURTH  CONVENTION,  1821.  581 

Resolved,  That  the  Synod  acknowledges  the  receipt  of  these  copies, 
•with  thanks. 

Ju  solved,  That  Pastor  Miihlenberg  hand  twenty-five  copies  of  our 
Transactions  of  this  year  to  the  next  Reformed  General  Synod. 

5.  That  the  said  Synod  resolved  to  contribute  $100  from  its  Synod- 
ical  treasury  toward  the  support  of  the  Franklin  College,  in  the  city  of 
Lancaster,  provided  the  Lutheran  Synod  do  the  same. 

Resolved,  That,  as  had  already  been  determined  in  the  Synodical 
Meeting  at  Baltimore,  the  Treasurer  of  this  Synod  pay  $100  to  the 
Trustees  of  Franklin  College,  in  order  that  they  may  be  applied  by  the 
Trustees  for  the  best  interests  of  this  institution. 

The  committee  appointed  to  audit  the  accounts  of  last  year's  Treasurer, 
Muhlenberg,  reported  that  they  were  found  fully  correct,  that  a  balance 
of  $682,363  is  in  the  treasury  to  the  credit  of  the  Synod.  This  balance 
was  handed  over  to  the  newly-elected  Treasurer,  Dr.  Endress. 

The  delegates  appointed  by  last  year's  Synod  to  attend  a  meeting  of 
rates  from  the  various  Evangelical  Lutheran  Synods  and  Minis- 
teriums  at  Hagerstown,  for  the  purpose  of  drawing  up  a  Constitution 
(Grund-Verfassung)  of  a  General  Synod  of  the  Lutheran  Church 
in  the  United  States,  reported  that  they  had  performed  the  task  laid 
upon  them,  and  were  now  ready  to  lay  this  Constitution  before  the 
Synod  for  acceptance  or  rejection. 

On  motion,  this  Constitution,  together  with  the  Protocol  in  which  it 
is  outlined,  was  read  section  by  section,  and  its  acceptance  was  voted 
upon. 

When  the  Second  Section  of  the  IV  Article  was  reached,  it  was 
Resolved,  To  postpone  the  further  consideration  until  the  afternoon. 

The  session  was  closed  with  prayer. 

Wednesday,  3  p.m. 

The  session  was  opened  with  singing  and  prayer. 

The  consideration  of  the  Constitution  of  a  General  Synod  was  con- 
tinued. After  each  section  had  been  maturely  considered  and  unani- 
mously accepted,  it  was  resolved,  that  the  members  be  asked  by  name 
to  vote  for  the  acceptance  or  rejection  of  the  whole.    The  result  was : 

For  the  acceptance,  Messrs.  Kurtz,  Schmucker,  Lochman,  Geisen- 
hainer,  Endress,  Rothrauf,  Muhlenberg,  Mtiller,  Knoske,  Melzheinier, 
Hecht,  Ullrich,  Ernst,  Rebenack,  Biitis,  Becker,  Hemping,  Ilerbst,  Jr , 
Bchfndel,  Filbert,  Ileim,  Rupert,  Scriba,  Keller,  Kurtz  (B.),  Heim,  Jr., 
Riemenschneider,  Repas,  Heyer,  Stecker,  Geisenhainer,  Jr.,  Trumbauer, 
Haal,  Kessler,  Jr.,  Germann,  Demme,  Kriigler,  Stein,  Schultz,  H. 
Kurtz,  Schmucker,  Jr.,  Speck,  Johnston,  Brua,  Romig,  Mayer,  Roth- 


5S2  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

bautsch,  Mitscliel,  Bieber,  Barnitz,  Rex,  Felde,  Eister,  Flohr,  Wagner, 
Scharrets,  Zimmermann,  Oeler,  Fuchs,  Diehl,  Acbiubach,  Fleck,  Fox, 
Kohlemarm,  Troxel,  Lebraan,  Bobn — 67. 

Against  tbe  acceptance,  Messrs.  J.  C  Jiiger,  Griiber,  Menscb,  Probst, 
C  Miller,  Schmick— -6. 

Resolved,  That  five  hundred  copies  of  this  year's  Transactions  shall 
be  printed,  that  the  Secretary  attend  to  the  printing  and  the  Treasurer 
meet  the  expenses  with  money  from  the  treasury. 

The  election  of  delegates  to  tbe  General  Synod  was  proceeded  to. 
The  following  preachers  were  chosen  :  Endress,  Muhlenberg,  Schmucker, 
Lochman,  F.  W.  Geisenhainer,  and  the  following  congregational  dele- 
gates :  Carl  Barnitz,  from  Yorktovvn ;  G.  L.  Mayer,  from  Lancaster  ; 
F.  Scharrets,  from  Carbsle ;  Sam.  Rex,  from  Lebanon  County ;  and  P. 
Brua,  from  Harrisburg. 

Resolved,  Tbat  if  for  important  reasons  any  one  of  the  elected  con- 
gregational delegates  should  be  prevented  from  attending  tbe  General 
Synod,  be  together  with  his  preacher  be  allowed  to  appoint  another 
delegate  in  his  place. 

Resolved,  That  the  elected  preachers  shall  enjoy  this  same  privilege, 
as  mentioned  in  the  preceding  resolution. 

Resolved,  To  send  each  needy  preacher's  widow  fifteen  dollars  from  the 
Synodical  treasury  this  year. 

The  preachers  now  handed  in  their  lists  of  baptized,  confirmed,  com- 
municants, burials  and  schools  Those  preachers  after  whose  names  the 
following  list  is  blank,  neglected  to  send  in  tbeir  reports. 

Bap-       Con-        Commu-       Bur- 

tized.     firmed,      nicants.        ied.     Schools. 

Doctor  Helmuth —  —  —  —  — 

Schafer 235  29  733  109  4 

Kurtz —  —  —  —  — 

Pastor  Carpenter —  —  —  —  — 

«'       Henkel —  —  —  —  — 

"       Jiiger 149  99  642  45  14 

"       Schmucker 215  85  579  48  5 

Doctor  Lochmann 169  104  484  41  3 

Pastor  Geisenhainer 122  89  386  24  3 

Doctor  Endress 141  63  419  46  1 

Pastor  Rothrauf 98  31  325  25  3 

Grob —  —  —  —  — 

Mublenberg 185  80  709  41  4 

Griiber 92  29  200  27  2 

"        IT.  Geisenheiner  ....  —  —  —  —  — 


SEVENTY-FOUBTH  CONVENTION,  1821.  583 

Bap-  Con-  Cominu-  Bur- 

tized.  firmed,  uicams.  icd.  Schools. 

Pastor  Ilerbst —  —  —  —  — 

Moller 128  33  395  24  1 

Roller •..—  —  —  —  — 

Knoske 234  100  1123  44  6 

Mensch 116  38  296  18  4 

Haas —  —  —  —  — 

Schafer,  D.  F —  —  —  —  — 

Melzheimer 237  69  689  49  4 

Hecbt 112  —  285  18  1 

Miller ,.—  —  —  —  — 

Ulrich 184  96  1045  35  6 

Vaubof     .......     16  —  —  6  — 

Ernst 151  56  584  42  4 

Ilgen 150  90  689  25  2 

Rebenack 42  8  49  5  1 

Flobr —  —  —  —  — 

Batis 183  90  579  42  5 

Engel 90  51  460  41  7 

Meendsen 142  45  633  30  6 

Becker 90  43  305  63  2 

Hemping 255  120  1079  35  — 

Schindel 222  74  904  19  5 

Herbst,  Jr 90  20  543  10  4 

Reck —  —  —  —  — 

Filbert -140  90  426  25  3 

Probst 221  91  670  28  4 

^orrin- j  171  47  1025  63  8 

"        \\  artiuaun ) 

Strein 93  30  245  11  4 

Plitt —  —  —  —  — 

DlACONI. 

Mr.  Rehman —  —  —  —  — 

"     Heira 220  46  440  37  9 

"    Munnich 201  87  732  51  7 

"     Ruppert 44  32  153  1  1 

"    Scriba 36  —  23  11  1 

"    Meyerhofer —  —  —  —  — 

"     Keller 170  103  821  20  4 

"     B.  Kurtz —  —  —  —  — 

"     Heini,  Jr 222  50  580  22  10 


584  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Bap-  Con-  Commu-  Bur- 

tized.  firmed,  nicants.  ied.  Schools. 

Mr.  Osterloh 60  25  105  6  1 

"  Rienieuschneider 46  26  108  8  2 

"  Kessler —  —  —  —  — 

"  Stock —  —  —  —  — 

"  Kruse —  —  —  —  — 

"  Repas 171  57  511  22  5 

"  Heyer —  —  —  —  — 

"  Stecker 96  47  630  38  4 

"  Geisenbainer,  Jr 53  40  220  11  2 

"  C.  Miller 156  103  780  53  5 

Candidates. 

Mr.  Schnee —  —  —  —  — 

"  Weiand 75  11  295  10  — 

"  Kobler .    .      —  —  —  —  — 

"  Trumbauer 51  11  89  10  3 

«  Haal 132  76  640  22  2 

"  Kessler,  Jr 205  99  640  18  5 

"  Jager,  Jr 6  —  27  —  — 

"  Schmick 81  25  305  6  3 

"  Germann 123  109  833  39  3 

"  Walz —  —  —  —  — 

"  Demrae 81  —  274  24  4 

"  Kraut     ....,....—  —  —  —  — 

"  Wachter —  —  —  —  — 

"  Kriigler 127  52  627  14  2 

"  Stein 120  —  394  35  4 

"  H.  A.  Kurtz —  —  —  —  — 

"  Sackmann —  —  —  —  — 

"  Schultz 59  13  139  5  2 

"  G.  Jager 51  41  300  12  3 

"  H.  Kurtz 116  55  252  22  4 

"  Schmucker,  Jr —  —  —  —  — 

"  Speck 93  85  281  19  3 

"  Strein,  Jr —  —  —  —  — 

"  Albert —  —  —  —  — 


SEVENTY-FOURTH  CONVENTION,  1821. 


585 


List  of  the  Preachers  who  either  Personally  or  through 

their  Delegates  Paid  Money  into  the  Synodical 

Treasury  this  Year. 


Docto 

r  Schailer  . 

.  §5.00 

Pastor  Strein   .    .    .    . 

$6.50 

Pastor  Schmuckei 

.  50.00 

7  00 

Docto 

r  Lochmann 

.  16.00 

tt 

Mii  a  nig  .    .    . 

675 

Pastor  Geisenbaine 

r  .    9.00 

« 

Ruppert .   .    . 

4.81 

Doctor  Endresa  . 

.  20.00 

K 

Scriba     .    . 

1.50 

Pastor  Rothrauf  . 

.  10.50 

« 

Keller    .    .    . 

28.57 

tt 

Muhlenberg 

.  .  10.00 

<< 

Heira,  Jr.  . 

23.00 

a 

Griiber  .    . 

.  11.87* 

<< 

Osterloh     . 

2.00 

(I 

Moller  .    . 

.  17.00 

tt 

Repas     .    . 

7.50 

<< 

Knuske    . 

.    8.90 

<< 

Stecher  .    . 

18.37* 

« 

Mensch     . 

.    4.00 

tt 

Geisenhainer, 

<t 

Melzheimer 

.  25.00 

Jr  .  .    .    . 

.    7.00 

U 

Hecht  .    . 

.    8  00 

Candidate  Trumbauer 

.    7.53 

u 

Ulrich  .  . 

.  10  00 

'         Haal  .    . 

7.25 

It 

Ernst    .    . 

.  11.00 

'         Kessler  . 

5.19 

tt 

Ugen    .    . 

.  10.00 

'         Schmick. 

3.00 

fa 

Rebenack 

.    3.00 

'         Germann 

26.65 

(( 

Biitis    .    . 

.  37.12* 

'         Demme  . 

14.58* 

It 

Becker     . 

.  10.00 

'         Kriigler . 

14.25 

tt 

7  36 

1         Stein  .    . 

522 

tt 

Meendsen 

.  13.34 

'         Schultz  . 

3.81 

tt 

Hemping 

.    7.00 

1         G.  Jiiger 

7.00 

(( 

Schindel  . 

.    5.00 

'         H.  Kurtz 

5.50 

(( 

Herbst,  Jr. 

.    .  15.00 

'        Speck     . 

17.62* 

tt 

Filbert 

9  00 

Deac 

Dn  Miller     .    . 

7.00 

(( 

Probst  .    . 

.    5  50 

Deler 

rate  Diehl    .    . 

2.00 

ft 

H 

During  and 
Wartmann 

[    .14.10 

The  election  to  determine  the  time  and  place  of  the  next  Synodical 
Meeting  was  now  held. 

Germantown  was  determined  upon  as  the  place,  and  Trinity  Sunday 
as  the  time. 

Hereupon  a  hymn  was  sung.  The  entire  Synod  bowed  before  the 
face  of  God.  The  President  offered  prayer,  and  then  dismissed  the 
meeting  with  earnest  wishes  of  blessing. 

This  evening  Rev.  Pastor  Hecht  preached  in  the  English  language, 
on  Matt.  6  :  14. 


586  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 


MINISTERIAL  MEETING. 


Thursday,  9  a.m. 

The  preachers  assembled  in  the  church.  A  hymn  was  sung,  and 
prayer  was  offered. 

The  following  applicants  for  admission  into  the  Ministerium  presented 
themselves,  viz. :  Messrs.  Adam  Reichert,  Jacob  W.  Schmidt,  Ludolf 
H.  Meyer,  Johanu  Fr.  Abele,  Wilhelm  Ilgen  and  George  Eister. 

Two  committees  were  appointed  to  examine  these  applicants  as  to 
doctrine  and  life. 

The  first  committee  consisted  of  Messrs.  Lochmann,  Geisenhainer, 
Ernst  and  Biitis.  To  them  Messrs.  Reichert,  Schmidt,  and  Ilgen  were 
assigned. 

The  second  committee  consisted  of  Messrs.  Jager,  Dr.  Kurtz,  Becker 
and  Herbst.     To  them  Messrs.  Meyer,  Abele  and  Eister  were  assigned. 

The  sermons  and  diaries  of  the  candidates  were  now  distributed 
among  the  ordained  preachers,  to  report  of  their  character  after  due 
examination. 

The  Ministerium  proceeded  to  the  consideration  of  the  referred  matters. 

No.  1.  The  petition  of  Mr.  W.  Jager,  of  Philadelphia,  for  renewal  of 
his  license. 

Resolved,  That  it  shall  be  renewed. 

No.  2.  The  petition  of  Mr.  Schnee  that  his  license  be  renewed. 

Resolved,  To  renew  his  license  as  soon  as  he  receives  congregations, 
and  that  as  soon  as  he  is  inclined  to  seek  congregations  he  be  given  a 
copy  of  this  resolution,  signed  by  the  officers. 

No.  3.  Petition  to  renew  Mr.  Stein's  license. 

Resolved,  To  renew  it,  but  that  Dr.  Endress  shall  examine  his  diary 
and  sermon,  and  give  him  his  opinion  of  them. 

No.  4.  Petition  to  renew  Mr.  H.  A.  Kurtz's  license. 

Resolved,  That  it  shall  be  renewed. 

No.  5.  The  petition  of  Mr.  Weiand,  for  renewal  of  his  license. 

Resolved,  To  renew  it. 

A  letter  from  Dr.  Schafer,  of  Philadelphia,  in  which  he  reports  con- 
cerning the  condition  of  his  congregation,  and  concerning  his  own  cir- 
cumstances, was  read. 

A  letter  from  the  Senior,  Dr.  Helmuth,  was  read. 

On  motion,  Resolved,  That  the  President  be  commissioned  to  answer 


SEVENTY-FOURTH  CONVENTION,  1821.  587 

this  letter  as  he  thinks  best,  and  to  assure  the  Senior  of  the  love  and 
respect  of  the  Ministerium. 

licsolvt'd,  That  a  committee  be  named  carefully  to  investigate  the 
character  and  condition  of  the  Rodelheim  Legacy,  from  which  money 
has  hitherto  been  distributed  among  the  preachers,  and  to  report  on  it 
at  next  year's  Ministerial  Meeting. 

Resolved  That  Messrs.  Dr.  Kurtz  and  Endress  and  Pastor  Sch mucker 
constitute  this  committee. 

The  session  was  ended  with  prayer. 

Thursday,  3  p.m. 

The  session  was  opened  with  singing  and  prayer. 

The  preachers  to  whom  the  sermons  and  diaries  of  the  candidates  had 
been  given,  now  reported  on  their  character,  from  which  report  it  ap- 
peared that  all  their  licenses  could  be  renewed  without  hesitation. 

Schmick,  diary,  middling  ;  sermon,  middling. 

Albert,  diary,  middling  ;  sermon,  middling. 

Trumbauer,  diary,  very  neat  (sehr  schon)  ;  sermon,  good  and  edify- 
ing (schon). 

Ilaal,  diary,  very  mediocre. 

Schultz,  diary,  neat ;  sermon,  good. 

Kessler,  diary,  middling  ;  sermon,  good  (schon). 

Kriigler,  diary,  good  ;  sermon,  middling. 

Stein,  diary  and  sermon,  middling. 

Weiand,  diary,  middling. 

H  Kurtz,  sermon,  good. 

Demme,  sermon  and  diary,  excellent. 

Germann,  sermon  and  diary,  good. 

Resolved,  To  renew  all  the  unrenewed  licenses  of  the  candidates  who 
are  not  to  be  ordained. 

The  committee  appointed  to  examine  Messrs.  Reichert,  Schmidt  and 
Ilgen  reported  that  the  first  two  were  found  satisfactory,  and  that  they 
have  no  hesitation  to  propose  them  for  the  office  of  candidate  ;  that  in 
the  case  of  Mr.  Ilgen  they  also  found  good  gifts  (Anlage),  but  that 
his  own  interest  requires  that  his  studying  be  continued  for  some 
time. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Reichert  be  granted  a  candidate's  license  by  the 
officers,  as  soon  as  he  receives  congregations. 

Resolved,  To  give  Mr.  Schmidt  a  candidate's  license,  and  that  ho,  in 
connection  with  Candidate  Albert,  be  allowed  to  accept  the  following 
congregation? :  Set.  Johannis,  Bieberdamm,  Mosser's,  Hassinger's,  Longs- 
town,  Straubstown,  Gruber's  and  Sehnee's  Schoolhouse. 


538  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY. 

Resolved,  That  the  Ministerium,  out  of  love,  advise  Mr.  Ilgen  to  con- 
tinue his  studies  somewhat  longer. 

The  committee  which  examined  Messrs.  Meyer,  Abele  and  Eister  re. 
ported  that  the  first  two  geutleraen  were  found  able  to  fulfill  the  office 
of  candidate  ;  but  that  Mr.  Eister  does  not  yet  have  sufficient  knowledge 
to  enter  the  ministry. 

Resolved,  That  Mr.  Meyer  be  granted  a  license  to  perform  the  office 
of  candidate  in  the  congregations  in  York  County  which  desire  him. 

Resolved,  That  as  soon  as  Mr.  Abele  receives  congregations,  the  of- 
ficers of  the  Ministerium  are  authorized  to  grant  him  a  candidate's 
license. 

Resolved,  That  the  fatherly  advice  be  given  Mr.  Eister  to  continue 
his  studies. 

On  motion,  it  was  now  resolved  to  ordain  the  Candidates  Trumbauer, 
Haal,  Kessler,  Germann,  Schultz  and  Demme  this  evening  in  public 
meeting. 

Resolved,  That  Candidate  Ludwig  Walz,  of  Philadelphia,  shall  be 
ordained  at  the  next  Ministerial  Meeting  in  Germantown. 

Resolved,  To  dispense  with  the  other  customary  examinations  this 
year. 

Resolved,  That  for  this  year  two  traveling  preachers  shall  be  ap- 
pointed, who  shall  travel  not  more  than  six  months,  and  that  a  monthly 
salary  of  $33.33  be  granted  them. 

Resolved,  That  Pastors  Schmucker  and  Endress  be  commissioned  to 
choose  these  traveling  preachers  from  the  members  of  the  Ministerium, 
and  to  propose  to  them  the  plans  of  their  travels. 

Resolved,  That  Dr.  Kurtz  be  paid  his  traveling  expenses  from  Balti- 
more to  Hagerstown  as  delegate  to  the  General  Synod,  and  that  the 
Treasurer  be  authorized  to  pay  it. 

After  the  completion  of  business  a  hymn  was  sung,  thanks  were  given 
in  an  earnest  prayer  by  the  President  to  the  Father  of  Mercy  and  the 
faithful  Shepherd  of  His  flock,  for  all  the  love  and  assistance  experi- 
enced, and  supplication  was  made  for  the  further  blessing  of  God  upon 
pastors  and  congregations. 

This  evening  Doctor  Lochmann  preached  on  Rom.  8:14.  After  the 
sermon  the  candidates  who  were  appointed  to  the  office  of  deacon  were 
solemnly  ordained  thereto  by  the  officers  of  the  Ministerium  with  the 
laying  on  of  hands ;  the  newly-received  candidates  were  handed  their 
licenses  amid  earnest  admonitions  and  prayer,  and  the  congregation  was 
dismissed  with  hearty  thanksgiving  for  the  liberal  entertainment  of  the 
preachers,  and  with  the  prayer  for  all  blessing  on  them  from  the  Giver 
of  all  good. 


SEVENTY-FOURTH  CONVENTION,  1821.  589 

Blessed  be  God  and  the  Father  of  our  Lord,  Jesus  Christ,  for  the 
glorious  harmony  and  brotherly  love  which  reigned  among  us  ;  for  the 
new  encouragements  to  labor  unweariedly  for  the  welfare  of  immortal 
souls ;  for  all  grace  and  all  glad  hopes  with  which  He  has  cheered  us. 
To  Him  be  thanks  and  glory  forever.     Amen. 

That  the  preceding  was  done  in  the  Synodical  and  Ministerial  Meet- 
ing of  the  year  1821,  at  Chambersburg,  is  certified  by 

Henry  A.  Muhlenberg, 

Secretary  of  the  Ministerium. 


INDEX  I. 


TOPICS. 


AGENDE,  see  Liturgy. 
Archives,  169,  258,  264,  550. 
Authority,  Synodical,  22. 

"DAPTISM,  Administration  of:   Adult, 

-*— '    37  ;  Questions  in,  26. 

Beneficiary  Education,  355 sq.,  381, 387  sq., 

458. 
Bible,  Society,  397,  405 ;  Study  of,  53. 
Breach  of  Promise,  457. 

CATECHISM,  184. 
Catechists,  35,  74,  79,  84  sq.,  92  sq., 
247,  250  sq.,  264,  272,  280 sq.,  306, 338, 
361,  380,  397,  410,  418,  482,  443,  460. 
Catechization,  232. 

Charges  and  Trials,  11,  24,  34,  58,  75  sqq., 
86, 160, 173, 207,  227  sq..  231  sq.,  233  sq., 
238  sq.,  241  sq.,  246,  270  sq.,  300,  311, 
327  sq..  334,  336,  368  sq.,  371,  378  sq., 
405,  415, 419,  426,  431  sq.,  445, 456, 468, 
478,  516,  529,  555,  557,  572  sq.,  577  sq. 
Charter,  217,  222. 
Choral  Book,  see  Tune  Book. 
Church  Penance,  31,  190,  193. 
Churches,  Consecration  of,  7,  36  sqq.,  40, 

88  sqq.,  105  sqq.,  268. 
Collections,  119,  136,  220,  221,  234,   244, 

361,  468,  556. 
College,   Columbia    (University  in  New 
York),  195. 
"        Dickinson,  195. 
"        Franklin,  216,  218,  517,  537, 581. 
"        Uni versi  ty  of  Pennsylvania,  109. 
Collegium  Biblicum,  46. 
Communion  Holy,  Administration  of,  16- 
18,  55,  451  sq. 
"  Time  of,  34. 

Conferences,   174   sq.,    190,   258  sq.,  261, 
319  sq.,  324,  327,  341  sq.,  351,  367,  376, 
393,  400,  407,    414  sq.,   452,  455,  466, 
500,  502. 
Confessional  Basis,  7,  20  sq.,  22,  47,  106, 

132,  175,  188,  343. 
Confirmation,  183,  451. 
Constitution,  Congregational,  34,  45,  49, 
99. 
"  Synodical,  137  sq.,  154,  165 

sqq.,    183,  223,    241,   244, 
248-259,  263,  271. 

T)AY  OF  PRAYER,  42,  456. 
-L^     Deacons,  Ministerial,  414,  482,  565 
sqq. 


Death  of  Pastors,  137,  431,  476,  484,  501. 
Devotional  Books,  53  sq. 
Discipline,   26,  31,  34,  190,  193,  557 ;  see 
also  Charges. 

ENGLISH  in  Lutheran  Churches, 
24,  110,  279,  292,  342,  344,  352  sqq., 
356,  358  sqq.,  378,  379  sq.,  438,  465, 
479,  483,   488  sq.,  491,  500,   514  sq., 
574,  581  sq. 
Episcopalians,  64,    68  sq.,  72,  74,  97  sq., 
101  sq.,  108  sq.,  130,  178, 187,  21S,  359, 
479,  506,  513. 
Evangelisches  Magazin,  427  sq.,  430  sq., 
438,  441,  451,  455,  458,  465,  468,  490, 
492,  527  sq.,  536. 
Examinations,  18  sqq.,  25  sqq.,  56  sq.,  59, 
62,  65,  85,  115  sqq.,  118,  123,  126  sq., 
154,   168,174,   187  sq.,   193  sqq.,   215, 
222,  2S1,  284,  318,  329,  366,  371,  382 sq., 
384  sq.,  400,  405  sq.,  420  sq.,  433  sq., 
443  sq.,  467  sq.,  470  sq.,  482,  494,  502, 
506  sq.,  521  sq.,  538  sq.,  566,  586  sqq. 

TTiREY  BEQUEST,  4ff8  sq.,  476,  559. 
-1-       Orphan  Home,  559. 

(^ENERAL  SYNOD,  517  sq.,  522,  528, 
y-*     537  sq.,  551  sq.,  553  sq.,  556  sq.,  577; 

plan  for,  541-4. 
German,  483,  488, 491. 
Germany,  Condition  of,  193,  468. 
"  Pastors  from,  195,  343. 

Gifts,  80  sqq. 

HALLE,  collection  for,  468,  494. 
Hartwig  Bequest,  343,  345. 
History  of  Congregations  and  Synod,  82, 

400,  430. 
Hymn  Books,  18.3  sq.,  189  sq.,  195, 199  sq., 
222,  237,  469,  476,  490  sqq. 

TNDIAN  TROUBLES,  71-4,  93. 

TZ"INDERLEHRE,  51  sq.,233. 

T  AY  REPRESENTATION,  241,  244. 
-^    Legacies  to  Synod,  144  sq.,  152,  155, 
193,  196,  202  sq.,  208  sq.,  217,  239, 
273,  281,  286. 
Licentiates,  158,  168, 174,  223,  227  sq.,  231, 
233,  238,  241,  250  sq.,  259,  264,  266, 
272  sq.,  280  sq.,  293  sqq.,  301  sq.,  306, 
319,  321,  361,  394,  etc. 

590 


INDEX  I. 


591 


Litany,  15,  4tl,  184. 

Liturgy,  11,  13-18,  08  sq.,  109,  175,  183, 

200,  209,  210,  257,  477,  483,  536  sq. 
Luther,  13G,  193,  343,  427,  441. 

Ma  KRIAGE  AND  DIVORCE,  31. 
Maryland  and  Virginia,  Synod  of, 
571,  574  sq. 
Methodists,  74, 80, 190 ;  see  also  Whitefield. 
Middletown  Orphan  House,  559. 
Ministerial  Sessions,  244,  256,  264  sq.,  and 

under  each  Convention. 
Ministerial  Support,  367. 
Missions,  Foreign,  28,  103. 

"  Home;  see  Traveling  Preachers. 
Moravians,  9.  47,  50  sq.,  76  sqq.,  218,  606. 
Mosheiin  Society,  390. 

NEW  YORK   MINISTERIUM,   210, 
276,  489,  528  sq.,  549,  573. 
North  Carolina,  Appeal  from,  378. 

"  "  History  of   Church    in, 

"  "  Synod,  469  sqq.,  528. 

Nothtaufe,  240. 

OATHS,  LEGAL,  abuse  of,  178. 
Ohio  Synod,  552  Bq. 
Ordination,  Significance  and  value  of,  6, 

471,  482,  4: '4. 

Ordinat'ons,  8  sq.,  and  under  each  Con- 
vention. 

Organization,  Purpose  of,  3,  44  sq.,  49  sq., 
257. 

Orphans,  Care  of,  31,  80,  145. 
"        Ilnrae,  145,  559. 

Oversight,  Office  of,  see  Pastors,  and  Presi- 
dent. 

PARISH  BOUNDARIES,  201,  214  sq., 
477. 
Parishes,  Large,  515  sq. 
Parochial     Reports,  63  sq.,  71,   196,  and 

under  each  Convention  thereafter. 
Pastoral  Letter,  414  sq.,  427. 
Pastors,  College  of,  21  sq. 

Independent,  11,  94,  209. 
"        Oversight  of,  9,  30,  49,  56, 64,  111 

sqq.,  122  sq.,  131  sq.,  133  sqq. 
"        Superannuated,  Home,  41,  145. 
Prayer  Book,  184 
Preaching,  Methods  of,  59. 
Preparatory  Service,  10,  25. 
President,  56,  165  sq.,  248  sq. 
rreshvterians,  74,  109,  506,  579. 
Publications,  193,  380,  400. 


R 


ATIONALI9M,  344,  377. 
Records,  Congregational,  264. 


Reformation,  Jubilee  of  (1817),  490,  503, 

506. 
Reformed,  8,  98,  133,  217  sq.,  300,  437, 

469,  606,  514,  537,  549,  552  sq.,  559, 

501),  57 1,576,  580. 
Religious  Interest,  90,  405. 

QABBATH  BREAKING,  217. 

^    Schools,  Care  of,  157, 160. 

Schools,  Condition  of,  10  sq.,  31,  39,  62  sq., 

279,  283  sqq.,  291  sq.,  451. 
Schools,  Examinations,  06. 
"        German,  475,  478. 
"         Public,  283  sq. 
Seal  of  Synod,  239,  258. 
Secret  Societies,  160,  292. 
Seminary,  Theological,  107,  119,  141,  143 

sq.,  145,  344,  559.' 
Seminary,     Theological,      Lutheran-Re- 

formed,513  sq.,  516  sq.,  559. 
Senior,  248,  318. 
Slanders,  190. 
Slaverv,  136. 
Standing  Rules,  241. 
Susquehanna,  Synod  west  of,  551,  554. 
Swedes,   3,  6,  7, "9,  38,  42,  45  sqq.,  55  sq., 

59  sqq.,  65,  68  sqq.,  94,  138. 
Symbolical  Books,  see  Confessional  Basis. 

TAXES,  391. 
Theological  Instructors,  345,  356,  360, 
565. 

Theological  Seminary,  see  Seminary,  The- 
ological. 

Traveling  Preachers,  357,  370  sq.,  380  sq., 
387  sqq.,  390, 407  sq.,  421,  420,  428,  442, 
454,  406  sq.,  409,  470,  479,  4S1,  489, 
502  sq.,  507,  537,  569,  573,  588. 

Treasurer,  345,  356,  302  sqq.,  399,  and 
under  each  convention. 

Tune  Book,  270,  430. 

UNION  CHURCHES,  190. 
"United   Congregations,"   3,  8,  20 
sqq.,  26,  33,  42,  86,  92,  100,  120,  140, 
169,  183,  254,  279. 
"United  Ministers"  (Pastors,  Preachers!, 

34,  38,  40,  43,  123,  156,  170,  264. 
"United  Ministerium,"  58,  79,  84,94,  134, 
161,  199,  201. 

WAR,  149,  151. 
Wedding  Banquets,  55  sq. 
West  Indies,  360  sq. 

"     Pennsylvania  Synod;   see  Susque- 
hanna. 
Widows,   Pastors',  191,  193,  209,   255,  270, 
283,  290,  381,  388,  438,458,469,476, 
503. 


INDEX  II. 


PASTOES, 


Including  Clergymen  of  Other  Denominations,  and  Applicants  for 

the  Ministry. 


ABELE,  J.  F.,  578  sqq.,  586,  588. 
Acrelius,  Israel,  33,  36  sqq.,  42  sqq. 
Ahl,  231  sq.,  241. 
Alms,  Adam,  361. 

Albert,  Jacob,  564  sqq.,  578,  584,  587. 
Alden,  Timothy,  501. 
Almes,  Andreas,  327,  329,  337,  339,  441  sq. 
Andrea,  J.  C,  11,  25,  30. 

BACHY  (BACKY,  BECKY),  J.HEIN- 
RICH,  479, 483, 489, 492, 494  sq.,  500, 
506,  555. 

Bachy  (Becky),  Peter,  555. 

Bager,  Georg,  68  sq.,  71,  75,94,  129  sq., 
139,  147,  156,  167,  176,  181,  186,  214. 

Baker  (Becker),  J.  C,  442,  447,  451,  462, 
464,  486,  493,  495,  498,  506  sq.,  509 
sq.,  519,  525,  535,  547,  562  sq.,  565,  569 
sq.,  572,  576,  581,  583,  585  sq. 

Beates  (Batis,  Baetis,  Betis,  Petis),  Wil- 
helrn,  397,  406,  410,  414  sqq.,  419  sq., 
423,  426,  430,  432  sq.,  436,  438  sqq., 
443,  447,  450,  462,  464,  493  sqq.,  498, 
504,  519,  546,  549,  562,  564  sq.,  570, 
581,  583,  585  sq. 

Beil,  Balthasar,  178  sq.,  182,  184. 

Bentz  (Bence,  Bens,  Pens),  Peter,  246  sq., 
264  sqq.,  269,  271  sqq.,  276,  280,  282, 
284  sqq.,  290,  295,  298,  304  sq.,  309  sq., 
313,  318,  324. 

Berlin,  Olaf,  see  Parlin. 

Borell,  Andr.,  45,  58  sqq.,  71. 

Braun,  Pbilip,  494  sq.,  502,  520. 

Braunsius  (Braun),  J.  E.  L.,  453,  459 sq., 
462,  464,  474,  481,  527. 

Brechel,  78  sq. 

Brunnholtz,  Peter,  5  sqq.,  9  sq.,  12,  19,  24 
sqq.,  32  sqq.,  42,  80  sq. 

Bryzelius,  P.  D.,  45,  47  sq.,  57  sqq.,  63,  65, 
71,  84,  98. 

Butler  (Buttler),  J.  G.,  182  sq.,  187,214 
sq.,  327,  329  sq.,  332,  335,  337,  341, 343, 
346,  350,  355,  357,  361,  364  sq.,  370, 
374,  377,  386,  392,  397,  399,  404,  410, 
413,  423,  425,  429,  436,  440,  446,  450, 
464,  469,  473,  480,  492,  506. 

592 


/CARPENTER  (ZIMMERMAN\  WIL- 
v>     HELM,  216,  220,  222  sq.,  226,  22S, 
231,  233,  237,  239,  241  sq.,  245,  247, 
260,  264,  268,  271,  276,  28*2,  285,  290, 
292,  304  sq.,  308,  310,  314,  324,  331, 
335,  338,  350,  365,  369,  375,  396,  399, 
402,  406  sq.,  410,  413,  423,  429,  436, 
447,  465,  488,  492,  518,  529,  539,  547, 
561,  564,  570,  574,  582. 
Colson,  O.  W.,  423,  425,  430,  432  sqq.,  436, 
440,  443,  447,  451,  462,  464  sq.,  474, 
481,  484,  486,  489  sq.,  493,  501. 
Cook,  479,  483. 

Cramer  (Kramer),  J.  P.  F.,  368,  370  sqq., 
374,  377,  382  sqq.,  386,  390  sqq.,  394, 
397,404,  406  sq.,  410,412,  415, 419  sq., 
423,  425  sq.,  430, 433, 438,  451, 460, 479, 
494  sq.,  498,  505,  510,  520,  525,  535, 
539  sq.,  550,  578. 
Cruse'  (Crusy,  Krusy),  C.  F.,  494  sq.,  520, 
525,  527,  535,  545,  549,  562  sq.,  566, 
570,  574,  584. 

DEMME,  CARL  R.,  533,  536,  538  sqq., 
547,  556,  563  sq.,  567,  570,  572,  576, 
581,  584  sq.,  587  sq. 

Denney,  579. 

Dickhand,  361. 

Dill  (Diehl),  J.  C,  238  sq.,  243,  245  sq., 
261  sq.,  264  sqq.,  269  sqq.,  276,  280, 
283,  302,  304  sq.,  309,  314,  323,  326, 
328  sqq.,  333,  340,  342  sq.,  350,  364, 
374,  377,  385,  392,  398,  403,  409,  413, 
420,  422,  425,  428,  431  sq.,  435,  439, 
443,  445  sq.,  449,  473,  478,  484,  489, 
518. 

Doering  (Doring,  Dering),  462,  464,  470, 
481,  498,  505,  507,  519,  535,  546,  562, 
564  sq.,  570,  578,  583,  585. 

Ducbe,  Jacob,  64,  69,  72,  74,  109. 

Dunn,  Daniel,  442  sq.,  448,  453,  498. 

EISTER,  GEORGE,  576,  586,  588. 
Ellison,  G.  F.,  265  sq.,  269,  271  sqq., 
276,  278,  280,  283. 
Enderlein  (Enderle,  Enterline),  J.  M.,  121, 


ISDEX  II. 


593 


123,  139,  150,  154  sqq.,  170,  181  sqq., 

186,  li)4,  214  sq.,  231,  283,  261,  265sq. 

Endress  (Endres,  Enders),  Christian,  302, 

313,  317,  320,  322  sq.,  326,  328  sqq., 

332,  335,  333,  340,  342,  349,  35  I,  356, 
301,  304  sq.,  369,  371,  373  sq.,  370  sq., 
:;su,  :;s3,  385,  392,  394,  390,  398  Bqq., 
403,  400  sqq.,  413,  416,  419  sq.,  423, 
425  sq.,  429,  431  sq.,  434  sq.,  439,  443, 
44.".  sq.,  A  19  sq.,  454,  485,  487,  492, 496, 
.  604,  5n7  sqq.,  511,  513,  515, 517  sq. 
523  sM.,  527  sq.,  534,  537  sq.,  545,  503, 
569,  571.  575,  581  sq.,  585  sqq. 

Engel,  Friedrich,  397,  405  sqq.,  410,  414, 
418  sqq.,  423,  4'-':.,  430,  432  sq 
440,  443  sq.,  447,  450,  455,  402,  404, 
474,  481,  486,  489,  493  sqq.,  498,  504, 
510,  519,  525,  535,  539,  540,  549,  502, 
564  sqq.,  570,  575,  585. 

Engelland,  J.  T.,  43. 

Ernst,  J.  Fredrick,  157  sqq.,  168, 176 sqq., 
181  sq.,  184, 186,  188  sqo  ,  195  sq.,  199, 
201  sq.,  207,  211  sq.,  2!..  216,  220,  225, 
229  sqq.,  236,  238  sq.,  244,  261,  265, 
268,  271,  270,  292,  337,  349,  352,  354. 

Ernst,  Wilhelm  G.,  397,  407,  414,  420, 423, 
430,  432  sqq.,  436,  439  sq.,  443  sq.,  447, 
451,  462,  404,  474,  481,  483,  486,  493 
Bqq.,  498,  504sq.,  510,  510,  51S,  525, 
527,  529,  533  sq.,  537  sq.,  546,  549,  559, 
561,  564  sq.,  509,  572,  576,  581,  583, 
585  sq. 

Espijj  (E.spich),  Christian,  240,  214,  246, 
261,  264  sqq.,  209  sqq.,  273,276,  278 
sqq.,  283,  300. 

FABRICIUS,  S.  A.,  208. 
Filbert,  454,  459  sq.,  462,  464,  467, 
474,  481,  480,  493,  495,  498,  505, 507, 
510,  519,  525,  535,  540,  549,  502,  504 
sq.,  570, 572,  581,  5S3,  585. 
Finley,  Dr.,  74. 
Flohr  (Flora,  Flour),  G.  D.,  306,  309  sq., 

314,  318,  324,  326,  332,  335,  337  sqq., 
341,  351,  355,  303,  365,  309,  370,  386, 
393,  398,  403,  411  sqq.,  423,  425,  429, 
435,  439,  443,  448,  450,  453,  477,  480, 
492,  5(14,518,  528,534,  547,  551  sq., 
561,  504,  570,  583. 

Foltz  (Folx,  Fols,  Vols),  Joh.,  287,  29/, 
299,  309  sqq.,  323,  320,  329  sq.,  350 
sq.,  355,  305,  369,  386,  398. 

Foltz,  Ser...  311,  314,  333,  337  sq. 

Forster  (Foster),  Willi.,  298,  301  sq.,  309 
pq.,  314,  317,  320,  323,  320,  328  sqq., 
832,  335,  340,  349,  364,  :J.57,  305,  309 
sq.,  403,  410,  413,  423,  425, 

429,  431  sq.,  430,  438  sq.,  445,447,450, 
452. 

Frantz,  154,  157,  160  sq.,  177  Bqq. 

Fredrici  (Friedrioi),  J.  A.,  104  sq.,  107, 
121  sq.,  125  sq.,  130,  139,  141,  155  sq., 
168,  177  sqq.,  204,  211. 

Fried,  71. 

GEISSENHAINEB      (GETSENHEI- 
MEB.)  F.  W.,  272  §q.,  275,  278  sqq., 


282,  285,  290,  292  sqq.,  297,  299,  302 
sq.,  305  sq.,  313,317,322,  320,331, 
335,  338,  340  sqq.,  345,  349,  353  sqq., 

373,  .".77  .sq.,  382  sq.,  386,  392,  398, 
400,  410,  412  sq.,  117,  420,  422,  435, 
439  sq.,  443  sq.,  447,  453,  477,  485, 
489,  492,  5(»7,  509,  513,  516,  517  sq., 
531,  545,  549  sq.,  557  sq.,  561,  563, 
565,  569,  672 sq.,  570,  581  sq.,  ">85sq. 

Geissenhaim-r,  F.W.,  Jr.,  507,  610,  520 sq., 
526,  531,  535,  547,  561,  503  sq.,  500  sq., 
570,  572,  581,  584  sq. 

Geissenhainer,  II.  A.,  295, 298, 304 sq., 309, 
313,  317,  320,  323  sq.,  326,  328,  332, 
335,  337,  340,  346  sq.,  350,  354,  374, 
377,  380,  398,  403,  410,  413,  423,  425, 
429,  431  sq.,  430,  443,  445  sq.,  449  sq., 
461,  473,  485,  492,  497,  504,  509,  518, 
545,  558,  501,  564,  570,  572, 

German,  Wilhelm,  510,  520  sqq.,  520,  531, 
534sq.,  547,  550,  5G3sq.,  570,  572,  579, 
681,  584  sq.,  587  sq. 

Gernsheim,  154. 

Gerock,  J.  C,  41,  44  sqq.,  48,  57,  69  sqq., 
04  sq.,  68  sq.,  73,  75  sq.,  78  sqq.,  99, 
130,  132,  139,  143. 

Goeranson,  Andreas,  129,  137,  139. 

Goering  (Gohring),  Jacob,  150  sqq.,  154, 
150  sq.,  108,  170  sq.,  181,  186,  1  S3, 191, 
193  sqq.,  198  sqq.,  202,  204,  207,  211 
sqq.,  215,  219,  224  sq.,  231,  234,  237, 
245,  200,  262  sq.,  265,  268,  270,  276, 
2S2,  284sq.,  287,  289  sqq.,  296  sq.,  302 
sq.,  306,  309,  313,  317,  320,  324 sq.,  331, 
334  sq.,  340  sqq.,  348  sq.,  351,  353  sq., 
356,  361,  365,  369,  371  sqq.,  375  sq. 

Goeseman,  Joh.,  532,  539. 

Graeber  (Graber,  Kraber,  Kraeber,  Kre- 
ber),  Georg,  272  sq.,  281,  283  sqq.,  289, 
292,  297,299,  309  sq.,  314,  324,  326, 
329,  332,  335,  337,  343  sq.,  346  sq.,  351 
sq.,  356,  365,  369,  374,  377.  386,  396, 
399,  403,  410,  412  sq.,  415,  423,  436, 
439,  443,  446,  449  sq.,  473,  480,  497, 
504.  606,  509,  518,  533,  546  sq.,  501, 
50?,  569,  572,  582,  585. 

Graeber,  H.,  512,  520,  522,  526,  547,  563. 

Graf,  71,  156,  234. 

Grob  (Grobp,  Gropp),  Joh.,  272  sq.,  281, 
283,  285  sqq.,  290  sqq.,  297,  299  sq., 
304  sq.,  309  sq.,  314,  320,  323,  320  sq., 
329,  332,  335,  337  sq.,  341,  350,  354, 
365,874,  376  sqq.,  2-  !,  405, 

410,  413,  423,  430,  439,  443,  448,  473, 
4S0,  483,  497,  504,  500,  518,  524,  527, 
533  sq.,  547,  501,  564,  570, 

HAAL  (HALL,  HAL),  PETER,  502, 
505,  507,  510,  520,  525,  635,  5  17,  551, 
558,  562  sq.,  507,  570,  672,  5M,  584 
sq.,  587  sq. 
Haas,  Friedrich,  347,  350,   355,  301,  366, 
.  370,  372,  371,  377,  382  sq.,  386, 
388,393,397,  400 sq.,  404,  406 sq., 410, 
412,  414,  419  sq.,  421  sq.,  430,  410,  443 
sq.,  447,  450,  474,  498,504,  510,  515, 
618,  525,  534,  547,  501,  504,  5S3. 


594 


INDEX  II. 


Handschuh,  J.  F.,  4  sqq.,  12,  19,  24  sqq., 
32  sqq.,  39  sq.,  42,  45,  43  sq.,  56  sq., 
69  sqq.,  65,  67  sqq.,  71,  74  sqq.,  81  sq., 
92  sq.,  203,  205. 

Hartwig  (Harting,  181 ;  Hartung,  199),  J. 
G.,  3,  5  sqq.,  12,  19,  33  sq.",  93,  139, 
142,  155  sq.,  177,  201. 

Hausihl,  B.  M.,  41,  45  sq.,  48,  57,  60  sq., 
64,  66,  68  sq.,  71,  75  sq. 

Hecht,  Anton,  199  sqq.,  210,  215. 

Hecht,  J.  P.,  388,  397,  4i)0,  406,  410,  412, 
414,  419  sq.,  423,  430,  432,  436,  410, 
443,  447,  449  sq.,  462,  474,  4S0,  483, 
486,  492  sqq.,  498,  502,  504  sq.,  510, 
513,  518,  525,  527,  534,  536,  538,  546, 
561,  563,  569,  572,  576,  581,  583,  585. 

Hegsjeblad,  69,  71,  82. 

Hehl,  J.  G.,  214  sq.,  220  sq.,  273,  281. 

Heini,  Georg,  402,  410,  414,  418  sq.,  423, 
430,  432  sq.,  436,  440,  443,  447,  450, 

455,  462,  464,  466,  474,  477,  479,  481. 
486,  493  sqq.,  497,504,  510,519,  535, 
546,  555,  562,  564,  570,  572,  5S1,  583, 
585. 

Heim,  Wilkelm,  470  sq.,  474,  481,  486, 483, 
493,  498,  502,  505,  519,  525,  535,  540, 
546,  555,  559,  562,  570,  572,  581,  583, 
585. 

Heine,  Heinrich,  381  sq.,  386,  392, 394  sq., 
397,  399  sq.,  405  sq.,  409  sq.,  412,  414, 
419  sq.,  423,  430,  432  sq.;  436,  440,  443 
sq.,  447,  450,  461,  464,  474,  480,  4S6sq., 
493,  498,  504,  507,  510,  512,  516,  518, 
578  sq. 

Heintzelman,  J.  D.  M.,  35  sq.,  132. 

Helmuth,  J.  H.  C,  87,  104  sq.,  107  sq., 
112  sq.,  128,  138  sqq.,  149  sqq.,  154, 
156,  158,168,  176  sqq.,  181,  183  sqq., 
189,  191  sqq.,  195,  197  sq.,  200,  202 
sqq.,  206  sqq.,  211  sqq.,  217  sqq., 
220,  222,  225  sqq.,  230,  232,  234  sqq., 
239,  241  sqq.,  245  sqq.,  260,  263,  265, 
268,  270,  273,  275  sqq.,  279  sq.,  282 
sqq.,  293,  295,  297,  301,  303,  306,  309 
sq.,  313,  316  sq.,  322,  325,  329  sqq., 
335  sq.,  338  sq.,  343  sq.,  351,  354,  356, 
361  sq.,  365,  371  sqq.,  376,  379 sq.,  382, 
335,  392,  394,  397,  400,  405  sqq.,  409, 
412  sq.,  415  sq.,  422,  427  sqq.,  432, 434, 
438  sq.,  446,  450,  458,  461,  463,  468, 
470,  473,  476,  480,  484  sq.,  492,  496, 
518,  521,  528  sq.,  539,547,  550,  561, 
564,  570,  582,  586. 

Hemping,  I.  N.,  423,  442  sq.,  447,  451,  453, 

456,  462,  464,  474,  480  sq.,  480,  493 
sqq.,  498,  504,  510,  519,  525,  527,  532, 
535,  546,  549,  555,  561,  564  sq.,  670, 
575,  581,  583,  585. 

Hendel,  553. 

Hemlrich.D..  154. 

Heuki'l  illinkel,  Hinckle),  Paul,  187  sq., 
193,  199,  201,  214,  216,  223,  226  sq., 
231,  233  sq..  243,  246  sq.,260,  264,  269, 
276,  282,  290,  292,  297,  299,  301,  308, 
314,  319,  333,  350,  365,  370,  373,  377, 
380  sq.,  386,  389  sq.,  396,  402,  407, 
409,  413,  421,  425  sq.,  428  sq.,  436  sq., 


442  sq.,  447,  452,  458,  466,  473,  476. 
478,  483,  488,  518,  534,  547,  561,  564, 
570,  582. 

Henkel  (Hinkel),  232  sq. 

Henop,  150. 

Herbst,  F.,  442,  447,  451,  455,  462,  464, 
474,  481,  486,  493  sqq.,  498,  504,  510, 
519,  525,  533,  535,  540,  546,  562,  564 
sq.,  570,  575,  581,  5S3,  585. 

Herbst,  Job.,  281,  287,  290,  292,  295,  29S, 
304  sqq.,  309  sq.,  314,  317,  319,  323, 
326,  328,  332,  335  sqq.,  341,  344,  350, 
355,  357,  361,  365,  369,  374,  377,  380 
sq.,  385,  392,  397,  399,  403,  409,  413, 
420,  422,  425,  429,  432,  436,  439,  443, 
446,  450,  461,  473,  480,  485,  492,  497, 
504,  509,  518,  525,  527,  534,  546,  549, 

561,  563,  570,  583,  586. 

Heyer,  C.  F.,  505  sq.,  510,  520,  530,  535, 

546,  549,  558,  562  sqq.,  566,  570,  573, 

580  sqq.,  584. 
Hoffman,  571,  580. 
Hofmeister,   Heinrich    513  sq.,  517,  521, 

559. 
Hornell,  Nikolaus,  68  sq.,  71,  73,  79,  93. 
Huet  (Hyet),441  sq.,  448,  451,454,464, 

519. 
Hurt,  176. 

TDEN,  H.  C,  382. 

J-  Ugen  (Hlgen),  L.  A.  W.,  311,  314, 
323,  329,  341  sq.,'n346  sq.,  351,  357,  364, 
367,  374,  376  sq.,  3S6,  392,  394,  398, 
403,  407,  411  sqq.,  423,  425,  436,  448, 
450,  453,  464,  485,  487,  492,  518,  547, 
550,  561,  561,  570,  580,  583,  585. 

Ilgen,  Wilbelm,  586  sqq. 

Ingliss,  Charles,  72,  74. 

TAEGER,  GOTTLIEB  F.,  532, 538  sqq., 
"  547,  558,  563  sqq.,  571,  577,  584  sq. 
Jaeger,  J.  C,  246  sq.,  262,  264  sqq.,  269, 
271  sqq.,  275,  277,  279  sq.,  282,  285, 
293  sq!,  297, 299,  303,  305  sq.,  308,  310, 
312  sq.,  317,  322,  326,  328,  340,  342 
sq.,  347,  349,  354,  365,  369,  372,  377, 

385,  392,  394,  396,  406,  410,  412  sq., 
415,  422,  425,  429,  431  sq.,  435,  439, 
443,  445,  449  sq.,  456,  461,  463,  473, 
485,  492,  497,  503,  505,  507,  509,  514, 
518,  520,  524,  527,  529,  534,  540,  544 
sq.,  549,  563,  568  sq.,  572,  576,  582. 

Jaeger,   W.,  495,  507,  522,  531,  547,  549, 

562,  564,  566,  570,  574,  5S4,  586. 
Jasinsky  (Jacinski,  Jacinsky),  F.  W., 

226,  246,  300,  306  sq.,  309  sq.,  313  sq., 
316  sqq.,  320,  323,  325  sqq.,  329,  332 
sq.,  335,  337,  340,  343,  340  sq.,  349  sq., 
354,  365,  368  sq.,  374,  377  sqq.,  383, 

386,  392,  398,  403,  409,  413,  416,  420, 
423,  425,  429,  431  sq.,  436,  440,  446, 
419,  456,  464,  473,  480. 

Jung,  J.  D.,  231,  233  sq.,  236  sq.,  241  pq., 
260,  264  sq.,  269,  276,  282,  285,  289, 
292  sq.,  298,  303,  305,  308,  310  sqq., 
314,  322,  324,  326. 

Jung  (Young),  J.  G.,  87  sq.,  104  sq.,  107, 


INDEX  IT. 


595 


IIP,  121  sq.,  126,  130,  13d,  147,  156, 
168,  17ii  S(|.,  17!t  s.|(i.,  199  s<|(j.,  204, 
812  sqq.,  217,  230  sqq.,  237,  289,  261. 

KELLER,  BENJ.,  483,  486,  403,  498, 
502, 505,  510,  519,  525, 527, 535,  540, 

546,  562  sq.,  560  sq.,  572,  581,  583, 
5S5. 

Kessler  (Kerzler),  David,  361,366,  371, 
386,  388,  390  sq.,  393,  397,  405,  410, 
412,  414,  416,  420,  424,  436,  440,  443, 
448,  464,  474,  480,  483,  510,  519,  535, 

547,  562  sq.,  57o,  572,  584  sq. 
Kessler,    Peter,   505,   507,   510,  520,  525, 

635,  547,  658,  562  sq.,  567,  570,  578, 
581,  584,  587  sq. 

Kirchner,  J.  ('.,  9 1. 

King,  G.  3.,  101  sq.,  136. 

Knierult  C.  A.,  280,  295. 

Kohler  (Kehler),  505  sq.,  510,  520,526, 
533,  535,  547,  562,  564,  571,  584. 

Knoske  (Knoskv),  Joh.,  336  sq.,341,  350, 
353,  355,  357,  363,  366,  370  sq.,  374, 
377,  382  sq.,  386,  392  sqq.,  397,  400, 
404  sqq.,  410,  414,  419  sq.,  423,425, 
429,  432,  436,  440,  442,  445,  447,  450, 
461,  464,  480,  485,  492  sq.,  497,  504 
sq.,  507,  518,  528,  534,  545  sq.,  549, 
554,  561,  563,  565,  569,  572,  576,  580 
sq.,  583,  585. 

Kramer,  J.  P.  F.,  see  Cramer. 

Krautli  (Kraut),  C.  Philip,  538  sqq.,  547, 
656,  563  sq.,  567,  571,  584. 

Kriigler,  Jacob,  528, 533,538  sqq.,  5 17.  553 
sq.,  563  sq.,  567,  569  sq.,  572, 579,  581, 
5S4  sq.,  587. 

Krug,  Andreas,  72,  84,  87  sqq.,  103  sqq., 
113,  117,  119,  121  sq.,124sq.,127,  129, 
134  sq.,  139,  147,  150,  156,  167,  176 
sq.,  181,  183,  186,  188,  192  sq.,  199, 
204,  206  sq.,  211,  213,  216,  219,221, 
226,  229  sq.,  232,  236,  239  sq.,  243  sq., 
261  sq.,  269,  271,  275,  277,  279,  287. 

Kruse,  C.  F.,  see  Cruse. 

Kiilil,  221. 

Kuhn,  Daniel.  88  sq.,  100,  104  ?qq.,  107, 
121  sq.,  126. 

Kunze,  J.  C,  121,  129  sq.,  135,  138  sq., 
141,  143,  146,  152  sqq.,  166,  158  sq., 
161,  167,  176  sq.,180  sq.,  183  sq.,  186, 
189  sqq.,  202  sq.,  205  sqq.,  211  sq., 
214  sq.,  219  sq.,  222,  226,  228,  230, 
234,236,  239  sqq.,  244.  260,  263,  265, 
269,  275,  283,  290,  292,  312  sq.,  343, 
350,  375,  377. 

Kurtz,  Benj.,  483,  486,  493,  498,  505,  510, 
619,525,527,  530,  535,  540,  546,550, 
6  10,  562sq.J  5708qq.,674J  580  (?),581, 
583. 

Kurtz,  ITeinrioh,  538  sq.,  647,  558,  5«3 
sqq.,  570,  679,681,  684  sq. 

Kurtz,  H.  A.,  629  sq.,  536,  540,  547,  563 
sq.,  567,  576,  684,  686. 

Kurtz  J.  D.,  168,  194,  196,  19S  sqq.,  204, 
206  sq..  210  sq.,  214,  220,  231,  237, 
213,  260,  262  sq.,  265,  27  . 
289,  291  sq.,  303,  308,  311,  313,  317. 


322,  324  sq.,  331,  335,  338,  349,  353 
sqq.,  362,  365,  373,  375,  377,  385,  387, 
392,  395  sq.,  399,  402,  408  sq.,  412, 
416  sq.,  419  sq.,  422,  425  sq..  429,  431 
sq.,  435,  437,  439,  447,  450  eq.,  46« 
sq.,  463,  472  sq.,  475,  483,  485,  489, 
492,  497,  503,  507  sqq.,  518,  522,  524, 
528,  534,  538,  540,  545,  549,  553,  557, 
561,  563,  565,  569,  571  sqq.,  581  sq., 
586  sqq. 

Kurtz,  J.  N.,  3  sqq.,  10  sqq.,  18  sqq.,  24 
sqq.,  33,  36  sq.,  45.  48,  56  sq.,  60  sqq., 
68  sqq.,  81  sq.,  87  sqq.,  94,  99,  104 
sqq.,  108,  111,  113  sq.,  117,  129,  137 
sqq.,  144,  146,  148  sqq.,  154  sqq.,  160 
sq.,  167,  176,  178,  181,  186,  188,  192, 
194  sq.,  197,  199  sq..  204,  208  sqq., 
216  sq.,  219  sq.,  231,  237,  243,  261  sq., 
267. 

Kurtz,  Wilhelm,  45,  48,  56  sqq.,  60  sqq., 
66,  69  sqq.,  73,  75,  84,  87  sq.,  103  sqq., 
113,  117.  119,  121,  127,  1-9,  135,  139 
sqq.,  147,  149  sq.,  154  sqq.,  167,177, 
181,  186,  192,  194,  198,  200,  202,  204, 
207,  211  sqq.,  215,  219,  225  sq.,  230, 
233,  237,  243  245,  2fil,  267  sq.,  276, 
283,  290  sq.,  297  sq.,  300,  304,  307. 

T  AMPRECHT,  495. 

-L'  Lange  (Lang),  J.  F.  W.,  280  sq.,  283, 
285  sq.,  290,  292,  298  sq.,  304,  309  sq., 
314,  318,  320,  324,  335,  341,  351,  355, 
365.370,386,  393,  398,  404,  411  sq., 
414,  419,  423,  433,  438,  441. 

Langen,  Nicolaus,  115. 

Lehman,  Daniel,  152,  154  sqq.,  160,  168, 
176  sq.,  181,  186,  193,  195  sq.,  198  sq., 
201  sq.,  204,  207,  211,  214  sqq.,  220 
sq..  225,  236,  238  sq.,  244,  260,  263, 
268,  271,  274  sqq.,  279,  283,  285,  297, 
303,  309,  313,  317,  322,  325,  328  sq., 
341,  349,  354,  375,  385,  392,  394,  397, 
402,  410,  413,  553. 

Liebich,  Georg,  360. 

Leist,  Jacob,  425,  432  sq.,  439,  442,  448, 
452,  481,  505,  519. 

Lenz,  A.  W.,  240. 

Leps  (Lepps),  J.  C,  156,  168,  176,  186, 
216,  219,  230. 

Lochman,  Georg,  272  sq.,  278  sqq.,  282 
sq.,  285,  289,  291  sq.,  297,  299  sq.,  303, 
305,308,  310,  312  sq.,  317,  322,  326, 
328,  331,  334  sq.,  33,\  340,  342,345, 
347,349,  352,  354,  361  sq.,  365,371, 
373,  377  sq.,  382,  385,  392,  394,  396, 
402,405  sqq.,  409,  412  sq.,  415,  417 
sqq.,  422,  425,  427,  429,  431  sq.,  435, 
17  sqq.,  441,  444  sqq.,  449  sq.,  457, 
460  sq.,  463  sq.,  469,  472  sq.,  475  sq., 
478,  480,  483,  486,  4S7,  492,  497,  4<>!>, 
.',1)7,  509,  511,  517  sq.,  622,  524,  527 
sq.,  530,  534,  536  sqq.,  545,  549,557, 
gqq.,  563,  565,  669,  672  sq.,  581 
sq.,  585  sq.,  588. 

Ltttge,  A.  U.,  199,  201,221  sq.,  226,228, 
237,  289,  211.  261,  266  sq.,  269,271 
sqq.,  278,  284,  288,295,  302,  319. 


596 


INDEX  II. 


MACE,  231,  280. 
Mackard,  293. 

Mackenhaupt,  32s,  427. 

Mattes,  P.  II.,  370,  382  sq. 

Mau  (Marr,  Maw)  Samuel,  276,  452,  460, 
519. 

Heendsen  (Mundsen),W.,  409  sq.,412,  414, 
416,  419  sqq.,  423,  430,  432  sq.,  436, 
440,  443,  447,  450,  462,  464,  481,  486, 
493  sqq.,  498,  502,  504,  510,  515  sq., 
519,525,535,  516,  549,  562,  564  sq., 
570,  583,  5S5. 

Melsheimer  (Melzheiraer),  F.  V.,  156  sq., 
■  168,  176,  178,  199  sqq.,  204,  207,  209, 
211, 214,  216  sq.,  220,  223  sqq.,  229  sqq., 
234,  237,  239,  243,  261,  268  sq.,  275, 
277,  279,  282,  287,  289,  291,  295,  298 
sq.,  303,  305,  308,  310  sq.,  314,  318, 
322,  326,  329,  331,  335  sq.,  338,  345, 
349,  353  sq.,  365,  369, 373,  377,  382  sq., 
385,  392,  396,  399,  402,  406,  410,  413, 
423,  425(?),  429,  433,  435,  439,  443 
sqq.,  447,  468,  476. 

Melsheimer,  J.  F.,  361,  366  sq.,  371,  397, 
402,  404,  406  sq.,  410,  414,  419,  423, 
436,  440,  443  sq.,  448,  474,  480,  498, 
504,  518,  525,  527,  534,  547,  561,  564, 
569,  572,  581,  583,  585. 

Mensch,  J.  N.,  342,  346  sq.,  350,  355  sq., 
361,  364,  366,  370  sq.,  374,  376  sq.,  382 
sq.,  386,  392,  394,  398,  404,  410,  414, 
419  sq.,  423,  430,  432  sq.,  436,  440,  443 
sq.,  447,  450,  461,  463,  486,  493,  497, 
504,  518,  534,  546,  550,  554,  561,  563, 
569,  572,  582  sq.,  585. 

Merkel  (Merkle,  Merckel),  L.  M.,  410,  414, 
419  sq.,  423,  430,  432  sq.,  436,  448, 
494(?),  519. 

Meyer  (Meier),  A.  F.,  246  sq.,  261,  265  sq., 
382  sq.,  459,  518. 

Meyer  (Meier),  L.  H.,  538,  577,  586,  588. 

Mever  (Mayer),  J.  \V.,  397,  406  sq.,  411, 
419,  433,  519. 

Meyerhoeffer  (Meierheffer),  Michael,  483, 
486,  49o,  505,  510,  519,  525,  527,  534 
sq.,  510, 546, 550,  555,  562  sq.,  570, 572, 
575,  577,  583. 

Miller  (Miiller),  Conrad,  507,  510,  520  sq., 
526,  536,  547,  566,  582,  584  sqq. 

Miller  (Miiller),  Jacob,  311,  394,  397,  400 
sq.,  405  sq.,  410,  414,  420,  423,  430,  432 
sq.,  436,  440,  443,  447,  449,  462,  464,_ 
481,  486,  493  sq.,  498,  504,  507,  510, 
518,  525,  527,  533  sq.,  546,  549,  561, 
563,  565,  567,  570,  583. 

Minnig  (Menig,  Minuing,  Munier,  Miin- 
nich),  425,  432  sqq.,  436,  440,  443  sqq., 
447,  451,  462,  464,  481,  486,  493  sqq., 
498,  504,  570,  519,  528,  535,  546,  555, 
562,  564,  566,  570,  579,  583,  585. 

Mischler,  Peter,  112,  114  sq. 

Moeller,  Friedrich,  322  sq.,  325  sq.,  332, 
335,  337,  341,  343,  350,  355,  361,  365, 
370,  374,  377,  386,  391  sq.,  397,  399, 
404,  406,  410,  413,  418,  420,  423,  435, 
440,  443,  446,  450,  464,  473,  480,  483, 
485,  489,  492,  497,  504  sq ,  518,  524, 


527,  534,  546,  549,  560  sq.,  563,  569, 
575,  581,  583. 

Moeller  (Holler,  Muller),  Heinrich,  150, 

^  152,  168,  176,  sqq.,  182,  184,  186,  188, 
190,  192  sqq.,  208,  214  sq.,  220,  222, 
226,  228,  230,  236,  239  sq.,  243  sq., 
260,  263,  265,  268,  270,  276,  279,  282, 
285,  290,  292,  297,  299,  303,  305,  309, 
313,  317  sq.,  321,  323. 

Mohler,  501,  505,  507,  520. 

Molther  (Mohler),  533,  540. 

Morris,  C.  A.,  462,  470,  474,  481,  486,  493, 
498,  505,  519,  521,  531. 

Muller,  Heinrich,  see  Moeller. 

Miinnig,  see  Minnig. 

Muhleuberg,  F.  A.,  121  sq.,  126,  130,  133, 
135,  137,  139  sq.,  142  sq.,  146  sq.,  149 
sqq.,  154  sqq.,  177,  222,  261  sq.,  269 
sqq. 

Muhlenberg,  H.  A.,  332, 335,  337,  341,  343, 
350,  355,  361,  365,  370,  374,  377,  386, 
391  sq.,  397,  399,  404,  406,  410,  413, 
415,  417,  423,  425,  429,  432,  435,  439, 
441,  445,  454,  461,  464,  467,  473,  479 
sq.,  483,  485,  487,  489,  592,  497,  499, 
504,  507,  509,  511,  513  sqq.,  517  sq., 
524,  527  sq.,  531,  537  sq.,  540,  546,  549, 
557,  559,  561,  563,  565,  569,  571,  576, 
580  sqq.,  585,  589. 

Muhlenberg,  H.  E.,  121  sqq.,  126, 130, 135, 
139,  150,  152,  154  sqq.,  158,  168,  176 
sqq.,  180  sq.,  185  sqq.,  191,  193  sq., 
198,  200,  202  sq.,  205  sqq.,  210  sqq., 
216  sqq.,  223  sqq.,  227,  229  sqq.,  235 
sq.,  239  sq.,  245  sqq.,  260  sq.,  263  sq., 
267  sq.,  27",  273,  275,  277,  279  sq.,  282, 
284,  287,  289,  291  sq.,  295,  297  sqq., 
301  sqq.,  305,  308  sqq., 312  sq.,  316  sq., 
322,  325,  329,  331,  334  sq.,  338  sq.,  343 
sq.,  349,  351,  354,  362,  369,  371,  373, 
376,  385,  387,  392  sq.,  395  sq.,  399,  406, 
408  sq.,  412  sq.,  418,  420,  422,  425,  429, 
431  sq.,  435,  438  sq.,441,  443  sqq.,  446, 
449  sq.,  463,  465,  476,  480,  484. 

Muhlenberg  H.  M.,  3,  5  sqq.,  9  sq.,  11  sq., 
19,  24  sqq.,  29  sqq.,  33  sqq.,  41  sqq., 
48  sqq.,  57  sqq.,  64  sqq.,  68  sqq.,  73,  75, 
77  sq.,  80  sqq.,  84,  86  sqq.,  104  sqq., 
119,  121  sq.,  124  sqq.,  128  sqq.,  136  sq., 
139  sq.,  142,  144  sqq.,  154  sqq.,  158 
sqq.,  167,  171, 179, 183  sq.,  186  sq.,  193, 
195,  199,  204,  211,  217. 

Muhlenberg,  Peter,  13,  90,  104  sq.,  107, 
112,  119,  137,  217,  352. 

"VTASMAN,  G.,  6,  8. 

-^      Neidlinger,  Benedict,  328. 

Nyberg,  L.  T.,  3,  9,  28,  50. 

OBENHAUSEN  (OBERHAUSEN, 
OBENHAUSS),  J.  F.,  272  sq.,  276, 
278,  280,  283,  285,  297,  299,  304  sq., 
309  sq.,  314,  317,  320,  323,  326,  328, 
333,  340,  343,  351. 
Osterloh  (Osterlo),  Friedrich,  S97,  400, 
407,  410,  412,  414,  418  sqq.,  423,  425, 


INDEX    II. 


597 


430,432  sq.,  436, 489  sq.,  443,  447,450, 
462,  464,  166,  47  l,  177  Bq.,  481,  486, 
■I  18,  198,  60i,  604,  610,  519,  525,  585, 

'.  540,  562,  564,  570,  .".77,  584  sq. 
<»u..,  160. 

PA  I ;  I.I  X  (BERLIN),  OLAF,  33,  38. 
Pauli.  456. 

Peters,  Richard,  68,  72,  L09. 

Petersen,  .1.  I'.,  334,  342, 846  sq., 350, 352, 

.  366,  370,  372,  375  sqq.,  386,  890, 

362  iqq.,  397,  404,  410,  414,  421,  423, 

425,  42!',  43i',  4:;ti,  438,  440,  448,  480, 

5  is. 

Plitt.  C.  F.,  342  sq.,  346  sq.,  350,  355  sq., 
::<;:>  sq. 

Plitt,  .I<»li..  298  sqq.,  298  sq.,  301  sq.,  304 
sq.,  309  sq.,  312,  314,  320,  323,  320, 
329  sq.,  332,  335  Bq.,  338,  340,  341  Bq., 
349,  353  sq.,  863,  365,  367,  369,  373, 
377  sq.,  385,  3S7, 302,  304,  396,  399  sq., 
403,  405  sq.,  409,413, 415,419  sq.,  423, 
425,  427,  42'.',  432,  435,  439  sq.,  443, 
4  15,  452,  454,  528,  539,  547,  551,  570, 

5s.;. 
Preissler,  J.,  455,  460. 
Probst,  215. 

Probst,  441,  454,  459  sq.,  462,  464  sq.,  470, 
47  1,  178,  481,  ls<:,  493,  498,  502,  505, 
507,  510,  519,  525,  527,  535,  546,  552, 
662  sq.,  565,  570,  572,  582  sq.,  585. 

QUITMAN    (QUITTMANN),   F.   H., 
,     280,  469  sq.,  528,  551,  653. 

R1HAUSER,  571,580. 
Rapp,  P.  H.,  64. 

Ranss,  Lucas,  28,  35  sqq.,  39,  58,  94. 

Rebenack  |  Rebenacfa  |,  J.  C,  346  sq.,  352, 

,  370,  395,  4(>5.  408,  412,  421,  425, 

454,  487,  493  sq.,  498,  504,  510,  515  sq., 

519,  525,  531,  5:14,  546,  556,  561,  564, 

570,  572,  581,  583,  585. 

Reck,  Abraham,  412,  451,  453,  474,  478, 
481,  498,  504,  507,  518,625,627,535 
sq.,  546,  549,  555.  562,  -r>  14  sq.,  570,  583. 

Rehman  (Riemann,  Reimann,  Richman), 
Conrad,  311,  337  sq.,  341,  343,  347, 
355,  363,  366,  870  sqq.,  :^74,  ;:77  sq., 
391,  393  sqq.,  3  9,  404, 
411,  414,  420,  424,  430,  436,  440,  443, 
448,474,480,  483,  498,  504,  519,  524 
Bq.,  546,  562,  564,  570,  583. 

Reiche,  234. 

Reichel,  Bishop,  513. 

Reichert,  Adam,  561  sq. 

Keilv,  Jacob,  651. 

Reinhardt,  Job.,  Ill  sq.,  148,  481,  519. 

Repaa  (Rebaa  ,  J.,  494, 498,  501,  506,  507, 
562  sq.,  566,  570,  572, 
681,  584  -i. 

RIemenBehneider,  Georg,  369. 

Riemenschneider,  Heinricb,S81,892, 394, 
397,399,402,  405 sqq., 410,  41  t  oq., 419 
sq.,421, 436,440,  143,448,454,474,480, 

.  198,  601,  604,  :.i!',  662,  .".:. 
o''i,  570,  I 


Riess,  J.  F.,  71,  156. 

Roaller,  Conrad,  ISOsq.,  139, 144,  151,  156, 
158  Bq.,  161,  168,  176,  181,  L83  sq..  192 
sq.,  195  sq.,  199  aq.,  202,  204,  207,  209, 

211  sqq.,  217,  21!',  225,  230,  232,  234, 
238,  289,  245,  260,  263,  265,  268,  271, 
275,  278  sq. 

Roeller,  J.  G.,  298,  301  sq.,  304  sqq.,  309 
sq.,  318  Bq.,  :;17,  320,  .".2:;,  326,  .".28, 
34(1,  346,  350,  355,  361,  374,  413.  423, 
425  Bq.,  429,  431  sq.,  436,  I  \6,  450,  492, 
518,  525,  527,  634,  546,  549,  554,  561, 
563,  583. 

Roth,  .1.  J.,  61,  65,  68  sq.,  71. 

Rothrauff(Rothraff,Routhrauff,Rudrauf, 
Rodrauf,  Ruthranff),  Joh.,  272  sq., 
278,  281,  283,  285  sq.,  289,  291  sq.,  294 
sq.,  298  sq.,  304  sqq.,  309  sq.,  314,  317 
sq.,  323,  326,  M29  sq.,  332,  335,  338, 
349,  35  1  sq.,  865,  369,375,385,391  sq., 
394,  396,  4H3,  406,  409,  413,  419  sq., 
42!',  43.".,  439,  443,  447,  460,  453,  473, 
480,  492,  497,  504,  606  Bq.,  509,  515, 
518,  525,  527,  533,  638,  5  15,549,553, 
557  sq.,  660  Bq.,  563,  665,  569. 

Rndisill,  Adam,  434,  436.  4  12  sq.,  451,  464, 
46*  sq.,  474,  47!',  481,  4!'.".,  498,  679. 

Rfitz  (  Ritz,  Retz),  Aug.,  246  sq.,  264  sqq., 
269,  273,  ;-(75,  382. 

Rupert  (  Rnpperl  I,  468  sqq.,  474,  479  sqq., 
486,493,  498,  505,  510,  519,522,529, 
547,  562,  564,  570,  572,  581,  5S3,  685. 

SACK  MAN,  J.  M.,  410,  414,  418  sqq., 
423,  430,  432  sq.,  436,  440,  443,  445, 
4i<,  452,  458,  464,  466,  474,  481,  480, 
493  sqq.,  498,  604,  606,  519,524  sq., 
535,  547,  550,  563  sq.,  571,  584. 
Sandin,  Joh.,  3,  6  sqq.,  12. 
Sanno,  Friedrich,  327,  329  sq.,  332,  334  sq., 
337  sq.,  341,  35ii,   355,  36T,  366,  368, 
370  sqq.,  374,  377,  382,  384,  3*6,  388, 
390  sqq..  895,  397,  899,  404,  406,  410, 
412,  411,  419,  423  Bq.,  430,  432,  435, 
44(1,  444,  447,  450. 
Schaeffer,  D.  F.,  382,  386,  390  sqq.,  394, 
397,  405  sqq.,  410,  414,  419  sq.,  423, 
430,  432  Bq.,  436, 440, 443  sq.,447,  450, 
456,464,466,474,  480,  486,  493,498, 
500,  504,  510,  512  sq.,  518,  525,  527, 
.".:;  1,  640,  545  sq.,  649,  553,  558,  560  sq., 
563,  570,  574,  580,  583. 
Schaeffer,  D.  (J.,  818;  325,  327,  329  sq., 

332,  334  sqq.,  338. 

Schaeffer,  F.   ('.,  437,  442,  445,  417,  451, 

455,  462,  464,  469  sq.,  478,  48l,  4s6, 

489  sq.,  507,  519,  529. 

Schaeffer,  F.  !>.,  168,  176,  191,  209  sqq., 

211,  217,  220  sqq.,  225  sq.,  231,  236, 

260,  268,  265,  268,  271.  275, 

277,  27:\  283,  289,  291  sqq.,  297,  299, 

302  sq.,  305,  309  sq.,  313  sq.,  316  sq., 

321  Bqq.,  326,  329  sqq.,  835,  339  sqq., 

349,  SM,  15,  367  sqq.,  371, 

373,  377  sq.,  380, 362  sq.,  385,  SI  2.  396 

102,  406,  4('!',  413,  41!)  Bq.,  122, 

425,  429,  431  sq.,  435,  439,  443,  446, 


598 


INDEX  II. 


449  sq.,  461,  463,  468,  473,  475,  483, 
485,  489  sq.,  492,  496,  601,  505,  507, 

518,  524,  527  sq.,  534,  538,  550,  561, 
564,  570,  574,  582,  585  sq. 

Schaeffer,  Solomon,  397,  399,  401,  406, 410, 
414,  416,  418  sqq  ,  423,  430,  432  sq., 
4^6, 440, 443, 447, 449  sq.,  462,  464, 476. 

Schaffuer,  549. 

Schaum,  J.  H.,  3  sq.,  6  sq.,  24  sqq.,  29  sq., 
36  sq.,  39,  41,  48,  57,  60  sqq.,  64,  71, 
75, 82, 87  sq.,  102  sq.,  121, 130, 139, 154. 

Schelhard,  199,  209,  216. 

Schertel  (Schertlein?),  115. 

Schertlein  (Shertlin),  J.  F.,  40  sq.,  48,  71, 
90. 

Schewe  (Scheeve,  Scheme),  332  sq.,  338. 

Schiudel,  Peter,  439,  442,  417,  451,  455, 
462,  464.  481,  486,  493  sqq..  504,  510, 

519,  532,  535,  546,  549  sq.,  558  sq.,  562, 
564  sq.,  569  sq.,  572  sq.,  581,  583,  585. 

Schintler,  518. 

Schmick  (Schmuck),  501  sq.,  505, 507, 510, 
515  sq.,  520,  522.  526,  531,  535,  547, 
563,  567,  570,  584  sq.,  587. 

Schmidt,  A.  H.,  286.  315,  320,  327,  329. 

Schmidt,  J.  F.,  87, 104  sq..  107  sq.,  113  sq., 
116,  121,  130,  136,  139,  147,  152,  154, 
156,  158,  161,  168,  176  sq.,  184,  189, 
198,  200,  202  sqq.,  207  sq..  211  sqq.. 
219,  221  sq.,  226,  230,  235  sq.,  239,  242 
sq.,  246  sq.,  260,  263,  268  sqq.,  272, 
274  sqq.,  279  sq.,  282  sq.,  285  sq.,  288, 
295,  297,  301,  303,  307. 309  sq.,  313  sq., 
317,  321  sqq.,  325,  327,  330  sqq.,  335, 
339  sq.,  345,  349,  354,  356,  36.5,  373, 
375  sq.,  380,  382  sq.,  385,  387, 392, 394, 
396,  399,  402,  406,  410,  412  sq.,  422, 
425,  428  sq.,  434,  437. 

Schmidt,  J.  W.,  538  sq.,  573,  579,  586  sq. 

Schmucker,  J.  G.,  246  sq.,  262,  264  sqq., 
269,  271  sqq.,  276,  280,  282,  285,  287, 
289,  291  sq.,  298  sq.,  301,  303,  305, 308, 
310,  312,  314,  322,  326,  333,  340,  344 
sq.,  349,  354,  361,  365,  369,  373,  377, 
383,  385,  391  sq.,  394,  396,  402,  406  sq., 
409,  411,  413,  421  sq.,  425,  429,  434  sq., 
437,  439,  446,  449  sq.,  454,  461,  463, 
467,  473,  480,  483,  485,  489,  492,  497, 
501,  503,  506  sq.,  509,  513  sqq.,  522  sq., 
524,  527, 534, 537,  544  sq.,  549, 557,  559, 
561,  563,  569,  571,  581  sq.,  585,  587  sq. 

Schmucker,  Nicholas,  434,  436,  442  sq., 
448,  451,  455,  474,  481,  519. 

Schmucker,  S.  S.,  556,  564  sqq.,  570,  572, 
575,  581,  584. 

Schnee,  Jacob,  455,  459  sq.,  462,  464,  474, 
476,  481,  546,  559,  563  sq.,  570,  575, 
584,  586. 

Schrenck,  L.  H.,  29  sqq.,  33,  35  sqq.,  39. 

Schroeter  (Schroeder),  J.  Daniel,  152,  154 
sqq.,  168,  176  sqq.,  181  sqq.,  186,  1S8, 
190,  193  sqq.,  198  sqq.,  202,  204,  207, 
211  sq.,  214,  217,  219,  225  sqq.,  230, 
233  sq..  236,  239  sq.,  243,  261,  268,276, 
282,  285,  287,  289,  291  sq.,  298  sqq.,  301, 
308,  310  sq.,  318  sq.,  322,  326  sqq.,  369. 

Schroeder,  J.  G.,  214  sq. 


Schneider,  Abraham,  478  sq.,  483,  498, 505, 
507,  520. 

Schober,  Gottlieb,  466,  471,  524,  527  sq., 
538,  551,  553. 

Schultz,  Friedrich,  35  sqq.,  132. 

Schultze,  C.  Emmanuel,  84,  100,  103  sqq., 
107,  112,  119,  121,  127,  129,  133,  139 
sq.,  150,  154  sqq.,  167,  176  sqq.,  181, 
185  sq.,  191  sqq.,  195  sqq.,  202  sqq., 
206  sq.,  211,  213,  217,  219,  225  sqq., 
236,  239,  243,  260  sq.,  263,  265,  267 
sqq.,  271  sq.,  274  sq.,  277,  279,  282, 
285,  292,  297  sq.,  302  sqq.,  307  sqq., 
312  sq.,  317  sq.,322,  325,  330,  341,  349, 
354,  373,  385,  392,  407. 

Schultze,  H.,  521  sq.,  526,  530,  532,  535, 
538,  547,  554,  557,  563  sq.,  567,  570, 
577,  579,  584  sq.,  587  sq. 

Schultze,  J.  A.,  287,  297,  304  sq.,  309  sq., 
312,  314,  322,  325,  340. 

Schumacher,  Daniel,  115. 

Schwarbach,  Joh.,  79,  84  sq.,  100  sq.,  130, 
136  sq.,  139. 

Schwartz,  527  sq. 

Schwerdfeger,  J.  Samuel,  56,  59,  61  sq., 
64  sq.,  80,  99,  121,  124  sq.,  130,  139, 
141,  143  sq.,  147,  156,  168,  176,  192, 
220,  222,  261. 

Scriba,  Wilhelm,  332,  335,  337,  350,  355, 
366,  370  sqq.,  374,  377,  382  sq.,  386, 
390  sqq.,  394,  397,  404,  406,  410,  414, 
420,  423,  425,  428,  432  sq.,  435,  440, 
442  sq.,  447, 450,  462, 464,  469, 474,  480, 
492,  498,  504,  510,  519,  522,  525,  535, 
546, 551, 562  sq..  570, 579,  581,  583,  585. 

Simon, ,  381,  388  sq.,  395,  397,  400  sq., 

405,  408.  411,  414,  420,  424,  436  sq., 
448,  454,  468,  477,  519. 

Simon,  George,  343,  347,  351. 

Sparke,  Ludolph,  306. 

Speck,  Joh.,  553,  564  sqq.,  570,  575,  579, 
581,  584  sq. 

Spindler,  Adolph,  287,  290.  292,  298  sqq., 
309  sq.,  314, 324,  335,  338  sq.,  351,  362, 
365,  375,  386,  398,  403,  410,  413,  423, 
436,  448. 

Stauch,  Job.,  265  sq.,  269,  271  sqq.,  276, 
285,  285  sq.,  289,  291  sq.,  298,  304  sq., 
308  sqq.,  314,  324.  333.  340,  346  sq., 
351,  355,  365, 369,  371  375  sq.,  380  sq., 
386,  389  sqq.,  393  sq.,  396  sq.,  403,  407, 
411  sqq.,  418,  423,  425,  429,  435,  439, 
443,  448.  477,  480,  483,  497,  518,  528, 
534,  551  sqq. 

Stecher  (Stecker),  505  sq.,  510,  515  sq., 
520,  529,  535,  540.  547.  549,  557,  562, 
564,  566,  571  sq.,  581,  584  f?q. 

Steck  (Steg),  J.  Michael,  287.  290,  295,  298 
sq.,  305,  314  sq.,  318,  320,  324,  326, 
333,  335,  341,  351,  365,  367,  370  sqq., 
375,  377  sq.,  386,  390,  393,  398,  403, 
411  sqq.,  423,  425,  429,  436,  440  sqq., 
448,  453,  464,  480,  519,  538. 

Steck,  Michael.  494  sq.,  529. 

Stein,  J.  G.,  529  sq.,  538,  540.  547,  563,  566 
sq..  570,  575,  577,  581,  584  sqq. 

Stock  ^Stokj,  Carl,  241,  245,  261,  266,  283, 


INDIiX   II. 


599 


285  sq.,  290,  298,  304,  320  sq.,  323,  325 
sq.,  329,  350,  355,  306,  370,  372,  374, 
377,  3S2,  386,  392  sqq.,  397,  404,  411 
sq,  414,  424  sq.,  428,  492,  532,  547, 
550,  5(32,  564  sq  ,  570,  5i>4. 

Btock,  .I«>s.,  272  sq. 

Stock,  V.  G.,  333  sq.,  341. 

btoever,  I.  Caspar,  10  Bq.,  25,  46,  56,  68  sq., 
71,  73,  87  Bq.,  92,  NJ5  sq.,  121,  125,  133 
sq.,  139,  147. 

Storck,  302. 

Stout  (Staut),  P.  J.,  371,  382  sq.,  386,  392, 
304  sq.,  398,  405,  411  sq.,  418. 

Strebeek,  Ueorg,  292  sq.,  345. 

Slrein,  Carl,  564  sq.,  571,  584. 

Strein,  Jacob,  442,  465,  470  sq.,  474,  486, 
488,  493,  498,  504,  510,  519,  522.  525, 
527,  535,  546,  562  sq.,  565  sq.,  5/0,  574, 
577,  5SH,  585. 

Streit,  Christian,  88  sq.,  104  sq.,  107,  112 
sq.,  117,  119,  121  sq..  126,130,  137,  139, 
14 1,  158,  168, 176,  186, 188  sq.,  191  sqq., 
195,  198,  204,  213,  215  sq.,  219,  223, 
243,  261,  269,  276,  282,  298,  304,  308. 
314,  331,  335,  338,  341,  345,  350,  365, 
369,  371,  373,  376,  378,  386,  397,  402, 
410,  412  sq.,  423,  429,  457. 

Streiter,  11,  25. 

rPANNAPFEL,  C.  B.,  201. 

Tennent,  W.  74. 

Tiedeman  (Friedman),  E.  H.,  397,  400, 
406  sq.,  4lo,  412,414,419  sqq., 424  sq., 
433  sq.,  436,  442  sq.,  447,  455,  464,  481, 
486,  493  sq.,  498,  504,  519,  525,  535. 

Tranberg,  Peter,  7. 

Trumbauer  (Trumbaur), Samuel,  505, 507, 
610,  520.  525,  535,  546,  562  sq.,  570, 
572,  578,  581,  584  sq.,  587  sq. 

UNANDER,  ERIK,  42. 
Ulrich  (Ullrich,  Ullerich,  Uhlrich), 
Daniel,  397,  400  sq.,  406,  410,  414  sqq., 
419  sq.,  423.  425  sq.,  430,  432  Sq.,  440, 
443,  447,  449  sq.,  455,  462,  464,  474. 
481,  483,  486,  493  sqq.,  498,  500,  504, 
510,518,525,  534,  546,  549,  561,  564 
sq  ,  569,  572,  574,  581,  583,  585. 

VAX  BUSKERK  (Buskerk,  Bosch- 
kirch,  Bushkirk),  Jacob.  87  sq.,  103 
sq.,  107,  112,  114  sq..  121,  1^0,  139,  154, 
156.  10S,  176  sq.,  170,  1S2,  1M,  l.s6. 
199  sqq.,  204,  207,211,217.219,225, 
232,  236,  239,  260,  264,  268,  275,  277, 
270,  283,  297,  304,  309. 

Vanhoff  (Vonhof),  — ,410,412,414,419 
sq.,  428,  430,  432  sq.,  436,  439  sq.,  443, 
117,  450,  454,462,  464,  174,  481,483, 
486,  404  sq.,  498,  604,  518,  547,  554, 
561,  564,  670,  " 

Vigera,  J.  F.,  11,1 

Voight,  J.  Lndwig,  8 1. 86 sqq.,  103sqq.,  107 
113,  118,  121,  123  sq.,  126  sq.,  130  sqq., 
189,  111  sq.,  150, 154  sqq.,  158  sqq., 
107,  17. ;  Bq.,  170,  181,  184,  102.  194, 
199,  201,  207,  211  sqq.,  216,  219,  228, 


226,  228,  230,  236  sq.,  239,  261,  269, 
270,  283,  304,  306,  315  sq. 
Vonholl',  521. 

W  ACUTE  R,  Michael,  538  sqq.,  547, 
563  sqq.,  507,  671,  684. 

Wackerhagen,  Aug.,  549,  552,  573. 

Wade, ,  is7  sqq. 

Wagner,  Tobias,  11,  25,  29. 

Walberg,  F.  A.,  1 14. 

Walter,  J.  Conrad,  355  sq.,  361,  366,  370, 
•'•72,  374,  377,  382,  384,  386,  392  sqq., 
307,  300,  404,  406sq.,410,414,419sqq., 
423,  425,  430,  435,  440,  443,  447,  450, 
461,  463,  472  sqq.,  480,  483,  485,  489, 
493,  407 .  r>i M,  505 , 6 1 8, 520, 534, 558, 579. 

Walter,  .Martin,  483,  £07,  520. 

Walz,  Ludwig,  520,  522,  626,  550,  563  sqq., 
567,  571,  575,  584,  588. 

Wartman,  462,  464,  470,  474,  481,493,  510, 
519,  522,  547,  561,  564  sq.,  570,  578, 
583,  585. 

Weigand,  Heinrich,  397,  400  sq.,  406  sq., 
410  (?),  414,  418  sqq.,  42.3,  430,  432  sq., 
436,  440,  4-13,  447,  450,  462,  464,  474, 
478,  481,  4.s3,  493,  504,519. 

Weinberg,  105. 

Weinland,  J.  F.,  214,  217,219,225,227, 
230,  2^3,  236  sq.,  239  sq.,  260,  262,  205, 
268,  270,  276,  278.  283,  338,  347. 

Weyand  (Weygand,  Weiandt,  Wieandt), 
416,  410,  443,  447,  451,  454,  457,  464, 
481,  48fi,  619,  532,  535,  547,  550,  502, 
566,  570,  578,  584,  586  sq. 

Weyer  (Wevher,  Weierj,  Anthony,  418, 
441  sq.,  445. 

Weygand,  Albert,  27  sqq.,  33,  36  sq.,  39,  46 
sqq.,  57,  59  sqq.,  63  sqq.,  70  Bq.,  99  sq. 

White,  William,  Bishop,  178,  514. 

Whitefield,  George,  68.  74,  80. 

Wichterman,  <;.  Joseph,  238  sq.,  243,245, 
201  sq.,  264  sqq.,  200,  276. 

Wiegand,  Gunther,  240,  261,  264  sqq.,  271 
sq.,  275,  277,  279  sq. 

Wigand  (?),  312. 

Wildbahn  (Wildban),  C.  F.,  92  sqq.,  104 
sq.,  118,  121,  123,  126  sq.,  130,  132, 
134  sq.,  144,  147,  150,  156,  168,  176, 
182  sq.,  186, 191,  193,  196,  199  sq.,204, 
206  sq.,  211  sqq.,  216,  219,  224  sq., 
230,  213,  260,  202  Bq.,  265,  268,  271, 
275,  277,  282,  284  Bq.,  289,  291,  297, 
302  sq„  308,  314,  318,  322,  341. 

Wrangel,  D.  C.  U  .  45  sq.,  48,56  sqq.,  68 
sq.,  71,  73  sq.,  77,  82,  84,  93,  99  sq. 

\'<>iXG,  J.  G.,  see  Jung. 

ZASr.ETN   (Jaslein,   Joslein),   J.,   469, 
470,  487,  489,  601. 
Ziegenhagen,  F.  M.,  3,  49. 
Zimmerman,  Wilhelm,  Bee  Carpenter. 
Zink,  Heinrich,  232  sq.,  466,  470. 
Zaokel,  601. 
Zursilcr,  521. 


INDEX  III. 


LOCAL  INDEX. 


Note. — Peculiar  difficulties  were  connected  with  the  preparation  of  this  index,  especially  those 
arising  lroui  the  confused  spelling  and  the  frequently  indefinite  references  of  the  Protocol.  Many 
congregations  can  thu  i  he  traced  only  through  the  County  or  Township  in  which  they  are,  or  were 
during  the  period  covered. 

Where  State  is  not  mentioned  Pennsylvania  is  understood,  or  the  State  could  not  be  determined. 
Principal  variations  in  orthography  are  noted  in  parenthesis. 


AARONSBURG  (Arensburg),  278,  280, 
341,  346,  364,  386  sqq.,  392,  403,  448, 

4S5,  487. 
Abbottstown  (Abbettstadt),  214,  300,  305, 

310  sq.,  375,  378,  386,  397  sqq.,  435, 

448,  474  sq.,  498,  525,  534,  546,  548. 
Adams  Co.,  365,  368,  390  sq.,  400,  403. 
Albanv,  N.  Y.,  115,  122,125. 
Albany  Twp.,  Pa.,  115,  122,  125,  266,  278. 
Albenual  (Albany,  Fa.)  (?),  311. 
Alexandria,  502. 

Allegheny  Twp,  Westmoreland  Co.,  287. 
Allegheny,  Lancaster  Co.,  263,  270,  305, 

363,  403,  454. 
Alleghany  Co.,  Md.,  530. 
Allemangel  ( Allemingao),  283,  297. 
Allentown,  70  sq.,  104,  130,  178,  191,  261, 

264,  266,  278,  422,  435,  446,  448,  456, 

461  sq.,  473,  486,  509,  511,  524,  545, 

547,  569. 
Allen  Twp,  Northampton  Co.,  215,  342, 

417,  424. 
Amherst  Co.,Va.,  337. 
Amitv  Twp.,  Berks  Co.,  308,  355. 
Appel's  Church,  335,  403. 
Armstrong  Co.,  501. 
Arndt's  Church,  368,  400,  402,  404. 
Atolheo,  see  also  Swatara,  122,  263,  277. 
Augusta  Co.,  Va.,  276,  290,  295,  332,  335, 

337  sq.,  360,  366,  550. 

BALTIMORE,  Md.,  124,  143,  200,  207, 
210,  214  sq.,  231,  237,  260,  263,  269, 
275  sq.,  282,  2^6,  2*9  sq.,  295  3(H),  303, 
308,  313  sq.,  317.  319  sq.,  325  sq.,  331 
sq.,  335,  342,  349,  351,  355,  365  sqq., 
369,  373,  376  sq.,  385,  387,  392,  397 
sqq.,  402,  409,  411,  414,  422,  424  sqq., 
435,  447,  461  sq.,  473  sq.,  485  sq.,  492, 
4!i7,  508  sq.,  511,  520  sq.,524,  526,  537, 
541  sq.,  545,  551,  558,  569. 

Bald  Castle,  357. 

Bardstown  (Bcardstown),  Ky,  465,  469, 
547. 

Barron  Hill  (Bnrnhill),  60  sq.,  63  sq.,  70, 
Kit  sq.,  127,  153,  263,  267,269,355, 
402,  437. 

Bartle's  Church,  355. 

600 


Bauer's  Church,  386. 
Bauermau's  (Briermau's)  Church,  317, 356. 
Beard's  Church,  Md.,  281. 
Beaver  Co.,  501. 

Beaver  (Biber)  Creek,  Md.  (?),  402. 
Beaver  Dam,  N.  Y.,  247. 
Beavertown  (Beaverdam,  Biberdam),  Sny- 
der Co.,  361,  364,  404,  587. 
Beber  (Biber)   Creek,  Lancaster  Co.,  see 

also  Larltown,  63. 
Bedford  Co.,  280. 

Bedminster  Twp.,  N.  J.,  70,  104  sq.,  136. 
Bedminster  Twp,  Bucks  Co.,  Pa.,  238,332, 

335. 
Bellefonte.  477. 
Belman's  Church,  266. 
Belmont  Co.,  O.,  441. 
Bender's  Church,  346,  368,  390  397  sq., 

400,  402,  404,  410  sqq.,  436,  448. 
Benjamin's  Church,  Md.,  512,  522. 
Berger's  Church,  405. 
Bergkirche,  262,  273,  278,  355,  362,  402, 

454. 
Bersrstrasse,  182,  263,  270,  363,  403  sq. 
Berlin,  Adams  Co.,  570  sq. 
Berlin,  Somerset  Co.,  281,  283,  290,  298, 

318,  320,  335,  346,  351,  386,  455,  528, 

539,547,  553. 
Bermudian,   see  also   Upper  and  Lower 

Bermudian,  272  sq.,  276  sqq. 
Bern  Twp.,  Berks  Co.,  see  also  Nordkill, 

122,  400.  458. 
Berne  (Berneville),  see  also  Nordkill,  263. 
Bieber's  Church,  278. 
Biudnasel's   Church,  278,  355,  362,  402, 

531,  534,  577. 
Bishop  Congregations,  123. 
Blevmeyer's  (Bleimeyer's)   Church,  247, 

264]  333,  429. 
Bloomsburg  (Blumsburg),  418,  436,  447, 

449,  462  sq.,  474,  486  sq.,  499,  510,  525 

sq.,  547  sq.,  570. 
Blue  Mountains  (also  "Blnubercrer  "),  71, 

81,  115,    19,  159  (?),  333  sq.,^537. 
Rohn's  Church,  Ten.,  404. 
Bord's  Church,  Md.,  402. 
Briar  Creek,  558. 
Brick  Church,  see  Upper  Windsor. 


INDEX  III. 


601 


Brooks  Cape,  Va.,  2S7. 

Ill-other's  Valley  Twp.,  Somerset  Co.,  533. 

1. run's  Valley,  278. 

Brunswick  (Braunschweig),  325,  334  sq. 

Brush  Creek  (Brosohkrick).  284,  287. 

Brush  Valley  iBrosche  Valley),  305,  319, 

S64,  4H3. 
Bucket's  Creek,  361, 
Buffalo,    N.    l.,   436,  447,   440,  462,  474, 

198  sq. 
Buffalo  (Uuffloe),  Pa.,  273,  278,  280. 
Bull'alo  Valley,  357,  4;S6  sq. 

f~\  VMPBELLTOWN  (Cammell's,  Cam- 

V->     pelstadt),  273,  278,  355,  362,  402,  404. 

Canshannick  Creek,  361. 

Carlisle,  161,  178,  188,  199,  201,  214,  234, 
278,  287,  304  sq.,  309,  314,  317,  319  sq., 
333  sq.,  337,  341,  343,  350,  365  sq.,  374 
sq.,  386  sq..  392,  397  sq.,  404,  410,  412, 
423 sqq.,  436,  439,  447,  462sq.,  474sq., 
482,  486  sq.,  494,  498  sq.,  510  sq.,  525 
sq.,  546,  548,  570  sq.,  582. 

Castleman's  River,  281. 

Catawissa  (Cotovesse,  Katawissen),  320, 
325,  335,  386,  392,  397,  510  sq.,  525, 
558. 

Cavetown  (?)  (Catestown),  Md.,  403. 

Centre  Co,,  501  sq.,  556. 

Centreville,  .ri4o,  670. 

Chambersburg  (Chamberstown>,  178,269, 
271,  284,  293  sqq.,  298,  309,  314,  316, 
318  sq.,  325,  341,  343,  350,  365 sq.,  374 
sq.,  377,  386,  392,  397  sq.,  404,  410, 
436,  446,  473,  475,  485,  497,  625,  546, 
548  sq.,  660,  569,  571, 

Chanoeford  Two.,  York  Co.,  281,  333. 

Charleston,  B.  C,  1  18. 

Cluster  Co.,  313,  316,  323,  325,  332,  335. 
tnut  Hill,  Lehigh  Co. ;  see  also  Lower 
Milford,  356,  I 

Cincinnati,  O.,  4s7,  489,  501. 

<]averack,  N.  Y.,  70. 

Cocalico,  290,  304,  313,  318,  402,  416. 

Codorus  (Codoris,  Cathores)  York  Co.,  94, 

1_'_',  277. 
-Cohenzy,  N.  J.,  28,  30  sq.,  39,  63  sq.,  71, 
299,  311,  319,  402,  406,  410,  525. 

Colombia,  384,  404,  439,  546. 

Columbia  Co.,  502. 

Columbiana  Co.,  (Columbia),  O.,  343,  403, 
466. 

Conecoclieatrne  (Canegogig,  Cano>;oge, 
Canoquicheague,  Cannoquocheak, 
Caaegoschick),  Md.,  94,  122, 126,  135, 
139  aq.,  I  12  sq.,  246,  273,  287,355,402. 

Conestoga,  59,  70,  73,  75. 

Conewago  (Conawaka),  4,  71,  74,  93  sq., 
128,  130,  139,  311. 

Connodoquinet,  439. 

Crawford  Co.,  889.  391,  427,  442, 

l  jerstowu  (Crugerstown,  Kriigers- 
town  .  Md.,  260,  272.  405. 

Crcutz  Creek,  366,  408,  688. 

Cuh.epper.  V;,..  282,  290,  304,  308,  331, 
886,  ',  402, 

4-47,  465,  479. 


Cumberland  Co.,  221,  361,386,  393  397, 
406.  410  sq.,  436,  447  sqq.,  462,  474  sq., 
486,  498  sq.,  502,  510  sq.,  530,  533. 

Cumberland,  Md.;  see  also  Fort  Cumber- 
laud,  281,  404,  512,  546,  558,  570. 

DANVILLE,  Ky.,280. 
Dauphin  Co.,  867. 

David's  Church,  290,  362,402. 

Decatur  Twp.,  Mifflin  Co.,  471. 

Derstown,  Snyder  Co.,  317. 

Donegal,  105  112,  1 14. 

Douglasville  ;  see  Molatton. 

Dover    Del.,  72. 

Dover,  York  Co.,  177,  181,  188,  191,  281, 

287,  290,  298  300,  333,  335. 
Dreysbach  (Dreisbach)  Church,  317,  364. 
Dry  Land   (DrockenlandJ,   f22,    125  sq., 

139,  141,  158,  161,  178,  277,  306. 
Dubbsen's  Church,  '.'7. 
Diiverstown  (?),  357. 

EAELTOWN  (Earlstown,  Earling- 
town) ;  see  also  New  Holland,  3,  7, 
11,25,  70,  73,75,  85,  104  so.,  122  sq., 
129.  139,  149,  187  sq.,  191,  264. 

Early's  (Ehrle's)  Church,  319  364,  403. 

East  (Ost)  Buffalo  Twp..  Union  Co.,  571. 

East  Camp  (Camp),  H.  Y.,  70,  269. 

Last  Nantmeal  (Eastnantmill),  Chester 
Co.,  355. 

Easton  (Easttown).  63,  70,  72.  122,  126, 
130, 137, 139,  141, 158  sq.,  161,177, 1 7!', 
181,  184,  294,  310,  315,  319  sq.,  323, 
327,  329, 332, 335, 339 sqq., 345 sq., 349 
sq.,  364  sq.,  374,  377,  385,  387  sq.,  390, 
396,  398  sq.,  403,  407,  409,  411,  423 
sq.,  435,  446,  448,  458,  461,  46.5,  486 
sq.,  498  sq.,  510  sq.,  525  sq.,  546,  ob'j. 

East  Pennsborough,  226. 

Ebenezer,  Ga.,  145. 

Egypt,  104  199. 

Elizabeth  Furnace,  60. 

Elizabethtown,  226,  316,324,  384,390,404, 
447,  44!»,  486  sq.,  498,  510  sq.,  525  sq., 
548,  577. 

Elizabeth  Twp..  Lancaster  Co.,  426,  436. 

Emmitsburgb  (Emmettsburg,  Emmetts- 
towni.  Md.;  sec  also  Thomas  Creek, 
316,  324,  342,  355,403. 

Erie,  46'.',  484. 

Eversham  (Evansham),  "Wythe  Co.,  Va., 
36:;,  386. 

FAIRFIELD  CO.,  O  ,  439,  452. 
Fairriew,  Twp.,  York  Co.,  501. 

Falkncr's  Swamp  (Falconer  Swamp, 
Faulckner  Bchwamm,  Fanlkner- 
Bchwamm);  see  also  Ne»  Hanover, 
182,  184,  2  16,  818,  400,  405,  498  sq., 
610,  625,  546,  : 

Falls,  Kv,  280. 

Falling     Springs     (Fallspring,     Fallcn- 
•pring),  284,  291,  296,  806,  S16 
402. 

"  Fantze's  Vallev,"  317,  357.  451. 

Fayette  Co.,  324,'  340  sq.,  345,  350,  365. 


602 


INDEX  III. 


Feilstown,  N.  Y.,  226,  247. 

Fetterhaft's  (Fetterhave's,  Federhof) 
Church,  364,  368,  408. 

Fincastle,  Va.,  368. 

Fisher's  Church,  403. 

Fisching  Creek  (Fischen  Creek),  424. 

Fissel's  (Fisel'a)  Church,  287,  336,  350, 
363,  366,  385,  387,  390,  392  sq.,  397 
sqq.,  403,  409,  411. 

Flinschbach's  Church,  439. 

Foliuer's  (Fulliner's,  Vollrner's,  Wal- 
mer's(?),)  Church,  320,  404,  501,  529. 

Forks  (The  Fork)  Twp.,  Northampton 
Co.,  30,  35,  474,  478,  486,  498  sq.,  510, 
525,  546,  548,  570. 

Forest  Church,  362,  403,  454. 

Fort  Cumberland,  Md.;  see  also  Cumher- 
land,  3«5  sq.,  374,  386,  388,  392,  397 
sqq.,  410  sq. 

Fort  Run,  Va.,  84. 

France  (Frantz)  Creek  (French  Creek?), 
124,  132,  141. 

Frankford  (Frankfurt),  302,  317,  319, 
355,  402. 

Franklin  Co.,  498,  525,  558. 

Frankstown,  481,  502. 

Frederick  (Frederickstown,  Friedrichs- 
town,  Friedrichstadt),  Md.,  39,41,  70, 
80,  99,  122,  124  sq.,  129  sq.,  134,  150, 
177,  181,  186,  191,  193,  207,  213,  221, 
226  sq.,  230,  232,  236,  239  sq.,  244, 
262,  269,  271,  275,  277,  279,  284,  289, 
291,  302,  318  sq.,  325,  328  sq.,  332  sq., 
335,  340,  345,  347,  350,  356,  365  sq., 
368,  374  sq.,  377  sqq.,  391,  397  sq., 
405,  410  sqq.,  423,  436,  447  sq.,  466, 
470,  473  sqq.,  486,  498  sq.,  510  sq., 
525  sq.,  546,  548,  551. 

Frederick  Co.,  Va.,  192. 

Frey's  Church,  247,  264,  281,  363,  439, 
533,  550,  557. 

Frieden's  Church,  Md.,  272. 

Frieden's  Church,  Northampton  Co.,  465. 

Friesburg,  N.  J.,  see  Cohenzy. 

Funkstown  (Fuuckstown)  Md.,  273,  286 
sq.,  355,  402. 

fl  EBER'S  CHURCH,  Md.,  287, 363, 403. 

^     Gebhardt's  Church,  O.,  469. 

Genessee,  N.  Y.,  423,  448. 

Geneva,  N.  Y.,  494. 

"  George  Hills,"  404. 

Georgia,  148,  215. 

German  Creek,  478. 

Germantown,  O.,  478. 

Germautown,  3,  7,  9  sq.,  24,  28  sqq.,  35 
sq.,  38  sqq.,  60,  64,  68,  70  sqq..  77,  83, 
88,  104  sq.,  112,  114,  122,  130,  136, 
139,  147,  177,  191,  198,  202,  207,  214, 
231,  233,  236  sq.,  260  sq.,  263,  268, 
271,  275  sq.,  279.  289,  291,  297,  303, 
309,  313  sq.,  317,  319,  322  sqq.,  326, 
331  sq.,  335,  339  sqq.,  345  sq.,  349  sq., 
355,  357,  365,  373,  377,  385,  388,  392, 
396,  399,  402,  409,  422,  424,  435,  447, 
449,  462  sq.,  4S6  sq.,  498  sq.,  510  sq., 
525,  570  sq.,  585,  583. 


Gettysburg,  479,  510,  525  sq.,  548,  570  sq. 

"  Glashaus,"  N.  J.,  402. 

Goschenhoppen  (AltGoschenhoppen),  28, 
30  sqq.,  35,  39,  130  sq.,  139,  142,  144, 
199,  202,  207,  230,  236,  261,  268,  271, 
275,  278,  286,  301,  303,  319,  340,  345, 
355,  386,  392,  397,  410  sq.,  423,  436, 
446,  sq.,  462,  487,  525,  546. 

Great  Cove,  272. 

Great  Spring,  287. 

Great  Valley,  404. 

Greenbrier  Co.,  W.  Va.,  363,  477. 

Greencastle  (Griinkastel),  281,  283,  289, 
304,  3U9,  318  sq.,  329,  332,  335,  341, 
349,  355,  365  sq.,  385,  388,  392,  396, 
398,  403,  409,  411,  435,  445,  447,  473, 
475,497,  499,  509,  511,  525  sq.,  645, 
548,  553,  557,  569,  571. 

Greenfield,  481,  531. 

Greensburg  (Griinsburg,  Griinsbourg), 
284,  287,  290,  298,  318,  320,  323,  335, 
351,  365,  367,  386,  393. 

Green  Twp.,  Scioto  Co.,  O.,  502. 

Greenville,  Va.,  332,  335,  341,  343,  345. 

Greenwich  (Grinvitsch.Griinvitsch)  Twp., 
Berks  Co.,  64,  272  sq.,  276,  278,  317, 
489. 

Greenwich  (Grinvitsch,Griinvitsch)  Twp., 
Warren  Co.,  N.  J.,  70,  104  sq.,  122, 
158,  161,  181,  186.  191,  193.  199,  202, 
207,  214,  230  sq.,  238,  247,  264,  277. 

Greenwood,  465,  471. 

"  Gross  Eyland."  357. 

Guernsey  Co.,  O.  441. 

Guilford  Co.,  N.  C,  319. 

Gwynedd  (Gwinett,  Guinett)  Twp.,  Mont- 
gomery Co..  210,  260,  268,  277,  322, 
342,  352,  415. 

HACKENSACK,  N.  J.,  70  sq. 
Hacksbill,  309. 

Hagerstown  (Haegerstown,  Hegerstadt, 
Hegerstown,  Haegerstadt),  Md.,  177, 
181  sqq.,  191,  199,  202,  213,  230,  232, 
237,  244  sq.,  262,  273,  282  sq.,  286,  289 
sq„  298,  301,  303,  308  sq.,  319,  323, 335, 
340  sq.,  345,  349  sq.,  355,  360,  362,  365 
sq.,  371,  373  sq.,  377,  385,  387  sq.,  392, 
396,  398  sq.,  402,  410sq.,  416,  418,  423 
sq.,  436, 438, 447,  462,  479, 484,  486  sq., 
489,  498  sq.,  510  sq.,  526,  546,  548,  557, 
560,  570,  588. 

Halbrend,  502. 

Halifax  Twp.,  Dauphin  Co.,  390,  394. 

Halle,  3,  21,  50,  97,  123,  208  sq.,  28S,  302, 
321,  468,  476,  494. 

Hamburg,  263,  489,498,  525,  546,  548. 

Hamilton  Twp.,  Monroe  Co.,  416,  486  sq. 

Hamilton  Twp.,  Northampton  Co.  (?),  342, 
364,  402  sq. 

Hampshire,  Md.  (?),  404. 

Hanover  (Hanovertown) ;  see  also  Mac- 
Allister,  227,  230  sq.,  236,  268,  275, 
277,  282  sq.,  289  sq.,  303,  322,  331  sq., 
335,  345,  349,  362,  365  sq„  373,  377, 
385,  387,  392  sq.,  397  sqq.,  402, 424, 429, 
435,  474  sq.,  4S5,  497,  525  sq.,  569,  571. 


INDEX  III. 


603 


Hanover  Twp.,  Luzerne  Co.,  418. 

Hanover  Tup.,  Northampton  Co.,  (?)  322 
sq.,  340,  374,  377,  3s7,  392,  396,  399. 

Harmony,  N.  J.,  403. 

Harrisbunr,  247,  282  sq.,  286,  290,  297,  303, 
309,  313,  317,  319,  321,  321,  333  Bq., 
339,  342,  346,  350,  356,  376sq.,  886  Bq., 
397  sq.,  404,  406,  409 sqq.,  423, 4  17, 449, 
468,  4.\">sqq.,  497,  4i'!',  605,  509,  511, 
524,  520,  536,  540,  548,  50!',  7.71,  577. 
5.^2. 

Haasinger's  illessinger's,  Hossinger's) 
Church,  356,  361,  304,  404,  587. 

Heidelberg,  28,  03  sq.,  70,  88,  90,  104  sq., 
Ill  Bq.,  117,  122,  130,  109,  203,  207, 
299. 

Hein's  Church,  412. 

Hellenburg,  N.  Y.,  247. 

Herold'a  Church,  284,  287. 

Hilltown,  352,  415,  426. 

Hockwerther's  (Hohwerther's,  Howar- 
der's)  Church,  301,  304,  368. 

Holston  ("Hea<l  of"),  Va.,  357. 

"  Holtzschwamm,"  234,  283,  403. 

Hudson,  N.  Y.,  264. 

Hummelstown,  112,  114,  333  sq.,  384,  404, 
43!>,  454,  531,  536,  546  sqq.,  556,  571. 

Huntingdon  (including  Huntingdon  Co.), 
315,  325,  333  sq.,  338,  343 Bq.,  347.  350, 
861,  303,  300  sqq.,  380,  393,  397  sq„ 
401,  404,  410sq.,  436,  447  sq.,  462,  479, 
481,  510,  531. 

Huntingdon  Co.,  502,  515  sq.,  525,  546. 

TN DIANA,  State  of,  573. 

-L  Indianfield  (Indianland),  28,  30,  35, 
;;:',  61,  68,  70  sqq.,  131,  141  sqq.,  17.S, 
181,  191,  193,  213,  260,  263,  279,  301, 
304  sq.,  313  Bq.,  323,  424. 

Irish  Settlement,  178. 

JACKSONVILLE,  547. 
«J      Jacob's  Church,  Md.,  204,  277,  281, 

403. 
Jacob's  Church,  Berks  Co.,  334,  337,  355, 

4ii4. 
Jacob's  Church,  York  Co.,  227,  362,  402. 
Jacob's  Creek,  287. 
Jefferson  Co.,  Ky.,  530,  556.  573,  577. 
Jefferson  Co.,  O.,  391,  403,  441. 
Jerusalem  Church,  227,  333,  403. 
Johannia  Church,  Md.  (?),  378. 
Johannia  Church,  Pa.,  355. 
Johannis  Church,  Va.,  363,  375,  386. 
Johnstown,  526,  530,  547,  570. 
Jonestown  (Johnstown),  208,  290  sq.,  297, 

2:':-sq.,  304,  856,   362,402,  410,  412, 

423,  43o,  439,    147,  462,  474,  4S0,  498 

sq.,  529,  540,  547  sq.,  670. 
Jordan,  70,  88,  104  sqq.,  152,  188,  204,269, 

271    304  bo.,  329,  498  Bq.,  546. 
Jungman's    (Jungmanstown,    Jungman- 

stadt,  Junians),  306,  319,  403,  555. 

KELLER'S  CHURCH,  342,  350,  301. 
Kcuiuierling's  Church,  303. 


Kentucky,  State  of,  231,  428,  460,  465  sq., 

565,  57.'!. 
Kessler's  Church,  272  sqq. 
Kingsessing  (Kingccss),  59  sq. 
"  Kleindienat,"  402. 
dinger's  Church,  368. 
Klopp'e  Church    300. 
Kuowltown  (Nolltovvn,  Molltown),  N.  J., 

2lo,  2U4,  356. 
Knoxville,  Tenii.,  357. 
Krauter's  church,  403. 
Kreisch  [Kreischer),  203,  405. 
Kutztown,  263,  423,  136,  447  sq.,  4P1  sq., 

4.s5,  487,  497,  499,  540,  548,  509,  571, 

580. 

T  AXCASTER,  3,  5,  7,  9  sq.,  12,  24,  27 

-*— ^  sqq.,  34  sq.,  41,  45,  49  Bq.,  56,  58  sqq., 
63  6qq.,  7o  Bq.,  79  sq.,  88,  91,  94,  103 
sqq.,  112,  123,  128,  130,  138  sq.,  14  1, 
148  sq.,  151,  157,  177,  180  sqq.,  186, 
191  sq.,  194  sqq.,  198,  202,  207,  210  sq., 
213,  230,  230,  242  sq.,  200  sq.,  21 
sqq.,  275  sq.,  279,  282  sq.,  285,  289,  297 
Bq.,  303  sq.,  308  sq.,  313,  317,  319,  322, 
324  sq.,  331  sq.,  335,  340,  342,  344  sq., 
349,  351,  350,  305  sqq.,  369  sq.,  373  sq., 
376,  382,  385,  387,  390,  392,  396,  398 
sq.,  402, 410  sq.,  414,  422,  429, 435, 4  4;;, 
448,  41S4  sqq.,  492,  497,  499,  509,  511, 
617,  524,  520.  537  sq.,  545,  548,  554, 
559,  569,  571,575,  581  sq. 

Langen's  Church,  357. 

Langsdorf  s  Church,  272  sq.,  278,  439. 

Laugstown  (Lang's),  319,  304,  559. 

Langstauffer's  Church,  299. 

Leacock  Twp.,  Lancaster  Co.,  510, 525  sq., 
547  sq.,  670. 

Lebanon,  00,  63  sq.,  105,  133  sq.,  139,  141, 
177,  192,  198,  202,  207,  213,  223,  225, 
230,  237,  245,  262,  273,  276,  278  sq., 
283,  286,  289  sq.,  293,  297  sq.,  303  sq., 
308  sq.,  313sq.,  317,319,  323,331,335, 
340  sq.,  345,  349  sq.,  355,  362,  365  sq., 
373  sq.,  377,  382,  385,  387  sq.,  392,  396, 
398  sq.,  409,  411,  422,  429,  435,  446, 
448,  484  sqq.,  492,  497,  499,  509,  511, 
517,  524,  526,  537  *q.,  545,  548,  554, 
559,  509,  571.  575,  581  sq. 

Lehigh  (Lecha)  Twp..  Northampton  Co., 
498,  510  Bq.,  525,  546. 

Lehman's  Church,  405. 

Letterkenny,  325. 

Lewisbur^,  333,  424. 

Lewistown,  406,  471. 

Lexington,  Ky.,  280. 

Limestone,  Ky.,  280. 

Limetown,  Pa'.,  130,  139. 

Linden,  199. 

Lisbon  (Lisburn),  O. ;  see  New  Lisbon. 

Lisbnrn  (Lisbon),  Pa.,  410. 

Little  Cove,  579. 

Little  Lehigh  (Lecha),  343,  346. 

Little  Muschannon,  485,  cf.  Muskannon. 

I.ohilli?!.  424. 

Longstaff  ?),  4nl. 

Loudon  Co.,  Va.,  352,  375,  378  sq.,  405, 


604 


INDEX  III. 


412,  418,  423,  43G,  448,  474  sq.,  486, 
498,  525. 

Lower  Bermudian  (UuterPermudian);see 
also  Bermudian,  188,  281,  287. 

Lower  Milford,  264,  271. 

Lower  Saucoa,  364,  403. 

Lower  Settlement,  188. 

Lunenburg,  Nova  Scotia,  96  sqq.,  132. 

Luzerne  Co.,  436,  453. 

Lykens  Valley  (Lykinsthal,  Lykensthal, 
Leichensthal,  Leukensthal),  272,  299, 
361,  375,  400  sq.,  410  sqq.,  415  sqq., 
423  sq.,  426,  447,  449,  452  sq.,  456,  462, 
467,  474  sqq.,  486,  498,  510  sq.,  525, 
531  sq.,  546,  570  sq. 

Lynn  Twp.,  Lehigh  Co.,  489. 

MACALLISTER  (McAllistertown)  ;see 
also  Hanover,  122,  126,  130,  139, 
186,  191, 193,  199,  202,  207,  214,  237, 
285,  306,  308  sq.,  312,  319,  447,  498 
sq. 

MacConnellsburg  (McConnellstown,  Mc- 
Connelsville),  403,  452,  554,  557,  571. 

Macungie  (Macunshy,  Makunschy),  28, 
30,  35,  70,  88,  90,  104  sq.,  Ill,  114,  122, 
130,  139,  177,  1S6,  191,  199,  207,  213, 
236,  264,  275,  277,  297,  301,  304,  317, 
319,  343,  346,  390  sq.,  394,  397  sq.,  405, 
410,  423  sq.,  436,  447  sq.,  461,  474,  486 
sq..  498  sq.,  510  sq.,  515  sq.,  526,  528, 
556,  570. 

Madison  Co.,  Va.,  498sq.,  510,  525  sq.,  546, 
548. 

Mahanoy  (Maehanai,  Mahanai),  1S2,  278, 
280,  299  361. 

Manchester,  71,  422,  436,  446,  448,  473, 
475,  485,  497,  499,  509,  511,  525  sq., 
546,  548. 

Manheim,  Berks  Co.,  386  sqq.,  392,  394, 
397  sq.,  405,  410. 

Manheim  (Moheini),  Lancaster  Co.,  105, 
122,  126,  137, 154,  177  sq.,  181  sq.,  188, 
191,  199,  215,  226,  231,  262,  270,  279, 
284,  287,  319,  324,  346,  349,  368,  383, 
386,  388  sq.,  392,  397,  400,  402,  412, 
415,  426. 

Manheim,  York  Co.,  333. 

Mark's  (Marck's)  Church,  305,  310,  479. 

Marietta,  462  sq.,  474  sq. 

Martinsburg,  W.  Va.,  260,  264,  266,  269, 
282,  285,  289,  30.3  sq.,  308,  316,  367, 
405,  421,  489,  498,  510  sq.,  526,  547, 
556. 

Martin's  Church,  281,  355. 

Maryland.  State  of,  199  sq.,  214. 

Maxe  Church,  536,  556. 

Maxatawny,  236. 

Maytown,  114,  123,  188,  316,  324,375,  384, 
386  sqq.,  390,  392,  397,  404,  410  sq., 
426,  439. 

Mead vi lie,  453,  458, 469,  479,  484,  486,  490, 
510,  529,  570. 

Mechanicsburg,  525,  548. 

Mechanics  town,  498  sq.,  510  sq. 

Meeting  House,  291,  319,  364,  403. 

Menallen  Twp.,  Adams  Co.,  214. 


Mercer  Co.,  478. 

Mercersburg,  281,  403. 

Meriou  Twp.,  Montgomery  Co.,  402. 

"  Merz  Church,"  308. 

Meyerstown  (Mayerstown),  438. 

Miami,  389,  391. 

Middleburg    (Mittelberg),   323,  367,   3S6 

sqq.,  392,  397  sqq.,  404,  410  sq.,  423 

sq.,  436,  447  sq.,  461  sq. 
Middlecreek  (Mittelcriek),  332,  335. 
Middletown   (Mitteltowu),   Md.,  also  re- 
ferred to  as   Middletown,   Va.,  284, 

287,  289  sq.,  298,  309,  324,  332.  335, 

340,  342,  345,  351,  356,  363,  365  sq., 

374,  377,  386,  396,  399,  403,  436,  446, 

473,  475,  497,  509,  533,  547. 
Middletown,  Pa.,  297,  316,  324,  468,  476, 

546,  548,  559. 
Mifflinburg,  333.  558. 
Mifflin  Co.   (Mifflin),  368,  404,  412,  425, 

427,  466,  486  sq.,  498  sq.,  510  sq.,  525 

sq.,  546,  555,  570  sq. 
Milford ;  see  also  Upper  Milford,  533. 
Millcreek,  281. 
Millerstown,  Pa.,  402. 
Millerstown,  Va.,  282,  308,  448,  474. 
Milton,  501. 
Mohr's  (More's)   Church,  316,   356,  361, 

404. 
Molatton  (Malatte),  63. 
Monongalia  (Monongehela)  Co.,  W.  Va., 

366,  477. 
Moore  Twp.,  Northampton  Co.,  158,  161, 

207,  36 1,  403. 
Morlach's  Church.  Md.,  512,  522. 
Morgan  town,  W.  Va.,  266. 
Morrison's  Cove  (Morris  Cove),  368,  400 

sq.,  481. 
Morristown,  404. 
Mosellem  ( Misillum.  Messillum),  177, 181, 

191,  193,  199,  202,   207,  214,  220  sq., 

230,  236,  260,  263,  268,  275,  277,  313, 

317,  319,  322,  341,  346,  349,  385,  387, 

392,  576. 
Mosser's  Valley  (Mosserthal),  404. 
Mount  Bethel.  364,  403,  416,  447,  449,  462 

sq.,  474,  478,  487. 
Mount  Jov.  137,  188,  226,  240,  247,  269, 

271,  282,  284,  298,  390.  404. 
Muddy  Creek  (Modenkrick,  Modecrieck, 

Modekrick),  70.  182,  209,  263,  270,  284, 

287,  363,  403,  454. 
Midler's  Church,  281. 
Muncv  (Mundsen)  Twp.,  Lycoming  Co., 

325,357,404. 
Muskannon,  see  also   Little  Muschauon, 

509. 
Muskingum  Co.,  O.,  441. 

NAZARETH,  277,  306. 
Nelson  Co.,  Ky.,  500,  530,  556,  573. 
Nescopeck,  556. 

Neshaminy  (Chamoni,  Schemini),  35,  39. 
New  Allemangel,  272  sq. 
Newark,  N.  J.,  74. 
Newberry  Twp.,  York  Co.,  272,  501. 
New  Berlin,  403. 


INDEX  III. 


605 


Newburg,  84. 

Newcastle,  Del,  151. 

New  Qermantown,  N.  J.,  64,  70  sq„  84, 

104  sq.,  122,  126,  186,  L91,  234. 
New  Qermantown,  <>.,  4S4. 
New  Qoeehenhoppen,  39,  131,  159,  200, 

215,  240,  204,  272  sq.,  270,  27Nsq.,  2^2, 
290,  297  sq.,  314,  319,  356,  405. 

New  Hanover  (sometimes  referred  to  as 
Hanover  ;  see  also  Faulkner's  Swamp, 
3,  7,  9sq.,  24.  28,  30,  33,  36,  42 sq.,  48, 
60,  62  Bqq.,  70,  86  sqq.,  l<>4  sq.,  112, 
123,  130  sq.,  153,  166,  157  sqq.,  178, 
L86,  191,  193,  198  Bqq.,  209,  215,  221, 
227,  230,  235  sq.,  238,  260  sqq.,  268 
sqq.,  278,  314,  317,  319,  322  sq.,  331 
sq.,  335,  34U  sq.,  345,  349  sq.,  3-35,  373 
sq.,  377,  389,  394,424,  449. 

New  Holland  (llollaud);  see  also  Earl- 
town,  178,  188,  199,  201,  207,  209,  214, 

216,  230,  236,  260,  263,  268,  270,  291, 
304sq.,  309,  319sq.,  323,  329,  3-i2,  335, 
340,  345,  349,  363,  365,  374,  377,  385, 
387,  392,  396,  399,  403,409,411,  423 
sq.,  435,  452,  454,  462  sq.,  474  sq.,  486 
sq.,  498,  510,  525,  546,  548,  570* 

New  Jersey,  State  of,  3,  60,  63,  184,  279. 

New  Lancaster,  423,  428. 

New  Lisbon  (Lisburn),  O.,  386,  436,  448, 

497. 
Now  Madrid,  O.  (7),  357. 
Newmarket,  Va.,  3o2,  365  sq.,  373,  386, 

396,  409,  429. 
New  Pennsylvania,  O.,  357. 
New  Philadelphia,  498. 
New  Providence;  see  Providence. 
Newry,  502. 

Newstore,  510,  521,  526,  547  sq. 
Newton,  N.  J.,  366. 
Newtown  (Newstadt,  Neustadt),  Va.,  264, 

3«2,  402. 
Newville,  533,  547  Bq„  570  sq. 
New  Virginia,  381,  383,  442. 
New  York  (City),  33,  45sq.,59sq.,  62 sqq., 

69  sqq.,  75,  94,  99,  104,  130,  135  sq., 

139,  143,  149,  191,  194,  207,  230,  236, 

260,  263,  269,  276,  290,  293,  Ml 3, 343 sq., 

350,  .".7.".,  386.  4110,  435,  447,  478,  529. 
Nice  (Nicen's,  Weiseu's)  Church,  320,323, 
Nittany  Valley,  522. 
Nockamixon,  342,  361,  364,  424. 
Nordkill  (Nordkiel);  see  also  Berne,  3, 

7,  10,  24,   63  sq.,  71,  144,  222,   3  10, 
.',  394,  397  Bqq.,  406,  HOsq.,  415, 
Northampton  Co.,  186,  199,  209,  365,  385, 

425,  131,  4  17,  449,  462  sq.,  486  -q. 
Nortli  Carolina.  State  of,  244,  319,  375 sq., 

378  sq.,   389,  470,  478,  482,  488,  524, 

527,  538,  550. 
Northumberland  Co.,  323,  400,  402,  405, 

454. 
North  Wales  I  Northwalsch,  Welsch),200, 

295,  319,  427, 
Nova  Scotia,  96  sqq.,  132. 

"r\BWALl  TWP.,"  361. 
V-/     Octorara,  183,  403. 


Ohio,  State  of,  370,  375  sq.,  386,  3S9  sq., 
393,  397,  400  sq.,  426,  428,  442,  447 
sq.,  454,  460,  466,  468,  500,  506,  552. 

Oley,  62,  71  sq.,  570. 

<  tpoSBUm  (reek,  277. 

( trwigsburg,  546. 

Owen's  Creek,  123,  127. 

"OARADISE,  71,  7!',  188,  287,  309,319 

J-       sq.,  323,  332,  335,  344. 

Pawlingskill,  N.  J.,  199,  201. 

Paxton,  368. 

Peaked  Mountain  (Picket  Mountain), 
Va.,  283,  290,  304. 

Pennsbomugh  (Pennsbnrg),  see  also  East 
Pennsborough,  284,  498,  510  sq. 

Pennsbrook,  Va,,  362. 

Pennshill,  273,  278,  280. 

Penn  Twp.,  Northampton  Co.,  332,  403. 

Penn  Valley,  270,  280,  300,  305,  310, 
548. 

Pequea,  363. 

Perkaaie  (Birkensee),  30  sq. 

Peter's  Church,  287,  363,  403,  439. 

Petersburg,  502. 

Philadelphia,  O.,  479. 

Philadelphia,  Pa.,  3  sqq.,  12  sq.,  24,  28 
sqq.,  33,  35,  45,  50,  59,  61  sqq.,  68  sqq., 
72,  75,  81,  83  6q.,  88,  91,  103  sqq.,  127 
sqq.,  137,  139  sqq.,  143,  14(5,  149,  161, 
153,  161,  177,  181,  186,  189,  191,  193 
sq.,  198,  200,  2o2,  206  sq.,  210,  213, 
230,  234  sqq.,  240,243,  246,  260  sq., 
263,  268  sqq.,  272,  275  sq.,  27'.',  282 
sq.,  2S5,  289  sq.,  297  sq.,  302  sqq., 
309,  311,  313  sq.,  317,  319,  322  tq., 
325,  331  sq.,  335,  340  sqq.,  345,  349 
sq.,  355  sq.,  360, 365  sqq.,  369, 373 sqq., 
387  sq.,  392,  396,  398,  400,  402, 
409,  411  eq.,  417,  422,  424,  429,  435, 
44i;,  44S,  461  sq.,  468,  473  sq.,  482, 
485  sq.,  488,  490  sq.,  513  sqq.,  524, 
626,  531,  546  sq.,  574  sq.,  586, 

Pickaway  (1'aekaway)  Co.,  O.,  439. 

Pigeon  Creek,  40O  sq. 

Pikeland  (Peikstown,  Pikestown),  88,104 
sq.,  112,  118,  122  sq.,  127,  131  sq.,  141 
sq.,  144,  177,  181,  191  sq.,  207.  213, 
230,  236,  269,  306,  314  sq.,  325,  333 sq., 
342,  350,  355,  386,  392,  409,  42;;  sq., 
41o,473,  610  sq.,  521,  526,  531,545, 
517  sq.,  669  sq. 

Pine  Grove  Twp.,  Sclmvlkill  Co.,  833  sq., 
387,  350,  447,  44:',  462  sq.,  498  sq. 

Pine  Badge  (Peintritsch),  281. 

Pipe  Creek,  94. 

Pittsburg,  455,  462,  474. 

Plainfield  Twp.,  Northampton  Co.,  364, 
.  387  sq.,  392,  899,  103,  409,  412, 
415,  422  sq.,  435,  446,  498,  510sq.,547 
sq.,  658.  5,  0. 

Points  (reek  t"  Points  Erick  "),  122. 

Pottsgrove  Twp.,  Montgomery  (<>.,  423 
sq.,  436,  447  sq.,  462,  474,  509,  511, 
5  1 5. 

PottBtown,  410,  571. 

Powellstlml,  Va.,  2o7. 


606 


INDEX  III. 


Providence  (New  Providence),  see  also 
Trappe,  .3,  7,  9  sq.,  13,  24,  27  sq.,  30, 
33,  35,  39,  44,  48,  62  sqq.,  70,  77,  84, 
87  sq.,  104  sq.,  112,  118,  122,  127,  131, 
158,  161,  184,  262  sq.,  271. 

QUICKEL'S  CHURCH,  247,  262,  264, 
269,  271,  403. 
Quiertown,  281. 

RACOON,  N.  J.,  59,  64,  71. 
Ramapo  (Remmersbach),  N.  J.,  70. 

Raritan,  N.  J.,  27  sqq.,  39,  45  sq.,  59,  62. 

Read  Creek,  309. 

Reading,  39,49,  59  sq.,  63,  70  sqq.,  75,  84, 
88,  103  sqq.,  118  sq.,  121,  125,  134  sq., 
141  sqq.,  151,  154,  178,  183,  186,  191, 
193,  196,  199,  202,  207,  213.  2  7,  219, 
224,  236,  260  sq.,  263,  265,  268  sq., 
271,  275,  277,  282  sqq.,  291,  297,  303, 
316,  319,  322  sq.,  330,  332,  335,  339, 
341,  346,  350,  356,  365,  374  sq.,  386, 
397,  404,  410,  423  sq.,  436,  441,  448, 
461  sq.,  473,  485  sq.,  497,  499,  509,  511, 
546,  548,  569,  580. 

Red  Land  (Rothland),  287. 

Redstone,  179,  266,  269,  271,  273,  283,  289 
sq.,  309. 

Reitz's  Church,  404. 

Rennsallaer,  N.  Y.,  247. 

Rhinebeck,  N.  Y.,  70  sq. 

Richmond  Twp.,  Berks  Co.,  63,  75,  88, 
263. 

Rickert's  Church,  439. 

Ridge,  284,  287. 

Ried's  (Rieth's)  Church,  277,  402,  439. 

Ringer's  Church  (Ringert's)  Va.,  2S7,  3G3, 
493. 

Riter's  Church,  280. 

Rockfish  Gap,  Va.,  337. 

Rockingham  (Rackenheim)  Co.,  Va.,  192, 
297,  309,  323,  329,  337,  375,  378,  386, 
389,  391,  400  sq.,  407,  412,  415,  448, 
474,  498,  571,  578. 

Rockland  Twp.,  Berks  Co.,  263,  303. 

Rocky  Hill  (Rockhill)  Twp.,  Bucks  Co. 
(?),  130. 

Roeder's  Church,  Va.,  287. 

RohrerBburg,  402. 

"  Rosenthal,"  122,  125. 

Rowan,  N.  C,  350. 

Row's  (Rauen's,  Rau's),  356,  361,  364,  559. 

Rupho,   264. 

Rye  Twp.,  Cumberland  Co.,  419,  455. 

q.YLEU  CHURCH,  Va.,  266,  333,  337, 

*-J     35.5,  363,  404,  555. 

Salisbury  Twp.,  Lancaster  Co.,  9. 

Salsburg  (Salisbury,  Saltzburg)  Twp.,  Le- 
high Co.,  90,  104,  111,  114,  122,  264, 
266,  278,  405,  425,  427. 

Saltzburg;  Twp.,  Northampton  Co.  (?), 
342  sq. 

Samuelis  Church,  455. 

Sanders'  Church,  455. 

Battler's  (Sadler's)  Church,  247,  264,  278, 
281,  287,  325,  363,  403. 


Saucon  (Saccum,  Saccona),  see  also  Upper 

Saueon,  3,  7,  10,  28  sq.,  64,  70  sqq.,  88, 

90,   104,   111,  114,   264,266,277,  319, 

405. 
Schaeferstown    (Schaeferstadt),  122,  126, 

263,  277,  402,  416,  423,  436,  449. 
Schauman's  Church,  Md.,  287. 
Scherersburgj  405. 
Scherer's  Church,  284,  291,  295,  300,  316 

sq.,  325,  355,  551,  558. 
Schnebley's  Church,  363. 
Schocholy,  533. 
Schupp's  Church,  419. 
Schiitzen's  Church,  272  sq.,  278. 
Schuster's  Church,  245,  247,  264,  278,  281, 

287,  325,  363,  403. 
Schuylkill  Co.,  486  sq.,  532. 
"  Schwartz wald,"  404. 
"  Schwaben  Criek,"  299. 
Seller's  Church,  327. 
Selinsgrove  (Silsgrove),  317,  356,  361,  364, 

404,  474  sq.,  485,  487,  497,  499,  559. 
Shamokin,  144,  152,  181,  192,194,227,233 

sq.,  404. 
Sharpsburg  (Scherpsburg),  Md.,  94,  287, 

355. 
Shenandoah  Co.,  Va,,  192,  227,  260  sq., 

269,   290,  297,  301,    304,  314  sq  ,  317, 

323,  329,  332,  335,  340,  345,  349. 
Sheppardstown    (Scheppertstown,    Shep- 

herdstown,  Shepherdsbure),  Va.,  199, 

201,  264,  284,  323,  325,  367,  405,  421, 

489,  548. 
Shepp's  Church,  412. 
Sherman's  Dale  (Schiermansthal,  Scher- 

man's)  Valley,  2S4,  287,  290,  404,  488 

sq. 
Shippensburg  fSchippenstown),  178,  226, 

237,   239,   284  sq.,   293  sqq.,   301,  316 

sq.,  325,  404. 
Silver  Run,  Md.,  192,  403. 
Sinking  Valley,  368,  404,  481,502,  510sq., 

526,  547,  570  sq. 
Smithfield,  403,  416. 
Smithfield   (Schmidtfield),  W.  Va.,   310, 

367,  405. 
Solomon's  Church,  363,  366. 
Somerset  Co.,  365,  367,  393,  447  sq.,  455, 

4S6,  498,  525,  532,  546,  553  sq.,  570. 
South  Branch,  W.  Va.,  477. 
Speiser's  (Snvse)  Church,  308,  404. 
Springfield  Twp.,  Bucks  Co.,   280,   299, 

327,  342,  346,  350,  356,  361,  364,  386 

sq.,  392,  410,  423,  436,  446,  461   sq., 

486  sq.,  497,  499,  510,  546,  548,  569. 
Spruce  Creek,  361,  368,  404,  502. 
Stah  ley's  (Stehle's)  Church,  264,  363, 439, 

533,  550,  557. 
Stark  Co  ,  O.,  438. 

Stauffertown,  Md.,  178,  264,  362,  402. 
Staunton  (Stenton,  Stentown),  Va.,  282, 

308,  351,  448. 
Stein's  Church,  Va.,  264. 
Steiner's  Church,  280.  363. 
Steltzen's  Church,  Md.,  27S,  281,  287,  333, 

337.  363. 
Stettler's  Church,  O.,  469. 


INDEX  III. 


607 


Btrasbnrg,  Franklin  Co.,  540,  558. 
Btrasburg,  Lancaster  Co.,  187  sq.,  270, 350, 
403,  464,  460,  462,  488,  498,  525,  570. 

Strasburg,  Va.,  192,  194. 

Btoyestown,  455,  55 1. 

Stumpstown,  629,  540. 

Sugar  Creek,  O.,  479. 

Sunbury,  425,  439,  447,  449,  462,  436  sq., 

510  sq.,  54<i,  54\  570. 
Swamp  I  Schwamm )  Church,  403, 412, 416, 

439,  454,  474,4m;  sq. 
Swatara  ;  see  also  Atolheo,  71. 
"  Swiitneugap,"  Va.,  264. 

rpANEYTOWN    (Tawneytonn,   Tarry- 

-*-  town,  Danetown,  Dannitown,  Danny- 
town,  Downeytown,  Downingtown), 
Md.,  122  sq.,  246,  261,  269,  271,  275, 
277,  284,  291,  312,  319,  322,  332,  341, 
350, 365  sq.,  374, 377, 386. 396, 398, 403, 
436,  448.  47:!,  47."-,  485,  497,  499,  625  sq. 

Tennessee,  State  of,  370,  389,419,428,565. 

Thomas  Creek;  see  also  Emmittsburg, 
Mil.,  94,  122,  264,  277,  403. 

Tinicum  Twp..  Backs  Co.,  327,  342,  361. 

Tohiekon  (Toheka),  28,  39,  41,  45,  131, 
139,  141  sqq.,  200,  263,  278,  280,  301, 
314,  317. 

Tolvin  Twp.m,  488. 

Towamensin  Twp.,  Montgomery  Co.,  403. 

Trapp,  Va.,  303. 

Trappe,  Pa.;  see  also  Providence,  461, 473, 
485  sq.,  197,  499. 

Trend,  l's  tTrentel's)  Church,  287,  404. 

Trexler's  Church,  239. 

Trough  Creek,  404. 

Trumbaner's  Church,  272  sq.,  278. 

Trumbull  Co.,  ().,  391,  403. 

Tucker  Valley,  522. 

Tulpehocken,  3,  5,  9  sqq.,  21  sqq.,  27  sqq., 
39,  46,  60,  63  Bq.,  68,  70,  72,  88,  90  sq,, 
103  Bqq.,  Ill,  113  Bqq.,  117,  126,  129, 
139,  150,  155  sq.,  177,  181,  IStJ,  191, 
193,  198  Bqq.,  207,  213,  230,  236,  248, 
256,  259,  263,  265,  282  sq.,  297  sq.,  303 
sq.,308  Bq.,  313  sq.,  317,  319,  322  sqq., 
.  349,  373,  385,  387,  392,  400  sq., 
412,  415  sqq.,  425  sq.,  429,  436,  447, 
449,  462  sq.,  474  Bq.,  486  sq.,  498  sq., 
501  sq.,  525  sq.,  546,  648,  669. 

Tuscarora  Valley,  332  sq.,  336  sq.,  404, 
466,  171. 

Twien  Church,  O.,  469. 

Tyrone  Twp.,  Blair  Co.,  301,  502. 

TTNION  CO..  546,  570. 
*-'      Upper    Bermudiau    fOber   Permu- 
•lian   :  Bee  also  Bermudian,  188, 
264,  290,  337. 
Upper  Dublin,  61,  70,  200,  210,  277,  295, 

402. 
Upper  Mil  ford  (Uppermilfort),  3,  7,  10, 
28,  30  7ii,  7:',  88,  90,  L04,  111,  114,264, 
2G6.  2C9,  271,  276,  278,  369,  405. 
Upper  E  tecum    ;  Bee  also  Saueon, 

46,  21  '  .  369. 

Upper  Windsor;  see  also  Windsor,  115. 


T7"EYK,  N.  Y.,  347. 
'        Vincent  Twp.,  Chester  Co.,  (13,  315, 
31!',  340,  315  sq.,  374,  521,  531,  545, 
517. 
Virginia,  State  of,  136  sq.,  144,  155,  178, 
192  Bqq.,  199,  201,  214,  230,  2:>7.  261, 
2>;i  sqq.,  27(1,  28  l,  287,  309,  319  sq., 
342,  .v.!)  sq.,  365,  367,  376,  389  sq.,  401, 
414,  42H,  466,  47.'!,  488,  531,  570  sq. 
Vollmer'e  Church;  see  Folmer's  Church. 

WALDSBORO  (Waldsburg),  Me.,  383, 
448. 

Wallkill  iWahlkiel),  N.  J.,  70. 

Wallpaek,  M.  .J.,  356. 

Warrington,  ."..";. 

Warry  Run,  601. 

Warwick  Twp..  Lancaster  Co.,  88, 114  sq., 
117,  122,  126,  130,  178  251,  265,  402, 
412,  415  sq.,  424,  447,  462  mi.,  486  sq., 
498,  546,  548,570  sq. 

Washington  Co.,  400  sq.,  430,  441,  447, 
449,  455,  474. 

Washington  Twp.,  Northumlerland  Co., 
501. 

Weigemerck,  301. 

WeiBenburg  Twp.,  Lehigb  Co.,  i?2,  125, 
264,  278,  304,  314,  319,  323,  328,  340, 
345. 

Werth's  Church;  see  Paxton,  3C4,  3CS, 
384. 

Wenrich's  (Wenriek's,  Weinrich's) 
Church,  277,  352,  404,  576. 

Westminster,  Md.,  526,  547  sq. 

Westmoreland,  Va.,  17s. 

Westmoreland  Co.,  Pa.,  221,  314.  335. 

Whitehall  (Whitehead,  Whitihiil)  Tup., 
Lehidi  Co.,  130,  139,  1  17,  177,  261, 
319,  323,  340,  345,  374,  377,  386,  392, 
410  Bq.,  422,  421,  436,  44G,  474. 

White  Marsh,  70,  104. 

Whitendahl ;  see  also  Richmond,  71.  88. 

W bite  Oak  (Weiseichen,  Weiseichenland), 
122,  126,  21i),  2  17.  264,  400,  402,  405. 

Whitpain  (Whitpen,  Whitepene,  Wippan, 
Weeping  i  Twp.,  Montgomery  Co., 210, 
242,  268,  277,  29  6,  389, 

392,  399,  401  sq.,  412,  415,  425  sq.,  436, 
447,  449,  462  sq.,  186,  525. 

Wicaco  |  Wicae),  I  .  12!',  139. 

Wilkesbarre,  502. 

Williamsburg,  631. 

Williainspori    (Williamsburg),   Md.,  287, 
?).  489. 

Williams  Twj>.  (Williamstown),  North- 
ampton Co..  2  17.  26  I,  271, 
275  Bqq.,  282,  290,  2:7,  303,  ::o8  sq., 
314,  317, 

Wilmington,  Del.,  45,  59,  63  sq.,  71. 

Winchester,  Va.,  71.  74  sq.,  '.'2  Bq.,  192, 
1-',  213,  220,  264,  269,  284,  331, 
341,  346,  350,  3  .  373,  :;7'i, 

380,   "'2,  429,    137,   H7,    153,    171  sq., 
498,  626,  546. 

Windsor  Twp.,  Berks  Co.,  263,  283,  4S9. 

Winter's  Church,  264,  277,   I 

Wolf's  Church,  262,  403. 


603 


INDEX   III. 


Womelsdorf,  322,  340,  402,  415,  510  sq., 

526,  647. 
Woodcock  Valley,  375,  404. 
YVoodburv,  Md.,  322  sq.,  375,  378  sq.,  405, 

526.  " 
Woodstock,  Va.,  192,  194,  436,  474,  488. 
Wrightsville,  474  sq.,  486,  498  sq. 
Wythe  Co.,  Va.,  324,  332,  335,  338,  341, 

346,  350,  363,  393,  435,  448. 

YORK  (Yorktown),  3,  7,  24  sq.,  28sqq., 
66,  70sqq.,  73 sq.,  79,  93  sq.,  104,  111, 
113  sq.,  129,  139,  150  sq.,  157,  181, 
185  sq.,  188  sq.,  191  sqq.,  199,  202, 
207,  210,  213,  217,  223,  237,  244  sq., 
247,  260,  263,  268,  273,  282  sq.,  2S5, 


289,  291,  297  sq.,  303,  309,  313  sq., 
317,  319  sq.,  331  sq.,  335,  340  sqq., 
346,  349  &qq.,  362,  365  sqq.,  373  sq., 
376,  390,  403,  409,  411,  422,  424,  435, 
446,  448,  461,  473  sq.,   485  sq.,  4M3, 
497,  499,  509,  511,  524,  526,  545,  547, 
569,  571,  575,  582. 
York  Co.,  346,  350,  363,  365  sq.,  374,  377, 
447,  449,  455, 462,  474  sq.,  486,  498  sq., 
510,  533,  540,  546  sqq.,  550,  557,  569 
sqq.,  577,  588. 
Youngstown  (Jungmanstadt) ;  see  Jung- 
man's,  364,  403,  555. 

yiEGEL  CHURCH,  272  sq.,  278. 


INDEX  IV. 


LAY-DELEGATES  TO  SYNOD, 

With  Names  of  the  Congregations  which  they  Represented,  and 
Years  of  Service. 


Name.  Place.  Tear. 

A  CHINBACH,  HEINRICH Newville 1821 

-c*-    Albert Elizabethtown 1816 

Alleman,  Nikolaus Hummelstown 1820 

Altimus,  Joh Germantown 1801 

Anspach,  Balthes Tulpehocken 1748 

Appel,  Andreas Allentown 1814 

Appel Springfield 1816 

Appleman,  Joh •••...  Mew  Jersey 1702 

Arndt Bender's  Church 1809 

Alstatt,  Georg Luzerne  Co 1812 

"QAHRDT,  JACOB Woodbury 1819 

±J     Baldy,  Paul Sunbury 1794,  1813 

Bager Abbottstown 1815 

Bantleon,  G Philadelphia 1802 

Bardt,  Joh Greencastle 1803 

"  "      Hagerstown 1808 

Barnet,  Joh Easton 1808,  1818 

Barnitz,  Daniel Hanover 1809 

Barnitz,  Carl Hanover 1819,  1821 

Bart,  Joh Leacoek    ....••...  1820 

Bartner,  Joh Fissel's 1808 

Bauer,  Friedr Elizabethtown 1820 

Beaver Lebanon 1818 

Beck,  Nicolas Elizabethtown 1813 

Becker,  Georg  A Philadelphia 1S02 

Becker,  Heinrich Germantown 1802 

Becker,  Joh York  County 1820 

Rem.,  Balthes Saueon 174s,  i7.rM) 

BEIL,  JACOB Westminster 1820 

BEILSON,  Joh Easton 1805 

Bbislbr Goechenhoppen 1810 

BENDEL  (Brendel),  Freidrich Baltimore 1803,1806 

Benteman,  Joh Hamburg .1820 

BentlemAN Easton 1817 

Bekkheimer,  Heinrich 1807 

Berly Cumberland 1810 

Bey.  Christian Tolpehncken 1808 

Beyer,  Andreas Norokill 174S 

Beyer,  Carl  \ New  Hanover 1748 

39  609 


610  INDEX    IV. 

Name.  Place.  Year. 

Beyer,  Frederick Greencastle 1796 

Beyer,  Valentine New  Hanover 1807 

Bickel Reading 1818 

Bieber,  Joh Kutztown 1813 

" Penn's  Valley 1821 

Bieber,  Theobald Kutztown •  .  1S21 

Biedinger,  Nicolaus Conewago 1763 

Billmeyer,  Jacob York 1763 

Billmeyer(Brillmyer) York     . 1813 

Birnbaum Philadelphia 1815 

Blanck,  Georg  Adam New  Hanover 1805 

Blaser,  Peter Carlisle 1814 

Newville 1820 

Bogen,  Andr Frederick 1803,  1809 

Bohn,  Jacob Berlin,  Adams  County  .    .    .  1821 

Bordner,  Joh York  County 1813 

Braunig Macungie 1817 

Breitenbach Tulpehocken 1818 

Brendlinger New  Hanover 1811 

Brillinger York 1813 

Brotzman,  Frantz Hagerstown 1819 

Brotzman,  Joseph Bloomsburg 1820 

Brotzman Easton 1813 

Brua,  Peter Tulpehocken 1802 

"  "         Harrisburg 1821 

Brumbach Hagerstown 1811 

Bucher,  Jacob Lebanon 1804 

Busch,  Andreas Philadelphia 1814 

Buss,  Peter Hanover 1802 

pARL.  GEORGE McAllister 1S00 

^     Carr Macungie 1818 

Clark,  Samuel Greencastle 1817,  1820 

Conrad Mechanicsburg 1817 

Coultas Kingsessing 1762 

Croesman,  B Goschenhoppen 1750 

TlEIBERT,  MICHAEL Whitehall 1763 

-L^     Deily Plainfield 1818 

Degler Womelsdorf 1818 

Derr,  Philip Middletown 1803 

Dermuth,  Joh York .  1819 

Deutsch York .  1769 

Diehl,  Carl •  York  Co 1821 

Diehl,  Peter York 1799 

Dielshofer,  Michael Cohensy 1750 

Diery,  Georg     .    .   .    = Nice  Church 1802 

"  "  Pikeland 1821 

Diller,  Peter New  Holland 1799 

Drager,  F Nockamixon 1811 

Dreher,  Adam Bloomsburg 1814 

Dunkel York 1817 

Duy,  Jacob -Germantown.    .1813,1814,1818 

TpBERHARD,  BERNARD 1807 

Eberle,  Joh Philadelphia 1750 

Eberle,  Michael ,   .    .    .    .  Chambersburg 1794 

Ebert,  John Frederick 1818 

Ebert,  Martin    .    .    • York 1807 

Ebert New  York 1762 


INDEX  IV.  611 

Name.  Place.  Year. 

EGOLF,  Jos Carlisle 1808 

Ehrle Jonestown L817 

ElCHELBERGHR Hagerstown 1817 

ElSTER,  GEORGE Ly ken's  Valley 1821 

ELSER,  PETER Warwick 1814,1816 

Embich,  Jacob Lebanon  ..   .  .1806,1809,1817 

EMIG,  Carl York  Co 1813 

Emmerich,  Jacob •  .  .  Manheim,  Berks  Co 1808 

Emmerich,  Jos Porks  Twp. .   .    ■ 1820 

EMMINGER,  AND Carlisle 1812,1819 

Enderlein Lyken's  Valley L810 

EnDRESS.JoH Lebanon 1820 

Engel,  Frederick German  town 1750 

Engel,  John Germantown 17t;3 

ENGELBRECHT Germantown 1817 

Engelhardt Mifflin  Co 1819 

Ernst,  J.  Nic Kutztown 1812 

EYE,  Michael Germantown 1748 

Ever,  Joh Middleburg 1813 

EYSTER New  Lisbon 1816 

TpASSNACHT,  JOH Middletown,  Md 1798 

-1-     Felde,  Ernst Germantown 1821 

Fessler,  Joh Frederick 1820 

Filbert,  Peter Reading 1793 

Filbert Nordkiil 1809 

Filbert Pottegrove 1810 

Fischer,  Jacob Tulpehocken 1763 

Fleck,  Conrad Sinking  Valley 1821 

Fleischer,  Andreas New  Holland 1814 

Flohr,  Valentine Gettysburg 1821 

Fox,  Thomas Hummelstown 1821 

Frey,  Eph Madison  Co.,  Va.  .    .    1819,  1820 

Frey,  Joh Germantown 1805 

Prey Chambersburg 1815 

Freytag Pikeland 1818 

Fricke Philadelphia 1816 

Friess Wrightsville 1817 

Fritz,  Fr'iedr Reading lsll< 

Flchs,  Joh New  Hanover 1813 

«       J««       Centerville 1821 

GAERTNER,  P York 1801 
Galentin,  Jacob Warwick 18L0 

Gallman,  Heinrich Middletown 1800 

GANER Hamilton 1*1  o 

GEBHARDT,  JOH Somerset 1806 

GEIGER.C Fischer's  Creek 1811 

Geiser, Taneytown 1817 

GEINMER,  FRIEDR Easton      180L 

Gel  wicks,  Carl Hageretown ls<»0 

Gelwicks,  Friedr Taneytown 1819 

Gelwicks,  George Frederick 1819 

GELWICKS,  NlCOLAUS Hanover 1806 

GEMER Huntingdon 1810 

GerbER,  CH Manchester      ....     •   .    .  1820 

Gerbering,  Philip Fonestown 1820 

Gbyer,  Andreas Philadelphia 1808 

Gilbert,  Anton Philadelphia 1748 

Gilbert,  Bernhardt Frederick 1804 


612  INDEX  IV. 

Name.  Place.  Tear. 

Gilbert,  Bernhardt Gettysburg, 1819 

Gilbert,  Heinrich New  Hanover 1793 

''  "  Lebanon 1799 

Gilbert,  Jacob Bender's  Church 1812 

Gillman,  Adolph Germantown 1763 

Goering,  Jacob Goschenhoppen 1804 

Graeber,  Adam •    ...  York 1803 

Graeber  (Kraeber),  Joh Carlisle  ....  1800,  1815,  1816 

Graef,  Caspar Philadelphia 1750 

Graf,  Andreas Tulpehocken 1820 

Gressman,  A Indianfield 1811 

Grim,  Peter New  York 1762 

Groefle,  George Germantown 1795 

Gross,  Heinrich Lancaster 1794 

Gross,  Mihcael Lancaster 1748 

Grothausen,  John Germantown 1748 

XTAAK Tulpehocken 1815 

J-L    Haal  (Hall) Elizabethtown  ....  1818, 1819 

Haas,  Conrad Philadelphia,1799,1800, 1811, 1813 

Haas,  Jerome Providence 1748 

Hacker,  George Germantown 1804 

Haffner,  Joh Greencastle 1806 

Hahn,  George FissePs 1806 

Hakky,  Christian Hagerstown 1796 

Halman,  Heinrich Whitpain 1813 

Hammer  ...    • Hagerstown 1816 

Hammer Schuylkill  Co 1816 

Haner,  N Allen  Twp 1811 

Haner • Pennsborongh 1818 

Hartman,  Michael 1814 

Haster,  Joh Tulpehocken 1812 

Haupt,  Heinrich Williams  Twp 1795 

Hauser Northampton 1816 

Hay  (Hew),  Joh York 1796,1810,1820 

Heck,  Joh Chambersburg 1800 

Hecker,  D Lewisburg 1811 

Heckman,  Adam Northampton  Co 1813 

Hehns,  Jacob Chambersburg 1805 

Heilig Germantown 1810 

Heilman,  Anton Providence  ...    •  .   .   .   .  1748 

Heisle,  Dr.  Friedr Frederick  .    .    .  1812,  1813,  1815 

Heist,  Heinrich New  Hanover 1804 

Heist,  Thomas Winchester 1806 

Heist Whitpain 1816 

Heller,  Friedr Heading 1804 

Helms Kutztown 1816 

Henger,  Friedr Augusta  Co.,  Va 1806 

Henkel,  see  Hinckel  and  Hinkel    .   .   . 

Henzel,  Wilhelm Lancaster 1819,1820 

Heppe Marietta 1815 

Herre,  David Hagerstown 1812 

Herrman,  Michael Whitpain 1814 

Herter Aaronsburg 1816 

Hetzel,  Jacob 1807 

Hetzler,  Andreas Woodbury 1807 

Hill,  Jacob Kutztown 1820 

Hiltebrand,  Conrad Hagerstown 1820 

Hinckel,  Solomon New  Market 1806 

Hinkel,  Anton  .   .   .  • Germantown    ....  1748, 1750 


INDEX  IV.  613 

Name.  Place.  Yeab. 

Hinkel,  Anton Hanover •    .  1808 

Hoeckley  (Hekxe),  Friedr l'biladelphia,  1800,1807, 1811, 1816 

lit ikman,  Daniel Baltimore 1812 

Hui  man,  Heinrich Chainbersburg 1806 

HOFMAN,  JURG Uermantown 1750 

Hoff,  George Lancaster 1793,  1794 

Hoffman,  Conrad Lebanon  ....  1797,  1802,  1813 

Holstein,  Leonhard Tulpebocken 1750 

Horn,  Abraham Easton 1802,  1816 

Horn,  Friedr York 1804 

HORN,  Philip Baltimore 1808 

Huber,  Adam Manchester 1812,1813 

Huber,  Michael Hanover  Twp 1804 

HUBELE,  Bernhard Lancaster 1748 

Hubly,  Bernhard Lancaster 1793,  1794 

HUBLY,  MICHAEL Cbambersburg 1820 

HUMMERICH Carlisle, 1818 

Hitter,  C.J Easton 1819 

TMBODEN,  J Lebanon 1801 

-1-      I.mmel,  JoH Tnlpehocken 1748 

Immel,  Leonhardt Tulpebocken 1799 

JAEGER Trappe 1817 

u     Jans  (Jows),  Georg Harrisburg 1808 

Johnston,  Wilhelm York 1821 

Joseph,  Joh 1812 

Juno,  Henrich •  .  Hanover  Twp 1808 

JUNGKBN Springfield 1816 

Jurger,  Jurg New  Hanover  ....  1748,  1762 

T7"AMMERER,  HENRY Philadelphia    ....  1793,  1794 

J-^-     Kanninb,  Anthony Lebanon 1805 

Kayser York  Co 1815 

Kehler,  Christopher Bloomsburg 1819 

Keiner,  Michael Mt.  Bethel 1813 

Keller,  Christopher 1807 

Keller,  Jacob Greencastle 1812 

Keller,  Joh Springfield 1812 

Keller,  Peter Harrisburg 1819 

Kepele Philadelphia 1750 

Kepner,  Andreas     New  Hanover 1748 

KEPNER       Beading 1817 

Kerchner,  Daniel Pinegrove 1814 

Kkkr,  Thomas Upper  Milford 1750 

Kesselring,  Ludwig Taneytown  1803,  1807,  1812,  1815 

Kkssler,  George Middleburg 1806 

Kessler,  Peter Middleburg 1814 

Keyser Belinsgrove 1815 

Kim  er,  Adam Cumberland  Do.  .   .   .1813,1817 

Kns Baltimore 1810 

Kielmer,  J.  N Tnlpehocken 1800 

Kirschman Abbotatown 1809 

Kissecker Greene  Twp 1818 

KlSSBNGER,  P York 1811 

Klbes     Buffalo  Valley 1817 

Klecknbr,  Philip kllentown 1813 

Klein,  Christian Middleburg 1812 

Klein,  Michael Schaefertown 1812 

Klein,  Philip Lancaster 1794 


614  INDEX   IV. 

Name.  Place.  Year. 

Klein,  Philip Macungie 1809, 1812 

Kleinfelder York  Co 1817 

Kleppinger Lehigh 1818 

Knoeple,  Melchior Indianfield  and  Saucon     .   .  1763 

Knoerzer,  Balthasar York 1750 

Koenig,  Friedrich Eastou 1807 

Koenig,  George Lancaster 1820 

Koenig,  Philip Pikeland 1801 

Koleman,  Joh Berlin,  (Somerset  County   .    .  1821 

Koppenheffer McAllister 1817 

Kramer,  Joh Greencastle 1799 

Kraft,  Peter      Philadelphia.    .1798,1799,1801 

Krauss,  Michael Reading 1794 

Krebs,  Georg Philada.    .  1796,  1797,  1805,  1807 

Kreutzer,  Andr Tulpehocken 1763 

Kreutzer,  N Carlisle 1811 

Kroll,  Michael Kutztown 1814 

Krumlein Selinsgrove 1815 

Kugel,  Christian Middletown,  Md  .   .   .  1806, 1815 

Kuhn,  Adam Lancaster  .  1748,  1750,  1760-1763 

Kuhn,  Leonhardt Hagerstown 1804 

Kunckel,  Ch Harrisburg 1818,  1820 

Kunckel Philadelphia 1810 

Kunz,  Jacob Northampton 1814 

Kurtz,  Benjamin Harrisburg 1796,  1817 

Kurtz,  Jacob Hagerstown 1797 

Kurtz     . Lancaster 1818 

T  AHR,  P Lyken's  Valley    .    .   .  1811,  1815 

-Lj    Lang,  Conrad Tulpehocken       1750 

Lang,  Peter Springfield 1815 

Lange,  Joh Philada.    .  1804,  1809,  1812,  1813 

Lauk,  Abraham Tulpehocken 1814 

Ledder,  Jacob York 1805 

Lehman,  Michael McConnelsburg 1821 

Lehr,  Heinrich Philadelphia 1814 

Plainfield 1820 

Leidig,  Adam Cumberland  County  .    .   .   .1810 

Leissenring,  Joh Buffalo 1812 

"  "        Sunbury 1818 

Leitner,  Jacob Earltown 1748 

Leitner York 1816 

Lenkert Lyken's  Valley 1818 

Lenz    .    , Germantown 1817 

Lex,  Peter Philada.    .  1795, 1796,  1805,  1808 

Ley,  Michael Tulpehocken 1796 

Lichtenwalter,  Peter Allentown 1820 

Lindenmuth Maytown 1807 

Lohr       Goschenhoppen 1750 

Luffe Jordan 1817 

"jWTANG,  ADAM Huntingdon 1806 

-LVJ-     Mackenheimer,  Joh Baltimore 1814-1816 

Marsteller,  Frederick Providence 1748 

Marter Carlisle 1809 

Martin Sunbury 1816 

Matter,  George Manchester 1819 

Matter,  Joh Martinburg 1818 

"  «       Sliepardstown 18'-'0 

Mattes Fissel's 1809 


INDEX   IV.  615 

Name.  Place.  Year. 

Matthews Manchester 1817 

Maui.,  BARTHOLOMEW York 1750 

MAYER,  G.  L Lancaster 1821 

MAYER Greencastle 1810 

MAYERLY Kissel's  ]S10 

MenGi  Dewald Greencastle 1800 

MENSCH,  A Hanover L811 

MERKER,  Georg Hanover 17'.'i; 

MERKLE,  Geokg Middlehurg 1808 

MERKLE Trappe 1816 

MERRO Greencastle 1815 

Merz,  Conrad Macungie 1813 

Metzger Buflalo 1817 

Meyer,  Joh Mosellem 1808 

MILLER,  G.  M Paradise 1800 

Mitschel,  George Greencastle 1821 

Moehlig,  Gottfried Forks 1750 

MoehliGjJoh Raritan 1750 

Mohr Selinsgrove 1816 

MOSER,  MICHAEL Lancaster, 

1795-90,  1799,  1800,  1807,  1810 

Moser,  Philip Aaronslmrg 1804 

Moses,  Peter Bloomsburg 1812 

MUELLER,  JOH Lancaster 1803 

Mueller,  Valentine Barren  Hill 1763 

Mueller Cumberland 1818 

MUELLER Mechanic-town 1818 

Muenich,  Georg Aaronsburg 1808 

Muhlenberg,  F.  A Philadelphia 1793,1794 

Muhlenberg, Harriaburg 1817 

"XTAECKER,  CHRIS .    .  Tulpehocken 1750 

Nebal,  John Germantown 1763 

Nees,  Jacob Solomon's  Church,  Va.     .    .  1806 

Nees  (Nehs), Manchester 1815,  1818 

Nees York 1818 

Neu,  Adam Berlin 1796 

Neuman,  Philip Pottsgrove 1812 

New  (Ney) Hagerstown 1S09,  1810 

Noll Taneytown 1809 

QBERDORF Wrighterille 1815 

^     OEFF,  Jacob New  Jersey 1762 

Oehlers,  George Rockingham,  Va 1821 

ONRICH Manhe.m,  Berks  Co.  .    .        .  1809 

Opp  (Obb^,  Jacob York 1812,  1815 

Opp,  Michael      Gaston 1804 

Opp.  Valentine Springfield 1S08 

Oswald,  Joh Philadelphia 1750 

Otto Reading 1816 

Ox,  Matthew Upper  Milford 1748 

TDERRING,  PETER Germantown 1811,1816 

-*-       l*i 1 1 i.i i*i*i ,  JOH Reading 1796 

Pickel,  Balthasar Raritan 1750 

Pickel,  Jacob New  Goechenhoppen  ....  1798 

'i,  VAi [ndianfield  andSauoon  .   .   ■  1768 

Prinz,  George Hacksbill 1800 

Probst Bloomaburg 1816 

"        Catawiasa 1818 


616  INDEX  IV. 

Name.  Place.  Yeah. 

RABENS,  CHRIS • Germantown 1750 
Barren  Hill 1763 

Rabolt,  Jacob Reading 1763 

Rahn,  Gkorge Philadelphia 1808 

Rau,  G Whitehall 1811 

Raub,  Peter Springfield 1820 

Rauh,  D Eastou 1811 

Raup,  J.  G Forks 1750 

Rausk,  Wilhelm Philadelphia 1750 

Reder •   •   * Tulpehocken 1816 

Reed,  J.  A Tulpehocken 1813 

Reger,  Adam Middleburg 1802 

Reichert,  Joh New  Hanover 1802 

Reid,  Joh Pinegrove 1813 

Reifschneider,  Sebastian New  Hanover  •••....  1794 

Reinecker,  Conrad Staunton,  Va 1800 

Reinoehl,  Conrad Lebanon . 1796,  1814 

Reinoehl,  George •   ■  Lebanon 1800 

REIS Cumberland,  Md 1809 

Reiss  (Reist) Mifflin 1816,  1818 

Reiter,  Michael Goschenhoppen 1812 

Rener,  Benj Pikeland 1820 

Rentschler Kutztown 1817 

Reppert Baltimore 1818 

Rex,  Samuel Warwick 1811,  1821 

"  "  Schaefertown 1813 

Reydt 1815 

Reyer Goschenhoppen 1750 

Ries,  And Westminster 1819 

Riess York  Co 1815 

Ringwalt,  Jacob New  Holland  .......  1807 

Ritsch,  Martin Carlisle 1799 

Ritscher,  A •  Lebanon 1811 

Ritter,  Caspar Williams  Twp.     .    .    .    1800,  1801 

"  "  Hanover  Twp 1802 

Ritter,  Heinrich Upper  Milford 1748 

Roeller,  Joh Shenandoah 1793 

Rolofson,  Laurenz Raritan 1750 

Romig,  Christian Pottstown 1821 

Roth Forks 1817 

Rothbaust  (Rothbautsch),  Joh Chambersburg  .    .    .    .1812,1821 

Ruch,  Jacob Greensburg •  1806 

Rudesiehl,  Melchor Lancaster 1799 

Ri'iiL,  Georg Dover 1797 

Ruhl,  Joh Fissel's 1805 

Q  AUERWEIN,  PETER Baltimore 1801, 1809 

^     Schaadt,  F.  J Culpepper 1806 

Schaefer,  Adam Monongalia  Co.,  W.  Va.  .    .1806 

Sciiaefer,  Jacob Mavtown 1808 

"  "         Tulpehocken 1814 

Schaefer Loudon  Co.,  Va 1815 

Schaffer Sinking  Valley 1818 

SCHALb,  Peter Plainfield 1808 

Schantz,  Jacob Whitehall 1810 

"  "      Tulpehocken 1814 

Scharrets,  Friedr Carlisle 1821 

Schaum,  Benj Lancaster 1812 

Scheetzer,  Georg Lebanon 1807 

Schell Maytown 1810 


INDEX  IV.  617 

Name.  Place.  Year. 

SCHBNK Bloornsburg 1817 

Schindel  (Schindele),  Jacob Lancaster.   .   .   .1808,1809,1813 

SCHINDEL Greencastle 1809 

SCHINICK Baltimore 1811 

SCHIPMAN Eiiston 1809 

Sciilegel Hanover 1809 

Schleydorn Philadelphia 1750 

SCHLONEKER,  Michael Pikeland 1805 

SCHMEIR,  JACOB Macungie 1819 

Schmid,  Christian Indianfield 1802 

Schmidt,  F Reading 1811,1816 

Schmidt,  Heinrich Greencastle 1819 

Schmidt,  Joh Middletown 1812 

Schmidt.  1.  W Snnbury 1820 

Schmidt Mt.  Bethel    ........  1816 

Schneider,  Christian Germantown 1793 

Schneider,  D Fissel's 1811 

Schneider,  Joh Chambersburg     .    .   .   .   .   .  1807 

Schneider Goschenhoppen    .  .  .1750,1816 

Schnerr Huntingdon 1809 

Schoch Harrisburg 1809 

SCHOLL,  Ph Chambersbnrg 1803 

Schorr,  Joh Baltimore 1819 

Schott,  George Lebanon 1812 

Schott,  Peter Harrisburg 1805 

Schrecber,  Conrad Earltown 1763 

Sciireyak,  Michael Lancaster 1748 

Schroeder,  Jacob Pottsgrove 1813 

Schubmann,  Jacob Karitan 1-50 

Schultz,  John Earltown 1763 

Schulz Carlisle 1817 

Schuman Hagerstown 1818 

Schutz,  Jacob Taneytown 1806 

Schwab,  John Lancaster 1760 

Schwartz,  Carl Baltimore 179o 

Schwartz,  Conrad York  Co 1807 

Schwartz,  H Middleburg 1811 

SCHWARZ,  Martin Germantown 1.50 

Schweitzer,  Peter New  Holland 1802 

Schwexg.J Pottsgrove 1811 

SCHWEYER.  NicoLAUS Taneytown 180o 

Seckel Philadelphia 1/40 

SEGER  New  Holland 1816 

Sell,  G.    .  !  . L°hiU  (?) 18n 

SHOCK Middleburg 1810 

Siegfried,  Heinrich J8^ 

Singer,  Caspar Lancaster 1/M 

Siegman,  Bernhard Washington  Co 181J 

SLECHER,   LUDWIG Fayette  Co 1804 

SOMMER,  MATTHEW Barren  Hill 1/M 

Spang,  Jacob Tulpehocken 1801 

SPBNGENBERG Allentown 1810 

Spengler,  Christian - •  •  •  •  •  •   °J| 

Stahl,  Jacob Lancaster    .  .  .1/98,1806,180/ 

Stauch,  Andreas Hover  .   .  . 17WJ 

Si  auch,  Samuel New  Lisbon,  0 1M- 

Stecker Easton  . 1810 

SteIGEI Flizaheth    I'uruace     .    •    •    .  1/6J 

Stein,  Danibi Harrisburg    .   .   ■  'vJJJJJSl 

Stichter,  Peter Leading  ....  1811-1814, 18-U 


618  INDEX  IV. 

Name.  Place.  Yeab. 

Stein,  Joh Pinegrove  Twp.  .   .   .  1805,  1817 

"         "       Whitpain •    .    .  1S12 

"         "        Berks  County 1820 

Stein,  Ludwig Lancaster 1748 

Steiner,  Friedrich      Buffalo 1813 

Stoeber  (Stoever  ?),  Joh Lebanon 1808 

Streber,  Nicolaus Martinsburg 1797 

Strein,  M.  W Gettysburg 1820 

Stroh,  Jacob Greensburg 1798 

Stroh,  Joh Jonestown 1812 

Stueber,  George Mechanicsburg 1820 

Stupp,  Leonhard Tulpehocken 1819 

Sturtzman,  Heinrich Ft.  Cumberland 180(5 

"  "  Hagerstown 1807 

Surmer,  Thomas Philadelphia 1750 

Sultzer,  Peter Frederick 1806 

T<IMANUS,  JACOB      Indianfield,  Saucon    ....  1763 

±     Traxel,  David McConellsburg 1821 

Trenkel,  Christian Lancaster 1748 

Troellinger,  Gabriel Cohensy 1750 

Trostel,  Wilhelm Abbottstown 1820 

Trumbauer,  Joh Falkner  Swamp 1820 

TTHLER,  CHRISTOPHER Lebanon 1795 

^      Umbenhauer Nordkill 1810 

Uz Madison  County,  Va  .    .    .    .  1817 

T7ACKERODT,  ADAM Raritan 1750 

V       Vigera,  J.  F Philadelphia 1750 

WAEHLEY,  MICHAEL Whitehall 1812 
Wagner,  J.  L Philadelphia -1804 

Wagner,  Jos Huntingdon    .   , 1813 

Wagner,  Wilhelm East  Buffalo 1821 

Walborn,  Martin        Tulpehocken 1798,1817 

Waldman,  Valentine Allentown 1793 

Walter,  Michael      New  Hanover 1763 

Walter Bender's  Church 1810 

Walter Middleburg 1809 

Walter Selinsgrove 1817 

Wambold,  Frederick Indianfield  and  Saucon     .   .  1763 

Wartman,  Matthias New  Hanover 1794 

Wartman,  Simon Bloomsburg 1813 

Wartman Swamp  Church 1816 

Weber,  Adam Philadelphia 1749 

Weid Macungie 1816 

Weidler,  Samuel Leacock 1819 

Weinland,  Ludwig Culpepper 1793 

Weis,  Joh Hagerstown 1802 

Weiser,  Martin York 1798 

Weiser,  Peter Reading 1760 

Weiser,  Samuel Reading 1762 

Wenss Mifflin  Co 1817 

Weiss,  Adam Dauphin  Co 1806 

Weiss,  George Martinsburg 1806 

Wind,  P Macungie 1811 

Winters,  Joh New  Holland 1808 

Witman Philadelphia 1815 

Wolfle, ...  Maytown 1809 


INDEX   IV.  619 

Namk.  Plaoi.  Year. 

Wolfe,  Joh Elizabeth  Twp 1812 

Wohlfarth,  Philip 1800 

Wolpper,  George Philadelphia 1803 

Woltz,  D.  P Hageretown 1806 

WORMLEY,  Jacob Carlisle 18l'0 

WUNDERLICH Cumberland  Co.  .    .    .  1815,   1818 

"yAISER,  ENGLEHART, Baltimore 1797 

-*-       Verger Pottsgrove 1818 

/ELL,  GEORG Plainfield 1812 

Ziegler Harrisburg 181<> 

ZlMMERMANN,  HEINRICH MiiHin 1821 


DATE  DUE 


DATE  DUE 


Demco,  Inc.  38-293 


